As we approached the Hall of Champions at approximately noon on Tuesday, John Henry's grave site waited at the corner of his paddock.
The grave was encompassed by pots of white chrysanthemums. If you look closely, you'll be able to see single red roses tucked carefully into a couple of the pots.
Inside the barn, his stall door was closed. The many get well cards that he had received remained on the door. Flowers had already started coming in early in the day.
The gentleman in this photo (sorry, I don't have his name) was one of John's caretakers.
Inside his empty stall, only the birds remained.
Throughout the day, arrangements continued to arrive in remembrance of John Henry.
Photos of John joined the flowers.
A beautiful wreath was hung on the door of his stall.
John's shoe were tied into the ribbons of the wreath.
In the lobby of the Museum of the Horse, a case housed John's halter, photos, trophy, and remembrances of the champion.
A close up of the trophy from John Henry's first stakes win in the Lafayette Futurity at Evangeline Downs, September 5, 1977.
The work continues on John Henry's grave site as sod is placed around the area.
A large arrangement is placed at the center of his grave, surrounded by the while chrysanthemums. The carrot that was placed on his grave can be seen in the background.
With the day almost at an end, the shadows began to cover John Henry's grave and paddock. As the sun filters through the trees, the beauty and serenity of the spot is undeniable.
A wreath was hung on the marker bearing his information.
Early in the evening, a banner was erected. Signatures of farewell and remembrances adorn the banner.
As the day drew to a close, and shadows began to cover John Henry's paddock, it was clear that, forever, this particular part of the Horse Park will always belong to John Henry.
