This year marks the 20th annual Farriers Week, a time we set aside to celebrate the farriers who have made a difference. We’ve received dozens of thoughtful tributes, and would like to share some of them with you here.

We at American Farriers Journal would also like to thank the many farriers who dedicate their time, effort and skill to the equine industry. We and many others appreciate your hard work and knowledge of the equine foot. Thank you for all that you do.

“In the early ’80s, I beat Al Gore to the punch and ‘discovered’ the internet (known then as ARPANET). In those days, it was a difficult platform to navigate, so I patted myself on the back for being the first farrier on the web. I found a discussion group for ‘horses’ and immediately began to answer questions related to hoof care.

“After a couple of days of waxing eloquent and explaining ‘the way’ that things should be done, I crossed the stupid line one too many times, and a crusty old cowboy, who was equally impressive as a blacksmith and a wordsmith, appeared from nowhere and thumped me on the head.

“Mr. Tom Stovall started schooling me that day and still schools me today. Although my first lesson was in humility, the lessons progressed to gaits and movement, biomechanics, monitoring and adjusting for discipline and environment, forge work and a host of other topics.

“I’m a better farrier for having known Mr. Tom. More importantly…