The Boykin Spaniel Society was founded in the
summer of 1977 in Camden, South Carolina. Within the first year the Society had
over 300 members from 25 states. An official registry for the breed was started
in 1979. The Boykin Spaniel Society has now grown to over 2000 members hailing
from every state in the union as well as Canada, Switzerland, Austria and
Germany.
The Boykin Spaniel Society's first annual National
 Hunting Test was held May 23, 1980. Since then
the competitors have grown steadily in numbers and ability, attracting dog
owners and handlers from all parts of the country. A National Hunting Test is
held each spring in South Carolina. Boykin spaniels now compete regularly in
sanctioned trials of the North American Hunting Retriever Association (NAHRA)
and Hunting Retriever Club, Inc. (HRC).
In 1982 a cooperating
organization named the Carolina Boykin Spaniel Retriever Club was formed
thereby spearheading a rugged series of hunting tests. The group holds six
hunting tests a year, training classes, seminars, and judging clinics.
The Boykin's ability in the field and amiable nature have brought him
praise in all forms. On April 20, 1984 the South Carolina Wildlife and Marine
Resources Commission endorsed the Boykin spaniel as South Carolina's state dog.
Governor Richard W. Riley proclaimed September 1, 1984, the first day of dove
hunting season, as Boykin Spaniel Day. On March 26, 1985, Governor Riley signed
into law the act making the Boykin spaniel the official South Carolina state
dog. The 1988-89 South Carolina state duck stamp -- the most popular stamp of
the series -- featured a painting by Minnesota artist Jim Killen which depicted
a Boykin holding a widgeon in its mouth and imprinted with the legend "Trained
Retrievers Conserve Game".
THE OBJECTIVES OF
THE SOCIETY ARE:
- to maintain records of all Boykin Spaniels registered.
These records shall be known as the Boykin Spaniel Registry;
- to urge members and breeders to use the breed standard in
the selection and breeding of the Boykin spaniel;
- to encourage and promote the breeding of purebred Boykin
spaniels and to do all possible to perpetuate their natural hunting ability;
- to do all in its power to protect and advance the
interest of the breed by encouraging sportsmanlike competition.
The success of the Society has been due to the Board
of Directors' commitment that all members shall have a direct voice in the
future of the breed. Important decisions affecting the Boykin spaniel are put
to a vote of the membership. As a result, the Boykin Spaniel Society has become
a viable force which has made great strides in promoting the Boykin spaniel and
attaining national recognition for this fine retriever. |
