Saddle up: Learn about the history and present condition of the Hawaiian horse

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Courtesy of DR. BILLY BERGIN/From "The Hawaiian Horse Mules on a Waipio trail.
Courtesy of DR. BILLY BERGIN/From “The Hawaiian Horse Mules on a Waipio trail.
Photo by JEAN COTE Dr. Billy Bergin
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Renowned local veterinarian and author Dr. Billy Bergin comes to the Lyman Museum next week to review the history of the Hawaiian horse, including the descendants of those animals brought from California to Hawaii with the caballeros, who would teach the Hawaiians a new trade and introduce them to the trappings of the cowboy.

Bergin also will present a DNA analysis of feral horses and donkeys in the islands, and talk about the mystery disease affecting feral horses in Waipio Valley and the efforts to cure and prevent it.

Don’t miss this powerhouse presentation, which reaffirms the position of the horse in Hawaii’s rich heritage.

Presentations are slated for 7 p.m. Monday (Oct. 1) and 3 p.m. Tuesday (Oct. 2). Cost is $3, or free for museum members.

The Lyman Museum is located at 276 Haili St. in Hilo and is open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

For more information, call 935-5021 or visit www.lymanmuseum.org.