The Pony of the Americas Club, Inc.,
was founded in 1954 by a Mason City, Iowa, attorney,
by the name of Les Boomhower. He saw a need for a “using
type” pony for youth. His vision was to create
a child’s size mount that was calm, intelligent,
versatile, and sturdy enough to last all day. Les thought
the Appaloosa type color would make them really stand
out, and thus the POA breed was born.
Les and other founding members established the
POAC registry and started inspecting and registering
breeding stock. Registration #1 went to Les’ stallion,
Black Hand. The POAC was incorporated as a non-profit
corporation. Its early members worked diligently
to spread the word about this new “Using Pony
for Youth”, the POA!
From these humble beginnings in the Iowa heartland,
the POAC, Inc. has evolved into one of the major
pony breeds in the country. The club’s activities
are very family oriented. While the focus remains
on the youth, there are now programs for all ages
to participate in. POAs are truly an equine the entire
family can enjoy.
The ponies have evolved as well. Now numbering
over 50,000 registrations, POAs no longer have the “pony” look
or movement. With an infusion of some of the finest
bloodlines that the Quarter Horse and Appaloosa breeds
have to offer, the modern POA looks and moves like
their larger counterparts. Measuring up to 14 hands,
they are the complete package for any horse lover.
Our members are proud of our heritage, and excited
about our future. If wholesome, family fun with equines
is what you are looking for, check out the POAC.
Join us, and see what horse folks are buzzing about.
The POA is a true American original!
Jackie Guthrie
POAC, Inc. President |
Pony Of The Americas Club, Inc.