THE OLDEST COMPLETE OUTDOOR HOUND SHOW IN AMERICA

Jack Kingsley has enjoyed a lifetime of field sports, from his early teens with his faithful hunting dog to a chance introduction to beagling just over the town line. Growing up in Dover Plains, New York, Jack and his younger brother, Warren, were avid hunters. Upon chance, Jack heard of a nearby beagle pack in Millbrook led by a man named Morgan Wing. Jack was in his late teens and was an avid athlete and experienced hunter which were welcome credentials to Mr. Wing and the Sandanona Harehounds. This early introduction sparked a mid-life renewal of a sport he would one day dedicate his life.

School and career called for a spell and Jack married and resettled in Malden Bridge, New York. As fate would have, Albert Callan and Tom Kelly, then Master of the Old Chatham Foot Beagles, were nearby neighbors and it took only moments for Jack to pledge his weekends to the hounds. His commitment and passion for hounds grew and became a lifestyle. After a few years, he was honored to be named a Master.

In addition, Jack began riding lessons and was eventually lured to follow the Old Chatham foxhounds, where he earned his colours and rode to the hunt for over a decade. He was a versatile field member, and like any huntsman, could not hear what the rider next to him said, but could acutely hear hounds a half mile away and happily relay the packs intended course.

Undoubtably, Jack's greatest contribution to the foot and mounted sport of hunting has been his dedication to the next generation, including his children, his grandson and neighboring families. Early on he understood the future and committed himself to encouraging younger members to handle and invest in the hounds. At hound shows, including Bryn Mawr, he prefers hounds to be handled by staff, primarily juniors, and rarely takes to the ring. Jack's hope that the Old Chatham beagles could be hunted by our staff or guest huntsman is a near reality. Members are encouraged to visit the kennel and mingle with hounds. He has a soft spot for puppies and spends countless hours name training and pack breaking.

Jack has served as Field Trial Secretary at the National Beagle Club events and as a Board Member for countless years. His love of field sports and contributions of the past and inspiration to future define his character as a hopeful huntsman.