A Brief History of The Morgan

The source of the Morgan horse breed can be traced back to about 1790. A "smallish" dark bay by the name of "Figure" was born in Springfield, Massachusetts. In 1795 the horse was given to a Vermont schoolmaster named Justin Morgan as partial payment of a debt. Figure became known as the "Justin Morgan Horse".

Justin Morgan worked incredibly hard plowing, hauling and clearing woodland for the local settlers. Although the horse was relatively small (no more than 14h.), it never lost a race or hauling match. Consequently the horse was bred frequently and now all Morgan's can be traced back to Justin Morgan by way of one of his famous sons: Sherman, Woodbury, and Bullrush.

Morgans are known for their easy keeping qualities and endurance. Speed, strength and versatility set the Morgan horse apart from other breeds. Rarely will you find a single horse with the willingness and abilities for competitive riding, driving, jumping and enjoying a leisurely trail ride. The morgan temperament is quite unique and is the trait responsible for "hooking" many Morgan lovers old and new.

The Morgan horse contributed to the development of the American Saddlebred, The American Quarterhorse, and the Tennessee Walking Horse, and Morgans are in fact "The First True American Breed"

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