During the final month of 2008, the farrier industry lost two of its best-known members with the passing of Eddie Watson and Reggie Kester, who both succumbed to cancer.

Watson, a member of the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame and mentor and teacher to multiple generations of farriers and equine veterinarians, passed away Dec. 20. He was 81. Kester, owner/operator of the Oklahoma State Horseshoeing School in Ardmore, Okla., passed away Dec. 30. He was 64.

EDGAR L. WATSON, CJF

Tribute To A Legend

Eddie Watson set an extraordinary example for farriers worldwide to follow: “Be the best you can be.” His knowledge, insight and practicality regarding farriery were infamous, yet his methods were basic and simplistic. Eddie was a mentor, not only to farriers, but also to many veterinarians as well. He was certainly at the top of my list. I have asked 3 of my veterinary colleagues who worked closely with Eddie over the years to join me in writing a few words about their relationship with this exceptional man.

We, in both the veterinary profession and the farrier profession are all aware of Eddie Watson’s expertise in farriery. But he was also an accomplished horseman, blessed with an ability to teach and the ability to communicate. Individually, each one of these qualities could be considered legendary, but when you find a man that excels in all these qualities, that person should be considered a legend.

I last visited Eddie in August and during these visits, our conversation…