A new chapter is opening at the historic Bridal House in Cottontown — one page at a time.

Volunteers with Safe Harbor Sanctuary recently dedicated a new Little Free Library at the Bridal House, located at 2315 Highway 25 in Cottontown. The dedication also served as the kickoff for the Bridal House’s 2026 season.

The historic log cabin, believed to have been built in 1819, was originally constructed by Moore Carter Cotton for his daughter, Elizabeth Frances “Betsy” Cotton, as a bridal gift for her marriage to Richard Hobdy.

The newly installed library features horse-themed books for readers of all ages, along with free coloring pages for visitors to enjoy. Painted by local artist Kellie Elizabeth, the colorful Little Free Library showcases a charming mini-mural of beloved Cottontown landmarks.

Volunteers with Safe Harbor Sanctuary will help keep the shelves stocked. While a check-out log is available, the library operates with the familiar community spirit of “take a book, leave a book.”

Safe Harbor Sanctuary also shared plans to launch “Reading with Racehorses” events later this summer at local foster farms, creating even more opportunities to combine literacy, education, and a love for horses.

The nonprofit organization is an all-volunteer network of foster farms across Middle Tennessee and south-central Kentucky dedicated to helping retired Standardbred racehorses transition into new careers and forever homes while also educating the community and working to reduce cruelty and neglect.

Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Elizabeth Howe, Rescue Director, for providing the article content and pictures.

Cover Photo (left to right): Janet Eimer with granddaughter Harper, Kellie Elizabeth Taylor (artist), & Elizabeth Howe--all representing Safe Harbor Sanctuary. Julie Kincheloe and Julie Solomon, Friends of the Bridal House.

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