Our Story
The Roots of Healing: A Journey from Europe to Banbury Cross
In the cobblestone streets of post-war Europe, a quiet revolution was underway. Amidst the rubble, a few visionary therapists discovered an ancient ally in the quest for healing: the horse. In the 1940s, they harnessed the gentle, rhythmic movement of these majestic creatures, mirroring the motion of human walking. What they unearthed was profound—a therapeutic symphony where muscle relaxation danced with muscle tone, coordination embraced mobility, and flexibility flourished. Yet, beyond the physical, they witnessed a stirring of the spirit, as the discipline and focus required to ride unfurled a tapestry of mental and emotional well-being. Riding, they realized, was not just therapy for the body—it was therapy for the soul. It's upon these timeless principles that Banbury Cross Therapeutic Equestrian Center was born.
In 1991, Ralph and Carol Curtis laid the foundation for a sanctuary of healing. Though the center has traversed different landscapes and leadership, the spirit of their mission endures, reaching new riders with each passing session. Nestled in the heart of Oxford/Metamora, Michigan—a land steeped in equine lore and home to the Metamora Hunt—Banbury Cross opens its gates to all who seek solace and transformation.
As a proud member of PATH International, Banbury Cross pioneers initiatives with Oxford, Lake Orion, and Lapeer Community Schools' special education programs. Selected by the prestigious Wounded Warrior Project, we offer a haven where active and retired veterans find respite, free of charge. Teaming up with Lapeer County Mental Health, we've embraced the transformative power of equine-assisted psychotherapy.
Even as our programs flourish and evolve, our gaze remains fixed on the horizon of need. We listen intently to the whispers of our participants and the echoes of our community, ever committed to forging pathways of healing and hope.
Rider Stories
"What impact has Banbury Cross Therapeutic Equestrian Center made on my family?For me, I've learned how to handle myself around a horse. I've experienced how special horses are to be around. I've felt the compassion for riders with special needs warm my own heart.For my son Gabe, therapeutic riding has improved his confidence, balance and strength. It enables him to participate in group activities with his peers. It has built his trust in horses, the volunteers that help him, and the instructors that guide him. It makes him happy to ride every week.The experience is hard to put into words. The feeling of giving while getting so much in return is a special one. Banbury Cross has touched our lives and most importantly has made a lasting impact on my son, and we're forever grateful for that."
-Greg, Gabe's Dad