Belgian draft horse dies at Frying Pan Farm

RestonNow.com February 20, 2024 at 3:47pm

Charlie horse at Frying Pan Farm Park (via Fairfax County Park Authority) — Charlie, a longtime horse at Frying Pan Farm Park, died from a stomach infection last week (via Fairfax County Park Authority)

The animal family at Frying Pan Farm Park is one member smaller this week following the death of a Belgian draft horse.

Charlie died in his sleep on Feb. 15 at the age of 20, the Fairfax County Park Authority announced last Friday (Feb. 16).

The horse was sick on Feb. 12. He was given antibiotics to fight an infection in his abdomen but did not survive.

“Those who would like to pay their respects and honor Charlie are welcome to drop off letters or items to his stall at the Kidwell Barn at Frying Park Farm Park. We will miss you sweet Charlie,” FCPA wrote in a Facebook post.

Now, only one draft horse remains at the farm, which is also home to chickens, peacocks, rabbits, sheep, goats, cows and pigs.

“While we do not have any specific details to share regarding the addition of another draft horse, this will continue to be a topic of discussion as part of the ongoing process of providing animals for the farm,” Ben Boxer, a spokesperson for FCPA, said.

Located at 2709 West Ox Road, Frying Pan Farm Park serves as a throwback to Fairfax County’s more rural days, aiming to preserve and interpret farm life of the 1920s to 1950s. One of the county’s most popular parks, it features trails, a playground and playground, a country store and the Old Floris Schoolhouse that still hosts a farm-oriented preschool and day camp.