The American West is often characterized by the Mustang, a breed synonymous with freedom and open ranges. However, another equally significant, yet perhaps less recognized, equine legend galloped through the rugged terrain of Appalachia. These horses, often referred to as “Mountain Horses” by locals, have a history deeply interwoven with the westward expansion of the United States, with their domestication dating back to as early as 1770. Stories of these remarkable animals have been passed down through generations, forming the backbone of a uniquely American breed.
The Genesis of a Breed
The journey of the Rocky Mountain Horse from the Appalachian foothills to its esteemed status today is a captivating tale. While some suggest a connection to the pacing Mustang, a more compelling origin story is shared by esteemed breeder Sam Tuttle. It begins with a gaited mare of Spanish descent, a descendant of horses that arrived with early European settlers. This mare, discovered on Bird Island off the coast of Virginia, was believed to be part of an island herd, a common practice for managing larger horse populations in challenging landscapes. Unbeknownst to her captor, the mare was pregnant.
The man who acquired the mare soon embarked on a westward journey to the Rocky Mountains, drawn by the allure of the Gold Rush. During this arduous trek along the Oregon Trail, the mare gave birth to a remarkable foal. This colt, born in the rugged West, would later become known as “The Rocky Mountain Stud Colt of 1890.” Following the decline of the gold fever, the man turned eastward, settling in Kentucky with his promising colt. This very colt would ultimately become the foundational stallion of the Rocky Mountain Horse breed, marking the birth of an American legend.
Founding Fathers and a Distinctive Gait
The lineage of the Rocky Mountain Horse Association can be traced back to Tobe, a third-generation descendant of the legendary colt. Sam Tuttle, a pivotal foundation breeder in the foothills of eastern Kentucky during the early 1900s, owned Tobe. As the cornerstone stallion for all registered Rocky Mountain Horses, Tobe was instrumental in breeding numerous Appalachian saddle mares from the mid-1940s through the 1970s, passing away at the impressive age of 37 in 1979.
Tobe was a striking chocolate-colored stallion with a distinctive flaxen mane and tail. He passed on his inherent four-beat gait, his docile disposition, and his iconic mane to his progeny. The Rocky Mountain Horse Association, officially established in 1986, now boasts over 12,000 registered horses. These equines, affectionately known as “Rockies,” are naturally gaited. This means, in addition to the standard gaits like the walk, trot, and canter, they possess an inherited ability for a smooth, even, four-beat ambling gait.
This exceptionally smooth gait provides riders with a forward and backward motion, a stark contrast to the up-and-down movement of a trot common in non-gaited breeds. This natural gait requires no training aids or devices, and its efficiency is remarkable. The horse conserves energy with minimal ground clearance and reduced knee and hock action, making it ideal for long-distance travel without fatigue. This attribute has led to increased popularity for gaited horses in endurance riding.
The Rocky Mountain Horse Today
In contemporary equestrian pursuits, Rocky Mountain Horses are highly valued for their versatility. They excel in cattle work, trail riding, and general pleasure riding, adapting well to both English and Western disciplines. Generally, they are easy keepers, requiring minimal specialized care. Their amiable personalities, coupled with their athletic capabilities, make this American breed a sought-after companion for riders of all levels.
A Striking Appearance
While the Rocky Mountain Horse Association registry accepts any solid color, the breed’s hallmark is a rich, dark brown known as “chocolate,” complemented by a flaxen mane and tail. This distinctive coloration is attributed to a rare silver dapple gene acting upon a black coat. Minimal white facial markings are permissible, but white markings above the knee or hock are not accepted, with “bald faced” individuals being disqualified.
The chest of a Rocky Mountain Horse is broad, with ample space between the forelegs. They possess a sloping shoulder, ideally at a 45-degree angle, and a gracefully arched neck of medium length. This neck structure allows for a natural carriage with a distinct break at the poll. The breed typically stands between 14.2 and 16 hands tall, with medium-sized bones and feet.
A Truly American Breed
With a rich history and a lineage steeped in legend, the Rocky Mountain Horse continues to cement its place as a favored breed among cattlemen and pleasure riders alike. Their striking appearance, athletic prowess, and amiable nature make it clear why this distinctly American breed is experiencing a surge in popularity.
References
- Rocky Mountain Horse Association Official Website
