Foundation Morgan Horses
If you are here because you are wondering what the difference is between a Morgan Horse and a Foundation Morgan Horse, you are not alone! Many people have heard about Morgan Horses at some point. (If you haven’t, that’s OK and we are very glad you are here!). Many people refer to a horse that has at least some of the Justin Morgan bloodline in it as a Morgan Horse.
The Morgan Horse is considered a unique breed because it can be traced back to only one horse. The horse was originally named Figure, but later became known as Justin Morgan because that was the name of the owner at the time Figure was becoming recognized. Unfortunately, the actual breeds that Figure came from are unknown because of the lack of documentation. However, Figure became well liked because of his strength, endurance, temperament, and overall willingness to do anything needed of him.
The wonderful traits of the Justin Morgan Horse (Figure) were passed on through his offspring as well. Being the first horse breed that originated in the United States, the Morgan Horse is known as “America’s Horse”. Since Morgan Horses are so loved due to specific traits, it makes sense that people have used them to breed with other horses and create new breeds. Due to cross breeding, the original bloodline, or genetically pure, Morgan Horses are not easy to find. The Morgan Horses that are considered the original bloodline are called Foundation Morgan Horses or Traditional Morgan Horses.
Over the years, people have stepped up to try to preserve the Morgan Horse breed. However, with limited information available it is difficult to gain momentum and support in growing the population of Foundation Morgan Horses. In 2013, the Livestock Conservancy recognized that Foundation Morgan Horses, the horses from the original Justin Morgan Horse line, were in danger of extinction. Although there are breeders out there that are dedicated to breeding only Foundation Morgan Horses, these people can only do so much without the help of others.
Certain qualifications must be met to qualify as a Foundation Morgan Horse.