Boomer meets guests and seeks food

Williams House guests continue to enjoy historic carriage rides thru downtown Fernandina Beach as well as Boomer the famous and largest carriage horse in NE Florida.  The beautiful tree draped streets, numerous historic homes, ghost stories and local history make for an informative and romantic ride.  Attached are pictures from our November carriage rides – Enjoy!

Guests dodge rain to get in a carriage ride

We  had a Nor’easter settle in NE Florida last week and it provided steady rain, lightning, and wind for seven days.  We were fortunate to get a couple of rides in, one with Sarge (the black horse) and Boomer (the giant white horse).  Some areas south of Jacksonville have had over two feet of rain during this period, but we only had 8-10  inches.  The good news is that it has helped alleviate the draught conditions that much of central florida has been experiencing, and it put us ahead of rain needs.  Also it will help keep the forrest fires at bay which were a real problem last summer.  Thankfully  we had nearly full sun the past three days with just a little overcast/stormy look late in the day.  Hopefully we are back to our more normal afternoon shower activity.

The Ellis' meet Sarge before their ride.

That’s Bob, Cindy’s father guiding Sarge down the streets of Fernandina. They are usually paired together and  Cindy is normally with Boomer.

Renee and Clint meet Boomer after he's been fed

After several carrots and six chocolate cookies, Boomer can have guests stand nearby without looking for more food.

The Flynn's (backseat) join in the fun

You can always tell when we’ve had a rainy period because Cindy puts the top on the carriages.  Its a little bit of work to put on and take off, so until she sees it staying clear for awhile, they stay on.

The Brantley's meet Boomer before their carriage ride

Boomer had another great weekend with double rides and therefore double treats.  First the Brantley’s took the historic tour and ride, followed by the Berlin’s.  Evening temperatures were quite warm but Boomer seemed only focused on having adequate treats.  The shade canopy of the live oaks and magnolia’s creates a great place to start our carriage rides, and all we have to do is keep Boomer from coming up the sidewalk to get food.  He licks his lips as soon as he sees us and won’t go at all if we don’t bring goodies.  Both couples enjoyed their ride and as usual learned a great deal of history about Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach.  We tease guests about taking a history quiz the next morning, but we know we couldn’t remember everything Cindy shares in a forty-five minute tour ourselves.

The Berlin's meeting Cindy and Boomer

Boomer - up close; yes he really is that BIG