The Florida Cracker Horse is a rare breed, with a worldwide population of an estimated 2000. Despite its ailing population, the Florida Cracker Horse was once the horse of Florida, credited with building the state's agricultural development.

The foundations of the Cracker breed were most likely introduced to Florida in 1521 when Spaniard Ponce deLeon brought horses, cattle, and livestock with him on his second trip to Florida. From there the Cracker would have been developed from feral herds that escaped from the Spanish. The horses were hardy and well suited to the climate. Strong and enduring, they exhibited a natural herding ability and quickly became an integral part of the Florida cattle industry.

The Florida Cracker Horse has had many names, including Prairie Pony, Florida Horse, Florida Cow Pony, Grass Gut, and Chicksaw Pony. It gets its name today because Florida cowboys were called 'crackers' because of the sound their long Spanish whips made when they were branded.

Aesthetically, the Florida Cracker Horse comes in any color, though solid patterns are predominant. The head is refined and the eyes are bright and intelligent. The neck is powerful with well-defined muscles and the back is short and strong.

Because the breed is so rare, there are several organizations trying to preserve the horse as a part of Florida's history, including the Florida Cracker Cattle Association and the Florida Cracker Horse Association.

Back to the Horse Breeds Page         Florida Cracker Breeders - Horses for Sale
Florida Cracker - Horses for Sale