Draft horses have a long and illustrious history working alongside humankind. Earlier versions of the draft breeds were thought to carry knights and crusaders into battle. These large, muscular and powerful horses would also be found in agriculture plowing fields and pulling wagons, as well as in transportation of the era. Buggies, streetcars and other forms of equine mass transit relied on these gentle giants during the industrial age.
Even today (and controversially), we can find draft horses pulling tourist carriages in urban centers like New York City or Vancouver’s Stanley Park. Perhaps the most famous modern drafts horses are the Budweiser Clydesdales, its team of eight horses pulling the iconic red brewery wagon in parades. And let’s not forget the adorable Super Bowl commercials featuring the horses and puppies. Fans can even book a tour at Warm Springs Ranch in Missouri, where the Clydesdales are bred, raised and trained.
Shire, Belgian, Clydesdale, Percheron are four of the most common draft breeds we see today. But a lesser-known draft horse breed is quickly gaining popularity. And now (we can’t resist), drum roll please… we give you the Drum horse.