“People think that stories are shaped by people. In fact, it's the other way around.” – Terry Pratchett

Editor's note: Seeing the remnants of a curved board fence along with an unusual barn in Middletown, Connecticut, led to a rare and wonderful privilege – listening to a life well lived and stories about racing, a long-lasting marriage and the richness of family. Stories worth remembering and sharing about life. This story, first published Oct. 6, 2010, is a story about local history intertwined with rich details worth sharing since the race track has vanished under a housing development, the barn has changed hands (but is still operating as a horse stable), and people interviewed are gone. But not ever forgotten. Because this story was shared, the window into the past and the heartfelt details of a courting couple will allow all who read it to see the view.

“Courteous treatment will make a customer a walking advertisement.”

James Cash Penney, Founder J.C. Penney Stores

This copyrighted original story has been archived offline. Contact the editor or publisher for access, permission to reprint in any form, and/or licensing fees.