In 1977, the Auxiliary gained independence.  The bylaws were changed to read, "to aid the Walking Horse Trainers' Association and promote the Tennessee Walking Horse Industry."  We also changed our name to Walking Horse Trainers' Auxiliary to allow members other than trainers' wives to join.  There were 63 active members.  

        In 1979, we published our first "Blue Ribbon" cookbook.  In 1981, the first Auxiliary Roast was held, honoring Mr. Vic Thompson.  In 1982, the Auxiliary had two memorable events, the first Celebration auxiliary class and the purchase of an Auxiliary Barn, which was placed on the Celebration grounds.

        In 1984, the Auxiliary Equitation program got off the ground and the first Money Tree Classic was held the following year in 1985.  In 1988, the Auxiliary established the WHOO program... promoting the donation of funds to academies working with handicapped children.  The first Auxiliary Hi-Point Member Award went to Darcy Newman in 1989 and Dee Cantrell received the first Member of the Year Award in 1990.

        Mud Slide Slim was officially retired at the 1990 Celebration and Auxiliary night at the Celebration was started.  In 1992, the Auxiliary published a second cookbook entitled "Something Special."  We also began the project "Women at Work."  In 1993, the Auxiliary co-sponsored, with the Celebration, the Hall of Fame and the grand opening of the Walking Horse Museum.  

         In 1997, the Auxiliary began to look at a building fund for the Trainers' Association.  This has continued to grow.  

         In 1999, we added the Celebration Auxiliary Class Winner Award.  We also developed and printed a stylish brochure, outlining our mission, projects, etc.  In 2000 the first Equitation Hi-Point Awards were presented in the youth and adult categories.  Each year we have continued to progress, and the membership is growing from coast to coast.