CKCS UNITED

These breeders were instrumental in preserving the historical chocolates and solid blacks over the decades. Without their contributions ensuring the quality of the genetics bred along with superior pedigrees, the chocolates and black may have been lost forever. We honor them and thank them for being brave in a time when non-standard colors were frowned upon. They are truly the foundation and paved the way for new generations of breeders to continue on towards getting the Chocolates and Blacks the recognition they deserve. 

While they may no longer own or breed non-standard colored Cavaliers, they should still be honored for the pioneers they were, and take their place in the history of the non-standard colored Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. 

1. Miss Mostyn Walker – Known for her work with the Blenheim and Ruby lines in the early development of the breed.

2. Mrs. Lorna Halden (Ttiweh Cavaliers) – Contributed significantly to the revival of the Black and Tan color.

3. Mr. & Mrs. Freda Gwilliam (Of Ttiweh) – Early supporters of the Ruby Cavalier, working closely with Miss Mostyn Walker.

4. Lady Mary Forwood (Austell Cavaliers) – Pioneered efforts to maintain the Black and Tan and Ruby Cavaliers in early 20th century Britain.

5. Mrs. S. F. Chadwick (of Caerleon) – Preserved the historical Blenheim lines and worked on improving coat quality.

6. The Duke and Duchess of Marlborough (Blenheim Palace) – While not modern breeders, they played a pivotal role in the historical development of the Blenheim color.

7. Miss Sybil Churchill – A key figure in maintaining the distinct colors, especially Black and Tan, through careful breeding practices.

8. Phyllis B. Ellis (of Tandbank) – Renowned for her efforts to maintain all four traditional color varieties.

9. Violet Nield (of Kilspindie Cavaliers) – Played a key role in refining the tricolor markings and preserving the elegance of the breed. 

10. Molly Marshall -  In the early sixties, Molly, one of the original founders and president of the ECCKCSS managed to produce both solid black Cavaliers and black and whites sired by Ch. Don Miguel of Kormar . She tried several times to get the solid blacks recognized as a color but this request was rejected by the Cavalier Club.

11. Susan & William Cochran - Susan Cochran was a trailblazer in the preservation and resurrection of the chocolate Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, beginning her efforts in 1985. As a true pioneer, she corresponded tirelessly with breeders in the United Kingdom, meticulously ensuring accurate records were maintained and brought to the United States. Alongside her husband William, Susan’s dedication and tenacity laid the foundation for the chocolate Cavalier’s modern lineage, with most pedigrees today tracing back to their lines. Thanks to Susan’s hard work, chocolate Cavaliers can enjoy registration with the AKC, securing their place within the breed.

12. William & Mary Mink - Bill and Mary Mink have been pivotal figures in the preservation and restoration of chocolate Cavalier King Charles Spaniels for the past five decades. Their steadfast commitment to providing breeders with affordable lineage ensured the continuation of these unique bloodlines. Their work, has been instrumental in maintaining and promoting the recognition of chocolate Cavaliers within the breed's history.

more to come....