Deservedly, the Morgan Horse is one of the most famous all-purpose breeds in North America. The build of a quality Morgan is spectacular. The body is large with a deep girth and the back is short but broad and muscled. The withers are defined and the shoulders, though not built for speed, are built for strength. The hindquarters are not only powerful but also perfectly symmetrical as they lead down to slender legs with good bone structure, well-formed joints, and round and healthy hooves.

The ears are pointed and the head tapers to the muzzle - giving the horse a more refined appearance while its lengthy tail gives it a touch of flash. Strong and confident with a wonderfully willing temperament, the Morgan is a great show and jumping horse, but also a good ride.

The Morgan is the first documented American breed and the founding sire was born at West Springfield in Massachusetts. Over the years, it's been a major influence on American horse development. The Morgan bloodline has shaped a number of breeds including the Saddlebred, Standardbred, Tennessee Walking Horse, and the Canadian.

The story behind the Morgan's founding is truly American. The breed owes its existence to one stallion, a little bay horse named Justin Morgan. Neither big nor remarkable, Justin Morgan was given as a debt payment to his namesake, Justin Morgan, in 1795. After Justin Sr. died, the horse bounced from owner to owner. It wasn't until one keeper, Mr. Robert Evans, discovered Justin's ability when he finally took off. Evans figured out that Justin Morgan could out-haul and out-run any horse in the area. He may have been tiny, but he was fast and strong.

From then on, Justin Morgan was raced in saddle and under harness but also worked hard and put in numerous hauling contests. He was never beat. As a result, he became a high-demand sire and all modern-day Morgans can trace their roots to his three famous sons – Sherman, Woodbury, and Bullrush.

Back to the Horse Breeds Page         Morgan Breeders - Horses for Sale
Morgan - Horses for Sale