Collections
Artifact Collections
Since opening in 1978, the International Museum of the Horse has been devoted to collecting and compiling the nation’s largest equine based collection for education and scholarly research.
The artifact collection has grown to over 16,000 objects and photographs devoted to the history of the horse. It encompasses both fine and folk art, as well as natural history, historical tack, trophies from world-renowned athletes, horse-drawn vehicles, photography, and the outdoor sculptures seen throughout the Kentucky Horse Park.
The Museum’s collections are available for scholarly research, reproduction, and institutional loan.
Please email the Curator of Collections for help with these requests.
REPRODUCTION REQUESTS
If you would like to use an image or video held in IMH collections, please request an image request form by contacting the Curator of Collections. The Museum’s fee schedule for these requests will be provided along with the request form. Please allow a minimum of 2 weeks processing time once the form is received at the Museum.
Library & Archives
IMH’s Library & Archives is home to over 5,000 volumes, including over 1,000 rare volumes dating back to the 16th century. The Archives house the collections of Mary Jane Gallaher, Mary Littauer, the Purebred Arabian Trust, and Kent Hollingsworth among others.
We’re sorry! The International Museum of the Horse Library is currently closed for renovations.
The Library & Archives are non-circulating and visits are by appointment only, Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Research services are also available for an hourly fee. The Library holdings are searchable online. Please contact the Curator of Collections to schedule an appointment.
DONATIONS
If you wish to donate an item to the Museum please request a donation form from the Curator of Collections. Once your form is received you will be contacted about your donation. We cannot process donation requests without the donation form. Please allow up to 30 days for a final decision about your donation. We cannot accept donations without prior approval.