Tom Schwab

Tom started pulling shoes at age fourteen for a well known three-generation Horseshoeing family in CT. Tom's first client was his own mother Ree Schwab who rode horses, ran a boarding facility that included disciplines: English, Western, Barrel Racing, Reining and even Cutting with their own cattle. Everyone was welcome at Ree's stable and would learn to lend a hand. It provided a wonderful sense of community with a safe, wholesome place for neighborhood kids and adults. At age 72! Ree is still riding and WINNING on cutting horses, now at her ranch in FLA.

Tom continues to further his shoeing and blacksmithing education. After moving to Virginia, he became an AFA Certified Farrier and is currently working on his Journeyman Certification. He enjoys attending seminars, clinics, and spending time with other farriers. He also spends his spare time working in a shop Blacksmithing and makes absolutely beautiful household and barn items.

Tom has been complimented many times about his kind way with horses. Not surprising growing up with Ree, he was a naturally gifted rider with quiet hands. Ree's clients would ask Tom to ride the ornery or nervous horses and they would settle down quickly to work. Tom turns bright red when I tell folks his first "ride" at four years old was a miniature Sicilian Donkey named "Duffle"! But hotter, faster horses and a successful career shoeing horses followed with his talents and childhood background.

Tom and I own a small farm in Virginia where they have dogs, a huge organic garden, chickens and a small herd of alpacas raised for fiber.

— Amanda Schwab