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Days in Horse Country – The Magnificent Morgan
One of the
oldest American horse breeds is the Morgan, a small animal with a powerful
history.
The story begins in 1789 when a two year old colt, born in Springfield Massachusetts, became the property of a Vermont farmer and music teacher named Justin Morgan. Morgan named the horse Figure and used him for riding and farm work. The young stallion soon became known throughout the region for his profound strength, speed, and willing temperament. Only 14 hands in height, he could drag more weight than horses much larger than he. He also beat taller horses in match races, and he was willing to do just about anything that was asked of him.
Because of Figure’s noteworthy prowess, he became a popular stallion with mare owners, who traveled many miles to breed their horses with to him.
Figure’s offspring were surprisingly similar to their sire in both strength and temperament, and Figure’s prepotency became legend.
For good reason, Figure is considered the foundation sire of the Morgan horse breed. Figure’s descendants went on to become vital in the development of the United States over the decades to come. They were among the mounts of the Civil War and the horses that carried the U.S. cavalry in the West.
Today, the Morgan horse remains a strong willing mount, complete with a beautiful, graceful appearance and a tough constitution. These horses are seen vying in the show ring, working cattle in the West, and competing on the trail.
Michael