A wonderful, beautifully told story about how the Gypsy Vanner Horses came to the U.S.—and about the kind of love for animals that quietly changes the shape of a life. It follows one man and his wife, whose steady devotion and wide-eyed curiosity carry them far beyond what they know, all the way to the Romani people and the extraordinary horses they cherish. The lecture was given by Dennis Thompson, the man credited with bringing the breed to the United States, right on his farm, with pictures that traced the breed’s history and helped the past feel immediate and real. The talk is followed by a tour that doesn’t just feel close enough to touch—you can touch: you can pet the horses and mules, and feed the birds. Parrots call across the hills; rolling green pastures extend as far as the eye can see; feathered legs and shining coats pass by up close; horses have unforgettable names and unmistakable personalities; and mules kick up joy in the grass. Even the small surprises linger—like the astonishing detail that mules can carry horse embryos. The story leaves behind a sense of enchantment and gratitude, like a brief invitation into a world where care and wonder are daily work

Owners of The Gypsy Gold Farm Dennis and Erin are impressively knowledgeable of the unique Vanner horses breed, their heritage and history. The 40 pristine acres of land that is 'home' to their Vanner horses, mules, donkeys and macaw birds is located in SW Ocala at 12501 SW 8th Ave. A huge, well-maintained barn, gift shop, majestic trees draped in Spanish moss, paddocks (enclosures for the horses, mules and donkeys) are inviting sites to see. The Vanner horses are unique, beautiful, calm, with a gentle personality that are often referred to as 'Gentle Giants'.

We just took the Gypsy Gold Farm History and walking tour which was absolutely fantastic. I’m not a big horse guy, my wife is, but I do love History. Dennis Thompson fully explained not only the history of the breed, Gypsy Vanner, but the Gypsy culture in England who first bred these wonderful horses that he and his wife brought to the United States. For anyone in the Ocala/Central Florida area this is a visit worth taking. The animals are amazing and the collection of other rescue animals (especially the parrots) on the farm are neat too.

Gypsy Gold Horse Farm is a beautiful property with a quite interesting history. The owner, Dennis, told everyone about the beginnings of the Gypsy Vanner breed including a great historical overview of the gypsy families that he spent time with to learn more about their culture. Dennis is an excellent speaker who kept us engaged with lively and humorous stories of his own personal life in the equine industry including the colorful cast of characters he's met along the way. Afterwords he took us on a guided tour of the farm to meet his menagerie of interesting and beautiful animals. The two hours we spent at Gypsy Gold Horse Farm was an enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Amazing visit. Beautiful animals and lovely guide wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this place . Very enjoyable also had. A lovely talk from the owner on the breeds heritage