Recognized as the first north American breed of horse, the Morgan horse originated in the United States. Sired by the stallion Figure , owned by a Massachusetts school teacher named Justin Morgan.
An exceptional horse, Figure was used for plowing fields, pulling carriages and as a saddle horse for Justin Morgan.

Figure possessed a gentle disposition, showy gait, high spirit and great beauty. He outran famous racehorses and was able to pull logs that no draft horse could move.

One of the greatest stud horses of all times, he was bred to hundreds of mares , passing on his distinctive characteristics down to his foals regardless of the mare's breeding. Figures descendants served as general purpose farm horses, stage horses and harness racers.

As the popularity of the morgan horse grew the Vermont calvary took interest in the courageous little horses and mounted its entire calvary on morgans.
 
 

Characteristics

Warm blooded

Medium length head with a delicate muzzle, broad forehead, slightly dished face and short shapely ears
tapered neck near throat
Elegant strong legs with short cannon bones and a long forearm
Short back
Long thick mane and tail
Average height is between 14hh and 15.2hh but this may vary
all solid colors can be found but never grey or white. White markings allowed only on the face and below the knees
Morgans are known for stamina , vigor , alertness , and adaptability.

Famous bloodlines
 
 
 

GOVERNMENT LINES

Establishes by Col. Joseph Battell in 1907 with his stud General Gates, in Vermont. Gates was a full brother to Lord Clintor ( fastest trotting morgan horse for the time)
Gates sired 3 famous stallions, Red Oak , Linsly , and Bennington.
Government morgans are known for endurance racing , jumpers and calvary mounts. They posses good conformation , stamina , versatility and excellent disposition.

LIPIT LINE

Founded by Robert Lipit Knight these morgans are few in number .
They make strong harness horses and are suited for rugged mountain locations
They have small short bodies , high heads and trappy gaits.

BRUNK

The most popular of the morgan bloodlines
Founded in 1893 by Joseph Brunk in Springfield, Massachusetts
Known for high action , athletic ability and soundness possessing excellent temperament and elegance
One famous Brunk horse was Beamington. This remarkable morgan was the world champion Morgan stud for 5 years running and he sired more than 200 foals before his death

WESTERN WORKING FAMILY

Developed over a period of 70 years by ranchers and breeders , for work on cattle ranches and farms
Breeding includes a combination of Brunk and Government lines
Selective breeding developed good feet , deep bodies and strong hindquarters
The Western Working Family of morgans is one of the founding bloodlines in the Quarter Horse breed.

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