10/01/07 The American Horse

You know we consider the American Quarter Horse, America's horse but another breed has made some pretty spectacular contributions to our nation, I'm Jeff Keane, I'll be back after this break to share a bit on a breed known as the "American Horse." From the revolutionary war, the war of 1812, the Mexican War to the Civil War, the American Saddlebred has proudly carried our men into battle. Here's Becky. That's right Jeff our revolutionary war cavalry that won the battle at Kings Mountain all rode Saddlebreds. Coveted by officers for their ground covering pace with the size and looks of a thoroughbreds the Saddlebred truly impacted US history. Kentucky became known for this breed and by the War of 1846; entire companies of Americans from the South rode their Saddlebreds deep into Mexico. The Saddlebred became famous during Civil War for it's appearance and stamina. That's right Becky, Lee's horse Traveller was a saddlebred. Yes Jeff but so was Grants "Cincinnati", and both Sherman and Stonewall Jackson's mounts along with most other Confederate generals. In fact it's been said that the breed was saved because Grant order at Lee's surrender allowed the Confederate soldiers to keep their horses. Today the Saddlebred is a versatile breed popular in the East Coast for showing events from driving to dressage. It's fascinating history when you think that those fancy horses that can be seen at Madison Square Garden were once tough enough to carry our Civil War generals, I'm Jeff Keane.