By Johnathan Squibbs, Agricultural Tradesman

Draft horses have played a significant role in the development of the United States. Throughout history, horses have been used on farms and in cities to move freight. The draft horse’s popularity started to decline following World War I in the U.S. and World War II in Europe. Draft horses are famous for their strength, endurance, and easygoing nature. Most of these horse breeds originated from challenging climates and were kept for manual labor including plowing and hauling loads. Despite being muscular and powerful, most draft horses have a docile temperament. They are still used in farming and logging, but most are used for recreational purposes such as riding or showing.

In North America, the five draft horse breeds on the classic list are Belgian, Clydesdale, Percheron, Shire, and Suffolk. Farmpark visitors can view Belgians, Clydesdales, and Percherons, each of which weigh approximately 2,000 lbs. On average, a draft horse can
pull two to three times its own weight.

The most recognizable breed of draft horse at Farmpark is the Clydesdale. The breed originated in the Lanarkshire area of Scotland and is widely recognized around the world. On average, the breed stands 16.2 hands or 5’4” at the withers, although some can be taller. One hand is equal to about four inches. They have long silky hair on their legs known as feathers. Their colors can be bay, brown, or black. Farmpark welcomed a new Clydesdale named Laurel this year. She is 14 years old and is the lightest and shortest of the draft horses at the park.

Clydesdale Laurel

Belgians are the most popular draft horse breed in the United States. The breed originated in the area we now call Belgium. On average, the breed stands 16 to 17 hands, but can be taller (the tallest Belgian in the world is 20.3 hands). They are typically sorrel in color with blond manes and tails. Farmpark has two Belgians, eight-year-old Brutus and nine-year-old Jaxx (the biggest draft horse at the park).

Belgians Jaxx & Brutus

Percherons are the second most popular breed in the country. The breed originated in the Perche province of France. They range in height from 15 to 19 hands but average around 17 hands. The breed can be assorted colors, but most are black or grey. Farmpark has two Percherons, eleven-year-old Karl and thirteen-year-old Willie.

Percherons Willie & Karl

Having three major breeds of draft horses at the Farmpark enables us to educate visitors about the varied sizes, colors, and general appearance of each breed. It also allows us to demonstrate how they help us on the farm. Come out to Farmpark to see each breed up close!