Clydesdales thrive at Oconee County family farm

BISHOP, Ga. - They are among the most revered of all horse breeds, known for their strength, grace, and unique feathered lower legs.  And if you’ve always wanted to learn more about Clydesdales – and get a really good look at them up close -- you might want to gallop on over to an Oconee County family farm.

Classic City Clydesdales is a family-owned operation that specializes in breeding Clydesdale horses.  It all began a decade ago, when Mark and Shannon Martin bought a Clydesdale colt named Sampson and fell in love with the breed. 

Today, the couple breeds and raises the horses on a 200-acre farm in Bishop (located near Athens) which also houses Highland cows, sheep, pigs, chickens, and other animals.  Along with selling Clydesdales for work and show, the Martins welcome visitors to the farm for tours and special riding experiences.  The farm also includes a guest lodge, in which visitors can book overnight stays. 

Farm tours take place Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11:00 a.m., or by appointment.  Tours last about an hour, and cost $20 per person.  Good Day Atlanta’s Paul Milliken spent the morning on a special tour of the farm, learning more about the mission of Classic City Clydesdales and getting up-close-and-person with these beautiful and fascinating animals.