Legacy & History
Mary Jane Parkinson is widely celebrated as one of the most respected authors, historians, and researchers in the Arabian horse industry. Her lifelong devotion to the breed, her meticulous documentation of its history, and her decades of editorial leadership have made her a central figure in preserving the legacy of the Arabian horse in America and abroad.
A Childhood Spark That Became a Lifelong Calling
Mary Jane’s love for Arabian horses began in childhood. She and her sister discovered a photograph of an Arabian horse—captivated instantly by the elegant neck, the proud high-carried tail, and the refined, athletic build that set the breed apart. What began as admiration soon deepened into a fascination, and that fascination blossomed into a lifelong pursuit of knowledge, research, and storytelling.
Even as a young woman, Mary Jane possessed a remarkable ability to focus deeply, to observe details others missed, and to see the beauty and meaning behind pedigrees, historical documents, and old photographs.
Becoming a Sought-After Authority
As her expertise grew, so did her reputation. Breeders, historians, and owners from around the world sought her knowledge—often contacting her for help researching bloodlines, tracing pedigrees, and learning about horses and programs that no longer existed. Mary Jane became known not only for her accuracy but also for her dedication to truth, clarity, and honoring the history of the breed.
Through her writing, she brought forgotten stories to life, giving recognition to breeders, horses, and programs that shaped the foundation of Arabian breeding in the United States.
International Research & Historic Access
Mary Jane’s work took her far beyond the United States. Determined to document the authentic origins and historical movements of the breed, she traveled internationally—sometimes requiring special permissions from government officials and private collections.
Her research journeys included:
- Poland, visiting historic state studs such as Janów Podlaski and Michałów
- Spain, home of the Yeguada Militar
- England and historic Crabbet-influenced breeding programs
- Denmark, Sweden, and other European countries with significant bloodline archives
Mary Jane’s work took her far beyond the United States. Determined to document the authentic origins and historical movements of the breed, she traveled internationally—sometimes requiring special permissions from government officials and private collections.
Editor of Arabian Horse World – A Defining Era
In 1981, Mary Jane Parkinson became the editor of Arabian Horse World, one of the most influential publications in the breed’s history. She served in this role for more than 40 years, guiding the magazine through a period of growth, scholarship, and deeper global engagement.
During her tenure:
- She elevated historical research and pedigree analysis within the magazine.
- She authored and developed the highly respected Foundation Breeder Series, documenting the most influential breeders in the United States.
- She mentored writers, connected with breeders worldwide, and helped preserve countless historical accounts.
Her editorial voice became synonymous with integrity, clarity, and devotion to the breed.
Author of Seminal Works
Mary Jane’s writing includes numerous articles, monographs, historical pieces, and some of the most widely referenced books in the Arabian horse community.
Her landmark publication, The Romance of the Kellogg Ranch: A Celebration of the Kellogg/Cal Poly Pomona Arabian Horses, 1925-2000, stands among the most important works documenting the history of America’s oldest Arabian breeding program. Commissioned by the Cal Poly/Kellogg Ranch—a program recognized for producing generations of national champions—Mary Jane’s book combined deep research with heartfelt storytelling.
Her ability to weave together lineage, history, personality, and legacy has left a lasting imprint on equine literature.
Legacy & Influence
Mary Jane Parkinson’s contributions extend far beyond her publications:
- She preserved records and histories that might otherwise have been lost.
- Her books and articles remain essential references for breeders, scholars, and archivists.
- Through lectures, research, and writing, she helped shape how the Arabian horse’s story is told in America.
- Her work continues to serve as a bridge between generations—connecting today’s enthusiasts to the breeders and horses that built the foundation of the modern Arabian.
To this day, Mary Jane is spoken of with admiration throughout the industry—not only as an author, but as a guardian of history, a passionate researcher, and a woman whose love for the Arabian horse never wavered.