Information on the Morgan Horse Breed

The Morgan horse breed began in the United States with a single stallion possessing exceptional qualities in endurance, power, speed and gentleness. This stallion became the founder of what is now known as the Morgan breed. The calm disposition of the Morgan means that this breed is an ideal horse for handlers of all experience levels. Additionally, the Morgan is highly versatile and able to perform in harness and under saddle.

  1. History

    • The Morgan horse breed can trace its roots back to 1789 in Randolph, Vermont, when Justin Morgan bought a beautiful colt and named him Figure. Everyone was impressed when this lanky colt grew into a handsome and compact horse able to perform better than any of the other horses around. His accomplishments became legendary, and the sweet-natured horse was offered as a stud through parts of Vermont and in the Connecticut River Valley. Figure's small stature, strength, hardiness and all his other characteristics have been passed on from generation to generation ever since.

    Appearance

    • According to the American Morgan Horse Association, the ideal Morgan has vigor, stamina, a unique gait and good conformation. These qualities and characteristics are what make the Morgan so distinctive. The body is compact with muscular shoulders and haunches. She has a slightly arched neck, straight or slightly dished face with large eyes and small pointed ears. Overall the Morgan is elegant and moves with a spring in her step. The average Morgan is 14.1 to 15.2 hands high at the withers, each hand equaling four inches. Although most Morgans are in the dark color ranges' they can be any color.

    Uses

    • The versatility of the first generations of Morgan horses made them useful for settlers across the United States. These horses were worked hard on the farm for riding, pulling plows, clearing land and pulling light buggies. Since the days of the farm the role of the Morgan has changed little. He is a pleasure horse for fun at home and a show horse in either the Western or English discipline at the local fall fair or at an international event. The Morgan can pull light carriages alone or pull heavy wagons as a four-horse team.

    Care

    • Morgan horses are easy keepers; they do not need specialized care, and they are not susceptible to any breed-specific health concerns. They need fresh water every day, either pasture or good quality hay and possibly grains such as oats. Grain should be fed with care, as the calories produce energy for the horse, and if the the horse is not getting exercise he may not need the extra calories. Regular farrier care, hoof trimming and shoeing and dental care are required. Sharp edges of the teeth interfere with eating and with the bit. Regular grooming keeps the coat clean and shiny and the skin healthy. Deworming on a regular basis, as recommended by your veterinarian, kills internal parasites.

    Popularity

    • The Morgan horse breed has influenced the development of other horse breeds. They have been crossbred with the Hackney in England as well the American Saddlebred, Tennessee Walker, and the Quarter Horse in the United States. Morgans can be found around the world, including Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and South America. Morgans hold another place in history. In the United States, during the Civil War, the Vermont Calvary rode Morgan horses.