A short history of the
American Saddlebred .... In the 18th century, American colonists
crossed the Narragansett Pacer with the Thoroughbred. Known as
the American Horse, this cross was used in the Revolutionary
War, and made its way into Kentucky. In the 1800s, the breed
become known as the Kentucky Saddler. Used mainly on plantations
because of its comfortable, ground-covering gaits, and
sure-footed manner, it was developed into a very stylish, fancy
horse: beautiful for harness, strong enough for farm work, and
fast enough for match races.
In the 1830s, Morgan and Thoroughbred blood was added to give
the breed more substance and action. This produced the American
Saddlebred. The horse gained popularity in the 1840s. The
stallion Denmark, born in 1839, became the foundation sire, with
over 60% of today's Saddlebreds tracing back to this one horse.
After the American Civil War ended, breeders began promoting the
breed as a show horse, breeding for flash and animation, and
earning the breed one its nicknames, "The Peacock of the Horse
World," considered a term of admiration.
Breed characteristics include well-proportioned conformation,
personality, stamina, large wide set expressive eyes, well
sprung ribs and a strong level back.
Twin State American Saddlebred serves the needs and interests of
Saddlebred owners, breeders, trainers and riders from the twin state area
of New Hampshire and Vermont.
