Fox Hunting at Sycamore Hollow
Montgomery County, MD

Commentary by Mary Sheppard Burton

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Fox hunting at Sycamore Hollow has brought forth incredible experiences and wonderful friendships over a forty-six year span. There have been moments of reverence and moments of sorrow, but those of inspiration, joy and zest for life are the moments to be treasured and most frequently remembered.
 
Sam Stiles' Hunt is on the left of Sycamore Hollow. Goshen Hunt is on the right, in the big meadow. Sam's hounds were lemon and white. Goshen hounds were of a Virginia strain that tongue only when the fox is scented. In the center of my memories is the beautiful old pegged barn dated 1838 and built by R.H., a signature on one of the supporting beams.
 
Sheppard, our son, is seen carrying the fox. It seems Sally Carl had run over the fox with her car and killed it. "Shep" dismounted, grabbed the fox by the tail and proudly rode up to the Master of the Hunt to show him what he had!
 
Our daughter, Mary Ellen, on side saddle, is graciously riding ahead of Sheppard. In front of Mary Ellen is her daughter, Meghan. Our oldest daughters, Nancy and Susie, were invited to "go hunting" with Sam's hunt. Neither of these city girls was much of a horsewoman. After becoming lost in their own woods, the two "retired" at the tender ages of ten and twelve.

"Footsteps on History: Tell Me 'Bout Series"
Family Portraits by Mary Sheppard Burton. Undated

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