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The "Saddlebred", a horse and a breed sought then and
now by many countries. |
The Saddlebred, as a breed, developed from two main strains of founding sires, although these lines are now totally intermingled. An imported Thoroughbred stallion Hedgeford, was brought to
Fayette County, Kentucky in 1832 and his son Denmark is the designated foundation sire of all Saddlebreds. The second important line came from Harrison Chief, a descendant of the Thoroughbred
stallion Messenger. Toss in the American Morgans, the then popular type of riding horses from Rhode Island, and a lot of devoted and knowledgeable breeders and the Saddlebred type, and the
official American Saddlebred breed was realized.
Saddlebred horses as a "type" , have been clearly recognized and bred for specific characteristics since the days when America was fighting for Independence as a country. These horses
had already helped build the budding American settlements and after the country was independent, continued to assist in the growth and exploration of the country from east to west, from south to north.
Saddlebred horses existed no place else in the world, but were developed in America being selectively bred and formed right along with the country, and suited to the county's many needs. It is no
wonder the breed was then named the American Saddlebred. A study of history records tells us that while always easy and good riding, or driving horses, it was discovered that no job humans might
need horses to do was too tough. With willingness, ability and spirit Saddlebred horses accomplished any task, usually very well, and to top it off they added style and elegance, carrying American pride
with every step.
As the country was settled, shows became common and the Saddlebred topped the charts dominating the American show world, a position that is maintained to this day. Only recently have Saddlebreds
begun to reclaim recognition of their extreme athletic ability in other sport horse arenas and other disciplines. Yet the Saddlebred always remains a pleasure to ride and partner - they were and are bred
this way.
This site offers a wide range of pages about the American Saddlebred: origins, breed, history, and tales of noted individuals, from the world grand champion to family pals. Keep scrolling down!
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The Saddlebred in Museums:
Through the centuries since the origins of the breed, the Saddlebred has inspired many artists. With a distinctive high head
carriage, extreme leg action and long neck, coupled with the fact the breed has two acquired gaits (now innate potentials) in addition to the three natural gaits all horses have, plus the combination of
utter elegance with the ability to do, and it is no wonder creative people have found the Saddlebred to be a breed and a subject of enduring interest.
Famous Saddlebred Horses:
Read stories of famous American Saddlebred Horses below -
From the beginnings of the breed to modern day, including world grand champions and family bloodlines. There have been many famous and
outstanding individuals in the foundations and history of the Saddlebred breed. It would be a huge task to outline the entire history, but many stars are addressed, including a couple of the very most
famous of American Saddlebred stallions. Check back as more will be added as time permits.
Dr. Ross Millin of Newline Stud writes a regular column for the South African Magazine, S.A. Show Horse, about the history and bloodlines of some of
the great Saddlebreds of both the past and present. The Artbycrane website is very pleased to be allowed to carry these essays, with the author’s permission.
Visit Newline Stud to read the originals and for information about current day breeding stallion "Perfect Timing".
Artbycrane.com wishes to thank Ross Millin for the many photos used by his so gracious permission on this website and on horseshowcentral.com.
Saddlebred Equine Articles, Essays
Rescue a Saddlebred!!
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Saddlebred Rescue
- Learn about this rescue organization, where Saddlebreds slated for slaughter can be returned to a purposeful life. Wonderful work an wonderful stories about real-life ASB horses.
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We hope you enjoyed our site section on American Saddlebred horses. Come back for more reading…
You are also invited to visit HorseShowCentral.com to locate Saddlebred shows, farms and stallions, and to create your own FREE ad!
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