Clydesdale
Clydesdale
This strong and respected draft breed can be found in many places such as Russia, South Africa, North America, and Japan. The Clydesdale originated in Lanark, Scotland when a Flemish stallion was imported from England in 1715. Lanark is located in the Clyde Valley, the namesake of the Clydesdale, through which the Clyde River runs.
The Clydesdale is a good, active mover. Cow hocks, a characteristic of this breed, contributes to the strong power the Clydesdale produces. The withers are often higher than the croup to promote better traction. The lower legs are characterized with heavy, silky feathers. They are usually 16.2hh to 17.2hh, and weigh a ton or more. Clydesdales are generally bay, brown, or black. White is very predominant on the face and legs, and may run up on to the body.
Perhaps the most famous of all Clydesdales are the Budweiser Clydesdale horses. How did the tradition with the Clydesdales begin? According to the Budweiser web site:
To celebrate the end of Prohibition in 1933, August A. Busch, Jr., presented his father with a team of Budweiser Clydesdales and a bright red brewery wagon. It was the birth of a proud tradition.
Today, the Clydesdales are a living symbol of Anheuser-Busch, the largest brewer in the world. Impressive in size and remarkable in precision, their thrilling performances are enjoyed throughout the U.S.
The Budweiser horses are raised in two locations--Menifee, CA and St. Louis, MO. They own between 225 and 250 horses, which is the "largest herd in the world." Very few of these horses are used for appearances because they must have a specific color and markings.
The Clydesdale Breeders of the United States Association "is open to all people interested in the well being and advancement of the breed and has a membership reaching into the four corners of the country. Its purpose is the collection, revision, preservation, and publication of the history and pedigrees of purebred Clydesdale horses... and whatever else the Directors deem in the interest of serving the breed and its breeders."
CLYDESDALE BREEDERS OF THE U.S.A.
17346 KELLEY RD.
PECATONICA, IL. 61063
PHONE (815) 247-8780 OR FAX (815) 247-8337
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Last revision: May 5, 2002