The origins of the American Saddlebred Horse, also known as Saddle Horses, do not come from within the United States at all, but rather can be traced as far back as 17th century England. After being shipping to US shores, the duly named “Narragansett” breed, the original breed the American Saddlebred is based on, became extinct after being slowly phased out by breeding,however before this extinction occurred, the breed was crossed with the Thoroughbred and eventually became to be referred to as the “American horse”. Known for their good nature and even, comfortable gait, the breed was usually used for slow-moving activities such as pulling a plow or a cart and although they are usually used for saddle-related activities today, the American Saddlebred Horse is also popular for being excellent jumpers and
hunters.

    The Kentucky Saddler, a breed of horse developed in Kentucky that was very popular in the late 1800s, was a mixture of Morgan horse and Thoroughbred and was prized for their beauty and hearty constitution. It is this breed, the Kentucky Saddler that is most commonly associated with the modern American Saddlebred Horse ancestry.  Throughout history, the Saddlebred has been favored by many famous individuals, especially those in military power such as General Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson and Ulysses S. Grant. Some famous Saddlebred horses in the entertainment industry include Mr. Ed and “Silver” who was the horse ridden by the Lone Ranger.



    The American Saddlebred Horse has a number of identifiable characteristics, but the one its most known for is its pride. Often dubbed, “the peacock of the horse show world,” the American Saddlebred Horse is often used for displays and shows because of its tendency to high-step and show off with exaggerated motions and a tendency to attract attention. The body of the American Saddlebred Horse is relatively standard, reaching a general height of about 16 hands. These horses can range in colors and patterns, as they have been bred with a number of different breeds over the centuries. It’s it not unusual to see an American Saddlebred Horse in solid colors, but also palominos, pintos and roans.

    Because it is a non-racing breed of horse, the American Saddlebred Horse has perfect a number of special gaits, for which it is most famously loved. The smooth pace of the five-gait as well as the faster four-beat gaits are inherited traits that have been passed down from the ancestors of the  breed although there are many more than can be taught to the breed as well. The American Saddle Horse Breeders Association, now known as the American Saddle Horse Association, was formed in 1891 and has been promoting and protecting the clarity of the breed ever since. Based in Kentucky, where the breed is said to have originated, the group is the oldest institution in the state and was the first of its kind to be seen in the US, created for the purpose of breeding and preserving the bloodlines of horses, specifically, the American Saddlebred Horse. One way that the Association accomplishes this task is by registering the blood types of the horses on the registries.

Association Links: