South Carolina Region: Horses and Fox Hunting

Tally-Ho! Horses and Fox Hunting in Jane Austen's England

Jane Austen and her contemporaries were familiar with the sport of fox hunting, whether they “rode to hounds” themselves or watched the action from the sidelines. The sport was integral to rural English communities and social interactions and drew participation from all strata of English society. Mounted fox hunting had practical origins—foxes preyed on poultry, sheep, and cattle, so farmers were happy to be rid of them—and evolved over time into a major social and sporting activity. Rich in tradition, the sport continues around the globe, with active hunts in almost every state in the U.S.

Carol Lobdell, a Bluffton resident, has been an equestrian for more than 25 years and is a fox hunter herself. She has ridden with more than a dozen different hunts, including three in England. She will discuss the origins and development of the sport, its meaning and role in English society in the Regency years, and the sport’s activities today.

The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

RSVP to nikkiwdc@gmail.com

Additional information is available from the region's website.