Meet The Saddlebred – The Horse America Made!
The American Saddlebred became a recognized breed evolving from the Kentucky Saddler to the Saddle Horse in the 1800s. This breed was created combining Thoroughbred and Trotting Horse foundation sires that crossed with Canadian Pacers, Hackneys and Morgan Horses. By the mid-1800s, the Kentucky Saddler had come to be called the Saddlebred, and was one of the most popular breeds in the East.
Civil War Horses
When the Civil War began in 1861, Saddlebreds carried soldiers and generals into the fighting. General Robert E. Lee’s horse “Traveller” is legendary. During the Battle of Spotsylvania, a Union cannonball was fired, and Traveller, Lee’s horse, reacted by rearing up, causing the cannonball to pass harmlessly underneath him!
There is controversy about General Grant’s horse who was named Cincinnati. Some say he was a Saddlebred, others a Thoroughbred…what do you think?
The breed’s involvement in the war was of great importance, both during and after the conflict. Historians believe the Saddlebred was valuable in helping the South recover from the war.
Hollywood Horses
One of Hollywood’s most prolific equine stars was Highland Dale. He starred in one of the many versions of “Black Beauty”. He continued acting for the silver screen in “Gypsy Colt”, “Giant”, “Wild is the Wind”, “The Return of Wildfire”, and many others movie and TV roles. Highland Dale won Pasty Awards, which are given to the animals as Oscars are to people. The horse won awards for his roles in “Wild is the Wind”, “Gypsy Colt” and “Fury”.
Gone With The Wind
Ashley Wilkes (played by Leslie Howard) to rode off to the Civil War on was a 3-gaited show horse named Anacacho Rebel.
Star Trek Generations
William Shatner With “Great Bells of Fire”
And Who Could Forget”
On With The Show!
Saddlebreds are known for their elegant appearance and smooth gaits. Sometimes referred to as the “peacock of the horse world,” they are popular in the show ring, and parade route. They excel in combined driving, dressage, endurance, eventing, western dressage, jumping, and more. The American Saddlebred is the perfect horse for the whole family to enjoy as companions and trail horses as well!
American Saddlebreds have slim, arched necks and graceful ears, with large eyes and alert expressions that enhance their elegant appearance. Their heads should be well-shaped with a straight profile.
The ideal Saddlebred has a well-portioned body, sloping shoulders, well-sprung ribs, defined withers, a strong back, a level croup, and correct legs. Most Saddlebreds also have a high tail carriage, adding to their characteristic look.
Height: 15-17 hands
Weight: 900-1,000 lbs.
Color: American Saddlebred can have any coat color, including pinto.
Saddlebreds are gaited horses. The Three-Gaited horse walks, trots, and canters.
The Five-Gated horse performs these in addition to the Slow Gait and Rack.
They compete in five primary divisions: Five-Gaited, Three-Gaited, Fine Harness, Park, and Pleasure. In these divisions, they are judged on performance, manners, presence, quality, and conformation.
Sensitive and Intelligent
Saddlebreds are great with children and make wonderful members of the family!
Personal Experience
My first horse was an American Saddlebred, “Odds Golddigger” affectionately known as “Wimsey.” He was my Heart Horse!
His sire was World Grand Champion “Superior Odds.”
I was taught to ride by a wonderful horsewoman, Harriet Himmelstine, of Riverview Valley Stables in Pittsburgh.
Although showing was never my big dream, I did make the rounds in some local shows.
But more than anything, Wimsey was a friend and companion.
I had another wonderful adventure learning to drive with a horse I called “Lovejoy.” Looks like I was having fun!
Life Moved On…
And so did these wonderful horses. Which brings me to my last Saddlebred, “Next Sunday” AKA “The Duke of Denver.”
Denver and I were together for over twenty years and have experienced both good and not-so-good times. We’ve been through injuries, colic, and Lyme Disease. So, if he’s taught me anything, it’s strength, perseverance, and trust in God’s ultimate wisdom. Denver passed away on October 30th, 2025.
Hopefully, I will be blessed with another wonderful Saddlebred in the future!
This was a really nice piece. Thank you for writing it and sharing your passion with us.