Morgan

Breed History

The Morgan was the first recognized horse breed of the United States. Their "thriftiness" and longevity have made this breed a good bargain for more than 200 years.

The breed traces back to the foundation stallion "Figure," who was later known by the name of his most famous owner, Justin Morgan. The colt was born in West Springfield, Massachusetts in 1789, and as Figure grew, his compact muscular body and stylish way of moving impressed many of the locals. Tales of his beauty, strength, endurance, and gentle disposition soon spread throughout small New England towns. His ability to outwalk, outtrot, outrun, and outpull other horses was legendary. His most valuable asset was the ability to pass on his distinguishing characteristics - not only to his own offspring, but also through several generations. His three most famous sons, Sherman, Bulrush, and Woodbury, carried on his legacy to future generations.

The Morgan also has influenced other American breeds, including Tennessee Walking Horses, Quarter Horses, Standardbreds, and American Saddlebreds. Companionable and comfortable on a quiet pleasure ride, working as a sensible partner in a long day of ranch work or endurance riding, waiting alert and ready to enter a show ring, or performing in formal riding disciplines, the Morgan is a versatile horse within a versatile breed. They have remained a stylish mount with conformation that lends itself well to a vast range of disciplines. They are gentle enough for lessons, 4-H, and Pony Club involvement, and are in great demand as therapeutic riding horses due to their steady, comfortable gaits. 

Breed Standard

Average Size: 14.1-15.2 hands

Body Type: Compact and muscular, fit for any purpose

Colors: Chestnut, black, bay, brown, palomino, buckskin, smoky black, cremello, perlino, smoky cream

Versatility: Morgans comprise a large number of entries at combined driving and carriage events, and excel in these and other disciplines, including English pleasure, park saddle and harness, western, hunter pleasure, dressage, reining, and cutting.

Estimated Population Worldwide:  125,000+

The Breed Today

An ideal horse for today’s modern family, Morgans are happy to take riders with diverse interests through any competitive or pleasure pursuit. From speedy sporting disciplines like eventing and jumpers to more quiet riding and driving activities, Morgans are ready and willing for them all. They can be found in the show ring, on the trail, in international competition, and on the ranch. Morgans are equally at home being family friend or a world-class athlete.

For additional information, contact:

American Morgan Horse Association
4066 Shelburne Rd Ste 5
Shelburne, VT 05482-6908
(802) 985-4944
info@morganhorse.com
www.morganhorse.com