Barbara and Cary have cemented a foundation in this sport for many people who are active and trialing today. These two individuals became a driving force in the MSFTC, mentoring dozens of people not just in Maine but throughout the Northeast. They were well known regionally as they promoted the breed and educated handlers and owners not only about the benefits of becoming an active part of a club but also about the joy and value of a field‑bred English cocker. They were firm believers in having well‑trained dogs for the field and in the role these dogs play as a conservation tool when it comes to hunting and retrieving wild game.

 

Between the two of them, they chaired and worked on over 40 field trials, two NCCs, and an equally significant number of hunt tests. They served as board members in clubs for over 20 years, and Barbara received the Harold Bixby Service Award in 2010.

Not only did they show a strong willingness to share their knowledge directly with handlers, but Barbara was also known to share their insights through her many articles in both regional and national magazines such as Spaniels In The Field, Gun Dog, Wildfowl, Pointing Dog Journal, and The Maine Sportsman. While Barbara was the one who put pen to paper, her subject was always cockers—and Cary—both of whom made the pieces worth the read. Her last article was printed in Gun Dog and focused on her dog Smudge, whom she transitioned from a trial dog and Master Hunter to a service dog to assist her as she aged.

Through selfless devotion, Barbara and Cary became beloved pillars of the sport, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends field champions and ribbons.