The preservation of Canterbury Equestrian Showplace is an inspiring story of grassroots activism, public support, and community involvement. Carly Evans, an Animal Science Major at the University of Florida in 1889, conceived the idea of designing a horse facility that would become the Alachua County Agricultural and Equestrian Center. The Grand Opening Night in 1991 marked the birth of Canterbury Equestrian Showplace, the first dedicated showground in Central Florida. Carly and Alan Evans and Southeast Horse Shows continue to manage the facility, providing recognized quality shows for the booming Dressage community. History and Development
• Canterbury Equestrian Showplace was established in 1991 by Alan and Carlie Evans. • The 212-acre facility was a regional destination for horse enthusiasts, hosting events almost every weekend and attracting riders across the Southeast. • With rapid development in nearby Ocala, Gainesville, and Newberry, large portions of the property were sold to developers, leaving only 36 acres with barns and arenas intact.

“When Canterbury first opened, it was the only dedicated showground in north central Florida. We were here long before places like the Jacksonville Equestrian Center, the Florida Horse Park, and now The World Equestrian Center in Ocala. We helped transform the area’s equestrian scene beyond backyard trail riding, and I’m proud of Canterbury’s role in that growth.”

Threats to Preservation
• Canterbury’s future became uncertain as the property changed ownership multiple times. • Cross-country fences were replaced with residential homes, leaving only 36 acres with barns and arenas intact. • The owner often talked about tearing down the buildings entirely. A Grassroots Movement to Save Canterbury
• Dr. Susan Milbrath, a retired Florida Museum of Natural History curator and lifelong equestrian, decided to take action in 2017. • A group of friends founded Preservation of Alachua County Equestrian Spaces (PACES) to rally support. • An economic impact study highlighted Canterbury’s significant economic contributions, including 51 jobs, $1.45 million in labor income, and $4.43 million in business revenues. Securing the Purchase
• Funds allocated for the fairgrounds and revenue from the Wild Spaces Public Places program—a local tax initiative supporting conservation and park improvements—allowed Alachua County to purchase Canterbury for $3.8 million in 2019. • State grants were also secured to help with renovations and infrastructure improvements. Cost Savings and New Opportunities
• The purchase of Canterbury has resulted in cost savings for the county, as the existing infrastructure and facilities were already in place. • The Alachua County Agricultural and Equestrian Center has been designated as the new site for the county fairgrounds, providing a central hub for equestrian events and activities. Conclusion
• The preservation of Canterbury Equestrian Showplace is a testament to the power of community activism and public support. • The facility continues to provide recognized quality shows for the booming Dressage community, and its future is secure thanks to the efforts of Dr. Susan Milbrath and the Preservation of Alachua County Equestrian Spaces.