A 2015 United States Department of Agriculture study found that over 7 million horses call the United States home, with the American Quarter Horse, Thoroughbred, and Arabian among the most popular breeds.1
But what is it about these 13 specific breeds that have earned them the prestigious title of state horse?
1. Alabama – Racking Horse (1975)
Alabama’s love affair with the Racking Horse began long before it was officially recognized as the state horse in 1975. Known for its smooth, ambling gait, the Racking Horse was a favorite among Southern plantation owners who appreciated its comfortable ride and endurance. (ref)
Today, the breed association is headquartered in Decatur, Alabama, where it continues to promote and preserve this beloved horse.
Interestingly, the Racking Horse’s unique gait resulted from selective breeding during the American Civil War era. Plantation owners sought a horse that could cover long distances comfortably, and the Racking Horse’s smooth, four-beat gait fit the bill perfectly.
This legacy lives on in Alabama, where the Racking Horse remains a cherished part of the state’s equestrian heritage.
2. Florida – Florida Cracker Horse (2008)
With its strong back, sloping croup, and Spanish roots dating back to the 1500s, the Florida Cracker Horse embodies the Sunshine State’s rich history. Recognized as the official state horse in 2008, these resilient animals played a crucial role in Florida’s cattle and agricultural industries. (ref)
The Florida Cracker Horse’s journey began when Spanish explorers brought horses to Florida.
Over time, these horses adapted to the state’s unique environment, developing the strength and endurance needed to herd cattle across vast stretches of land.
Today, the Florida Cracker Horse is a testament to the state’s pioneering spirit and the enduring bond between humans and horses.
3. Idaho – Appaloosa (1975)
Idaho’s love for the spotted Appaloosa runs deep, with the breed being named the official state horse in 1975. The Appaloosa’s history is intertwined with the Nez Perce Native American tribe, among the first to breed horses for intelligence, speed, and endurance. (ref)
The Appaloosa’s distinctive coat patterns, including spots, blankets, and marbling, have made it an instantly recognizable breed worldwide.
The Appaloosa is so beloved in Idaho that the state features the breed on its license plates.
With its strong ties to Idaho’s cultural heritage and its enduring popularity among horse enthusiasts, the Appaloosa is a true gem of the American West.
4. Kentucky – Thoroughbred (1996)
It’s no surprise that the Thoroughbred, with its grace, speed, and agility, is the official state horse of Kentucky. Designated in 1996, the Thoroughbred is the heart of the state’s multi-billion-dollar horse breeding and racing industry. (ref)
From the iconic Kentucky Derby to the sprawling horse farms that dot the Bluegrass State, the Thoroughbred is woven into the fabric of Kentucky’s identity.
Kentucky’s love affair with the Thoroughbred dates back centuries, with the state’s limestone-rich soil and rolling hills providing the perfect environment for breeding and raising these magnificent animals.
Today, Kentucky is home to some of the world’s most prestigious Thoroughbred farms, where future champions are born and trained.
For Kentuckians, the Thoroughbred is more than just a horse – it symbolizes their state’s proud heritage and enduring spirit.
5. Maryland – Thoroughbred (2003)
Maryland may have designated the Thoroughbred as its official state horse in 2003, but its connection to this regal breed stretches back much further. With a rich history of breeding and racing that dates back to the 1700s, Maryland has long been a hub for Thoroughbred enthusiasts. (ref)
One of the most iconic events in Maryland’s equestrian calendar is the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown and a showcase for some of the world’s finest Thoroughbreds.
But Maryland’s love for the breed extends far beyond the racetrack, with an extensive network of breeding farms, training centers, and horse shows dedicated to celebrating and promoting the Thoroughbred.
6. Massachusetts – Morgan (1970)
With strength, stamina, and gentle nature, the Morgan horse has been a beloved part of Massachusetts’ history since the late 18th century. The breed’s foundation sire, a stallion named Figure, was born in West Springfield, Massachusetts, in 1789. (ref)
Recognizing this deep connection, Massachusetts named Morgan its official state horse in 1970.
During the American Civil War, cavalry units highly prized Morgan horses for their endurance and bravery in battle.
The Morgan remains a versatile breed, excelling in disciplines ranging from dressage and show jumping to endurance riding and therapeutic horsemanship.
