Morgans

Morgans are a breed of American horses developed in the late 18th century in the northeastern United States. They trace their origins to a gray stallion named Figure, owned by Justin Morgan of Vermont, whose progeny formed the basis of the Morgan breed. Figure is believed to have been sired by a Thoroughbred or other mixed stock, and his descendants were bred to produce a versatile, hardy horse suitable for work and riding. In the 19th and early 20th centuries breeders in New England refined the type, leading to a cohesive breed distinct from other stock horses. The American Morgan Horse Association, founded in 1909, registers Morgans in the United States, while Canada operates a companion registration body.

Characteristics: Morgans are typically compact and muscular, with a refined head, arched neck, and a sturdy, athletic build. Heights usually range from about 14 to 15.5 hands, and weights around 900 to 1,100 pounds. They come in many colors, including bay, chestnut, gray, black, palomino, and buckskin.

Uses and influence: Morgans are valued for their temperament, intelligence, and versatility, performing well in riding, driving, and various disciplines. They have a long history of service on farms and in military use, and have contributed ancestry to several other American breeds, notably the American Saddlebred. The breed remains relatively small in population but maintains a global presence through breed registries, shows, and sport activities.