Supporters Rally For Future Of Equestrian Events At NL Francis Field

NEW LENOX, IL — Brittany Reardon spent her youth riding and competing horses at Francis Field in New Lenox, and now she's fighting to keep the dream alive for her 3-year-old daughter.

Reardon is heading up the Equine Association of Francis Field, a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring and rejuvenating horse events at the cherished Francis Road property. A New Lenox historical landmark, the venue's structures have fallen into disrepair, threatening the future of equine events, specifically.

Reardon can't stand to see the focal point of so many of her childhood memories slip away, and she hopes to keep a place for young riders to create their own.

"There are so many different youth activities in New Lenox, but none dedicated to equestrians," Reardon said. "There are only a handful of places like this left in Illinois, and no others in Will County. Despite our area being home to a huge demographic of horse owners we have nearly run out of facilities to enjoy the camaraderie of these animals.

"Additionally, the barn and field house are registered with the historical society. We have every reason to do our best to preserve it!"

The land was donated by the Francis family nearly 60 years ago. Fred Francis, who served as New Lenox Township supervisor for nearly 30 years before his death in 1953, had a passion for 4-H,—Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. The youth organization encourages hands-on learning and growth for kids and teens in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement in a positive environment, according to its website. Francis sponsored and encouraged club activities, and after his death a portion of his farm was donated for youth activities.

Currently, the property hosts a range of activities including horse shows, dog training classes, dog shows, youth sports and other events in the riding arena, barns and field house. The barn has deteriorated with age, necessitating repairs to keep it available for use. The Equine Association has been fundraising online and hosting special events to inspire support for the beloved venue. A $20,000 goal is set for repairs beginning with fixing old posts in the barn, upgrading footing in the arenas, and giving the facility an overall facelift.

"Being able to secure the future of the Francis Field for the next generation of equestrians would mean the world to me," Reardon said.

The association and Francis Field Youth Foundation will host a Spring Clean-up Event at the property, 801 E. Francis Rd., on Saturday, April 6 beginning at 10 a.m. Volunteers hope to fix potholes in the driveway and parking areas, paint jumps and jump poles, get the arenas ready for shows, trim trees and bushes. They also plan to fix bleachers, benches and fence boards.

It's a labor of love and elbow grease that will be well worth it for Reardon and other supporters.

"I have been showing horses at the field since I was old enough to ride!" Reardon told Patch. "It is the only horse show venue like it left in Will County where your average 'back yard' horse owner can still show (and win!) alongside the bigger show barns."

The facility creates a "relaxed, family atmosphere," Reardon said, giving kids a place to compete without nerves getting the best of them. The association also plans to host social events at the property, strengthening the community of equine enthusiasts.

"The hope is to provide a great place for equestrians of all ages, agricultural, and 4h groups to come and practice their skills," Reardon said.

"... My ultimate vision is for the field to be fixed up into a safe, clean, and beautiful venue for kids, like my daughter, to enjoy showing horses at for decades to come."

Anyone interested in participating in the Spring Clean-Up event should contact Reardon at (773)552-4691. For more information on the field, equine association, youth foundation and more, visit their website.