Lee and Elaine's RV Adventures: Wauchula, Florida

While staying at Peace River Thousand Trails in Wauchula, Florida, we visited the 200-acre ranch where Lippizan stallions are trained by the Herrmann family. The Lipizzan stallion breed was founded in the 16th century for the exclusive use of the Hapsburg Royal Family of Austria. There has never been more than a few hundred in existence at any one time. The Lipizzans would have faced extinction had they not been rescued from the Russian advance during World War II by General George Patton and his troops. Assisting Patton was Colonel Herrmann and his father, Colonel Ottomar Herrmann, Sr. They smuggled the horses from behind enemy lines, riding at night and hiding during the day. The Disney movie, "Miracle of the White Stallions" tells of the Lipizzans' escape. About 1962, the Herrmanns' brought Lipizzan Stallions to their farm in Florida where they train the horses. Training sessions are open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, free of charge. The training show last about an hour and a half. Interestingly, Lipizzans are born dark, either brown, black or grey and usually turn white between ages 6 and 10. A few, however, will remain dark.

Opening ceremony

All four feet off the ground at the same time!

Taking a bow!

Another day, we visited Solomon's Castle in Ona, Florida, where we enjoyed the humor of artist and sculptor, Howard Solomon. He started building his castle in 1972 in the middle of a swamp, using old tin printing plates for the outside walls. Every piece of art and/or sculpture has been created from recycled 'stuff' and had a humorous name and story behind it, although I can't recall them. But, it was an enjoyable day and I'm so glad we went.

Howard Solomon self-portrait

The 'Boat in the Moat' restaurant

I believe he called this 'The Alamosas", his rendering of the Alamo

Swamp land!

Somewhere out in the country near Solomon's Castle

Our next big adventure was an airboat ride with friends, Len and Gloria, on Arbuckle Creek in Sebring, Florida. The ride lasted 1 1/2 hours and was well worth the $45 per person charge. We had wanted to do the airboat ride in the Everglades but after some research it didn't seem feasible with the plans we had made, basically way to far from where we were staying. Another awesome day!

Not knowing what to expect, Gloria and I decided to boost our courage before the ride!

Our boat and our guide

Arbuckle Creek

Near the entrance to Lake Istokpoga. It was a cool day so instead of going out on the lake, we headed up Arbuckle Creek. We did see a few alligators and a lot of birds. It was amazing to see all the plant life in the water and we just skimmed over it! I had to keep reminding myself there was no propeller in the water to get bogged down.