
Old Dominion Hounds were first established in 1924 and formerly recognized in 1925. Then the hunt club’s name was Mr. Larrabee’s Hounds (until 1931). This year in celebration of their 100th anniversary, a wonderful documentary video called “Centennial Celebration: A Century of Sport with the Old Dominion Hounds” has been released.
This video is wonderfully done, showcasing the gorgeous Virginia countryside and how then-current events shaped the history of this stalwart hunt club. It touches on the Great Depression and World War II. Hound breeding is also a focus, most notably the Gorgeous line.
I was most intrigued by the reason for Old Dominion’s unique formal livery – rust breeches (even with scarlet coats). Mrs. Albert Hinckley took over the guidance of the hunt club during World War II and changed the livery to rust breeches due to a shortage of washing machine parts and detergent. Showcasing a woman’s sense of practicality for less laundering. Wonderful!
Betsy Burke Parker’s script is wonderful. When she describes what foxhunting means to people, every word sparked true. I would love to frame those words. Here is an excerpt:
“There is an old saying in the foxhunting world: ‘When they die, foxhunters proceed directly to hell because they’ve already had their heaven on earth.’ The art of foxhunting is not merely a sport, but more nearly a passion than a game. It has become almost a region to many.”

“Centennial Celebration: A Century of Sport with the Old Dominion Hounds” credits: Videography by Anusha Abbasi Gregory / Script by Betsy Burke Parker / Narration and voiceovers by Keith L. O’Brien