The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum was created by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), based in Amarillo, Texas. Ground breaking construction of the Hall of Fame Museum began in 1989. The distinction is earned by people and horses who have contributed to the growth of the American Quarter Horse and "have been outstanding over a period of years in a variety of categories". In 1982, Bob Denhardt and Ernest Browning were the first individuals to receive the honor of being inducted into the AQHA Hall of Fame. In 1989, Wimpy P-1, King P-234, Leo and Three Bars were the first horses inducted into the AQHA Hall of Fame.

Museum

The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum features photographs of honorees and paintings of American Quarter Horses famous in the bloodlines of current champions. Many of the paintings are by the western artist Orren Mixer. There are interactive exhibits about horse anatomy, horse riding and disciplines of the American Quarter Horse. Other displays include artifacts, riding and cowboy attire, tack, photos and ribbons and memorabilia about inductees.

Hall of Fame nominations

To be considered by the Hall of Fame, anyone may nominate either people or horses to be considered. Nominations from the membership are due by November 1. They are then screened and sent to the Hall of Fame committee which meets in the following March. Nominations stay active for three years, then must sit out for three years before being considered again. People being considered may be alive or deceased, but horses must be deceased.

Horses

List of horses currently inducted in the American Quarter Horse Association's Hall of Fame:

People

This list is incomplete.

Other sources