The original Slate River Ranch was purchased by Glade Knight in the late 1970s. Located in the heart of Virginia, the ranch was so named for the Slate River, which runs along the back perimeter of the property. The ranch's lush green pastures, rolling hills and winding streams captured the heart and imagination of Mr. Knight. Over the past 20 years, the ranch has been developed into the ultimate getaway for family and friends as well as a functional cutting horse operation. Luxury accommodations and spacious equine facilities make both humans and horses comfortable and relaxed in its peaceful setting.

In the 1990s Knight's passion for cutting began to grow. In order to fulfill the expanding role of his love for cutting horses and desire to compete at the highest level possible, he made the move to Weatherford, Texas to be in the heart of the industry. In 1997 he purchased Slate River Texas with the idea of developing a full-fledged training and breeding program. The new facilities and location proved to be a good investment. At the 1998 World Championship Futurity, all three of Knight's horses made the finals in the open division. Since then the program has only continued to grow in size and success.

Currently horses are still transferred between the two ranches with Slate River Texas being the main training and breeding facility. Both ranches offer the best facilities and horse care available and continue to grow and improve.