VIDEO: Demolition Day 'Bitter-Sweet' For Lakewood Stables
The Lakewood 'family' watches as its nearly 100-year-old horse ranch is torn down to make way for big transformation.
They fought back tears one minute as they recalled memories shared in their old dilapidated horse barns, but then spoke excitedly about the plans for the future.
The owners and staff of Lakewood Stables' gathered with riders and volunteers, both past and present, on the Eagle Avenue property Wednesday to take one last look at the horse ranch that had been like a second home to all of them for many years.
They toured the old, worn-down facilities, snatching up what mementos they could find, watched as the remaining horses were escorted to their temporary stalls and stood in awe as a large crane ripped the old buildings to shreds.
While doing so they reflected on the loss of the historic place but looked forward to the new state-of-the-art, year-round riding facility they would soon gain.
In this case, destruction is just the beginning of a new chapter for one of West Hempstead's oldest landmarks and the sole surviving horse ranch in the Town of Hempstead.
Watch Patch's video report above.
Erin M.
6:13 pm on Thursday, April 21, 2011
I've been riding at Lakewood stables for four years. It's my home away from home. I love going there and being around the horses. The conditions of the barns weren't in good shape so I'm so excited to finally get the new barns and the indoor arena so we can ride all year round. I volunteer at Lakewood whenever I have time. I've made great friends there. The staff and other volunteers are like family to me.
kim palermo
10:13 pm on Saturday, April 30, 2011
My daughter just started riding at Lakewood Stables last summer. We immediately felt the warmth and love from the staff and horses and look forward to coming back and enjoying the new facility!
Jeanine Jutt
8:14 pm on Wednesday, May 4, 2011
My friends and I use to ride in the late 70's on weekends whenever we could. The staff were always wonderful and friendly to a bunch of teenagers looking for a fun day. The horses were beautiful and healthy and strong. I have great memories of Lakewood. Good luck with the new facilities. I will be looking into leasing a horse for my daughter this summer, I hope your up and running soon.
Jeanine Jutt