Stanford to take over horse center, Red Barn Stanford to take over horse center, Red Barn (August 04, 2004)

After 20 years, Stanford University will resume management of its Equestrian Center and Red Barn on September 1.

For the past two decades, the center has been leased to Equestrian Associates as a public boarding stable. The lease expires August 31.

Stanford plans to expand equestrian services and education for students and continue to serve private boarders, said university Provost John Etchemendy.

Stanford also plans to renovate the center, which will be under the auspices of the Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation.

The Equestrian Center complex is all that remains of university founder Leland Stanford's extensive Palo Alto Stock Farm.

A statue of Stanford's most famous stallion, Electioneer, stands in front of the Red Barn, a gift from the L.W. "Bill" Lane family. Mr. Lane, a resident of Portola Valley, led a campaign to restore the historic Red Barn 20 years ago, when university officials discovered the building was literally falling apart.

The annual Red Barn Festival, which Mr. Lane initiated 15 years ago, will be held Saturday, August 21.

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