Walker Standardbreds horse stable was among the properties damaged by a tornado that touched down in central Illinois this past Friday evening (March 31).
Owned by Ken “Doc” and Pat Walker, Walker Standardbreds in Sherman, Illinois sustained major damage to several barns on the property.
Walker Standardbreds reported on its Facebook page that all people and horses were eventually located safe and many mares were evacuated to nearby facilities.
"There are no words to express our appreciation for the support, love and help that our friends and community has provided us," said a Walker Standardbreds statement posted on April 2. "We have lost the use of our broodmare and infield barns and the paddocks that support their operations. Most of our mares with foals are stabled off site and we hope to be able to bring them home very soon."
Dozens of community members joined the team at Walker Standardbreds to help locate the horses and begin removing debris and clean up.
"With the help of our wonderful community, we will continue to clear debris and broken fencing so we can prioritize our buildout to support the operation.
"On a final note, our crew here at the farm has been outstanding under what has been a very difficult time for them. The care they provide to our mares and babies is second to none!"
The State Journal-Register reported that the storm's path of destruction also included at least 30 to 40 homes and a childcare center; however, no injuries were reported.