Kentucky
Natural Gaited Horse
Breed Description:
The Kentucky Natural Gaited Horse Association is a not-for-profit
organization dedicated to the Kentucky Natural Gaited Horse of Eastern
Kentucky. The Kentucky Natural Gaited Horse, also known as the KNGHA,
KY Saddler or Country Saddle Horse, is a naturally gaited breed dating
back to the early settlers and Civil War era.
The
natural gaited horse epitomizes integrity, honor, grace, dignity, and
determination. This breed has maintained these innate standards for
over 150 years. The natural gaited horse is a legendary part of the
history of Kentucky, especially of the eastern foothills &
mountains. This horse has played an integral but often silent part in
our state's growth & progression. For example during the Civil
War this breed impartially accompanied many KY men into the battlefield
and carried those home to their families, that did not survive. From
the formation of the railroad to the coal boom era, none would have
been possible with out the assistance provided by this breed.
The old mountaineers bred for characteristics & qualities that
would assist in simplifying their lives. It is believed that the breed
originated from the mixing of different breeds of horses that suited
ones own needs. Two characteristics that were of utmost importance were
intelligence & surefootedness. This enhanced their calm
temperament, & provided for an abundance of stamina & a
good instinct for self-preservation. Thusly, depending on what area of
Eastern KY one was in would dictate which characteristics appeared to
be most dominant. One area would breed for more flashiness or style
while another would breed for more color or endurance & so on.
Despite what characteristics were valued most, this breed has been able
to maintain character & quality through out the years.
For many, the natural gaited horse has been a life-long friend and a
part of their heritage. Society today is in an economical position
where this horse can be completely admired & enjoyed vs. being
used for survival. KNGHA believes this breed has always earned respect
within the confines of Eastern KY. However, those outside of these
boundaries & communities are being deprived of the wonderful
pleasure brought about by the natural gaited horse. Therefore, the
KNGHA's goal is to spread the natural gaited horse word to all of those
who are interested and may possibly want to be a part of enjoying
& preserving this breed.
The KNGHA was formed to preserve the original qualities of the breed of
horse that originated in Kentucky in the 1800's. Most notably is the
perseverance of a natural four beat gait that is rhythmic and appealing
to the eye. The capability of the horse to maintain this gait over
numerous miles without wear to the rider spurred popularity that
continues today. Other characteristics include a remarkable calm and
good-natured disposition, the ability to concisely maneuver in all
types of terrain, the overall intelligence of the horse especially in
intense frightening situations, and the loyalty it shows to its human
counterpart. The Natural Gaited Horse is a loyal friend; a true trail
companion and can easily carry to you to your destination. The Natural
Gaited Horse is an easy keeper and is glad to see you when you come
calling. You can amble down the trail all day and rack into the show
ring that evening. Stallions are often trail ridden and shown in the
same classes as mares. Most importantly, the Natural Gaited Horse is a
horse for the entire family. To the elderly the ride is smooth and
easy.
For those new to this horse the limited historical documentation states
it is a result of mixing the best of the early gaited breeds of the
United States. Preliminary research conducted by the University of
Kentucky has verified that the natural gaited horse originated from the
same foundation stock as other American gaited horse breeds. Until the
University of Kentucky completes research no one can be for certain
which breed or breeds mostly influenced the development of the horse we
have today.
However, assuming history is correct, by crossing the KY Saddler with
Thoroughbreds, Morgans, TWHs, and others produced the product we have
today. Thusly being undocumented and truly validated, until the
formation of registries and associations. The KNGHA believes that as
long as we maintain the standards of expectations and characteristics
we have grown to love and respect, preserving this horse will come easy.
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