A place in history
Radnor Hunt was founded in Radnor, Pennsylvania in 1883 and is the oldest continuously active fox hunt in the US. A century and a half later, Radnor Hunt has preserved its rich history and vital role in the Main Line region while introducing contemporary flavor to guests, old and new. Radnor Hunt’s legendary landscape is the perfect backdrop for corporate functions, weddings, social events, and intimate gatherings.
Radnor Hunt has been the center of an active and loyal sporting community for Chester County and the greater Philadelphia region. From its inception, the leading families of Philadelphia and the newly popular Main Line enjoyed the hunt. Well known citizens, such as Pennsylvania Railroad titan Alexander Cassatt and James Rawle of the Brill Streetcar manufacturing firm, were among the founding group of sports enthusiasts.
Throughout the end of the 19th and early years of the 20th centuries, the exploits of Radnor Hunt were regularly recounted throughout Philadelphia. The Thanksgiving Day hunt and associated Hunter Trials and Races attracted large crowds of onlookers who would drive their carriages and later their motorcars to the club to enjoy a day of sport.
In the 1930s, led by members including Benjamin Pew and Horace Hare, and with former Rose Tree Hunt member M. Roy Jackson as Master and Huntsman, Radnor Hunt relocated to the Gallagher Farm on Boot Road (now Providence Road) in White Horse, PA. Architect Arthur Meigs designed new facilities, and the Hunt has been at its current location since 1931.
Historic Radnor Hunt Races Courtesy of the 1883 Foundation
First Annual Radnor Hunt Ball Courtesy of the 1883 Foundation
Present Day Radnor Hunt Races Courtesy of the 1883 Foundation
Fox’s Kitchen Recipe Book from Radnor Hunt
Radnor Hunt Today
Radnor Hunt is still an active gathering place for The Radnor Races and Bryn Mawr Hound Show, both over a century old. The Bryn Mawr Hound Show attracts dozens of exhibiting packs and hound enthusiasts from throughout the nation. The Radnor Races remains a top national equestrian event and highlight of the Main Line social season. Since 1980 the event has been known as the “Radnor Race for Open Space,” benefiting randywine Conservancy’s open space and clean water programs.
Radnor Hunt also hosts The Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance, showcasing the finest vintage and unique automobiles, motorcycles, and wheeled carriages in the nation. Proceeds from the event benefit several local non-profit organizations over the years, including Willistown Conservation Trust, Thorncroft Equestrian Center, and local Boy Scout troops.
Let’s make memories together
The Radnor Hunt & Feast Your Eyes team is eager to meet you to plan your special day.