Farm History

Haven Valley Farm dates back to the 1800's when the original structures on the property were constructed, including part of the main house, as well as, the main horse barn still used today. The architecture of the main barn is of the classic prairie style popularized on the American landscape during the later part of the nineteenth century. It's red and white finishing, interior support beams with wooden nails, and airy hayloft allude to its rich history of serving as a horse farm.

In the mid 1900's Haven Valley Farm was home to world renowned shetland show ponies, including Captain Topper. Captain Topper, a shetland pony stallion, won numerous show awards and was recognized world wide. During this period an open house was held in his honor at the farm to advocate the Shetland breed; those in attendance included professors from Michigan State University, the head of equine surgery at MSU, the head of the Animal Husbandry department at MSU, and the Agricultural Attaché of the British Embassy in Washington D.C.

Following the Captain Topper era the farm was sold and its use as a horse farm continued. When the Shetlands moved out, thoroughbreds moved in for the next decade or so. During this time the farm was used as a thoroughbred breeding farm, producing thoroughbreds for a variety of disciplines, including racing.

In 1988 Marian and William Hutchins bought Haven Valley Farm, and have since continued its legacy of producing, training, and showing exceptional horses. Haven Valley Farm has now bred three generations of successful Dutch-warmblood horses. The principle equestrian disciplines of the farm include dressage and three-day eventing.