Library exhibit showcases local woman’s love of horses

The T.B. Scott Free Library is currently hosting its Beyond Books Community ArtShare Exhibit featuring a Spirit of the Horse collection belonging to Merrill-area resident Esther Trostle.
The collection, displayed on the second floor in the Carnegie Wing through the end of April, was inspired by the 2002 animated film “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron.” Trostle is drawn to the movie for its Wild West setting, its blend of history with family-friendly storytelling, and its unique choice to tell the story entirely from the horses’ perspective — without relying on inner monologues to convey emotion.
Her connection to the film goes back decades. Trostle received her first Breyer Spirit stallion set as a Christmas gift at age 14, and as an adult began expanding into other movie merchandise. While she maintains several horse-related collections, she said the Spirit collection remains her favorite.
Trostle’s love for horses extends beyond collecting. A Merrill-area native, she owns two horses and two ponies and spent years competing in barrel racing, fun shows, and pleasure showing before retiring from competition. She also served as a leader for multiple horse 4-H groups, and when her children were old enough, they joined in — competing with the ponies in gymkhanas and fun shows.
These days, the horses are older and the pace has slowed, but the family still enjoys trail riding together. Trostle has shifted her competitive energy toward coaching her children in whatever sports interest them, she said.
And the collection? That’s still a family affair too. For Trostle, the best part of collecting is sharing the experience with her kids and watching their excitement each time they acquire a new piece for the display.
The ArtShare exhibit is free and available for viewing during regular library hours.