For Massachusetts, the Morgan is a living symbol of the state’s rich equestrian heritage and the enduring bond between humans and horses.
7. Missouri – Missouri Fox Trotter (2002)
Developed in the rugged Ozark Mountains, the Missouri Fox Trotter is a testament to the Show-Me State’s equestrian ingenuity and pride. (ref)
Named for its unique “fox trot” gait, which combines a walk’s smoothness with a trot’s speed, the Missouri Fox Trotter was officially recognized as the state horse in 2002.
The breed’s origins can be traced back to the early 19th century when settlers in the Ozarks needed a horse to navigate the region’s challenging terrain while providing a comfortable ride.
Today, the Missouri Fox Trotter is prized by trail riders and ranch workers alike for its sure-footedness, endurance, and gentle disposition.
As a symbol of Missouri’s equestrian heritage, the Missouri Fox Trotter embodies the state’s rugged spirit and love for the great outdoors.
8. New Jersey – The Horse (1977)
While most states have chosen a specific breed as their official state horse, New Jersey took a different approach, designating “The Horse” as its state animal in 1977. (ref) This broad recognition reflects the Garden State’s deep appreciation for horses of all breeds and disciplines.
At the time of the designation, New Jersey boasted over 4,500 horse farms, home to nearly 40,000 horses.
These horses contributed to the state’s vibrant equestrian industry and played a vital role in preserving New Jersey’s natural lands and open spaces.
Today, horses continue to be an integral part of New Jersey’s cultural and economic landscape, with the state hosting numerous horse shows, trail rides, and equestrian events throughout the year.
9. North Carolina – Colonial Spanish Mustang (2010)
North Carolina’s official state horse, the Colonial Spanish Mustang, is a living piece of American history. Descended from the horses Spanish explorers brought to the New World, these hardy mustangs have roamed the Outer Banks for centuries, adapting to the region’s harsh coastal environment. (ref)
The Colonial Spanish Mustang’s journey to state horse status began with the efforts of school children, who lobbied for the breed’s recognition due to its unique connection to North Carolina’s history.
In 2010, their efforts paid off, and the Colonial Spanish Mustang became the state’s official horse.
Today, these mustangs serve as a reminder of North Carolina’s rich equestrian heritage and the enduring spirit of the American mustang.
10. North Dakota – Nokota (Honorary Equine, 1993)
While not an official state horse, the Nokota was designated as North Dakota’s “honorary equine” in 1993, recognizing the breed’s unique connection to the state’s history and landscape.
The Nokota horse is named after the Nakota Native American tribe that once inhabited the region, and these hardy horses still roam the badlands of southwestern North Dakota. (ref)
The Nokota’s journey from wild Mustang to honorary equine is a testament to the breed’s resilience and the efforts of dedicated conservationists.
In the early 20th century, many Nokota horses were removed from their native range and sold or slaughtered.
However, a small group of ranchers and horse enthusiasts worked tirelessly to preserve the breed, and today, the Nokota stands as a symbol of North Dakota’s rugged spirit and commitment to protecting its natural heritage.
11. South Carolina – Marsh Tacky (2010)
The Marsh Tacky, a small, surefooted horse breed native to South Carolina’s Lowcountry, was designated the state horse in 2010. With a history of over 500 years, the Marsh Tacky is a living testament to South Carolina’s rich equestrian heritage. (ref)
Descended from Spanish horses brought to the New World by early explorers, the Marsh Tacky adapted to the challenging conditions of South Carolina’s coastal swamps and islands.
These hardy horses played a crucial role in the state’s agricultural history, herding cattle and navigating the treacherous terrain of the Lowcountry.
Today, the Marsh Tacky is celebrated for its unique connection to South Carolina’s history and culture, and efforts are underway to preserve and promote this rare and fascinating breed.
12. Tennessee – Tennessee Walking Horse (2000)
With its smooth, four-beat running walk and gentle disposition, the Tennessee Walking Horse is a true icon of the Volunteer State. (ref) Officially designated as the state horse in 2000, the Tennessee Walking Horse has a long and storied history in the state, dating back to the late 18th century.
Bred initially as a comfortable and efficient mount for plantation owners and farmers, the Tennessee Walking Horse quickly gained popularity throughout the South for its unique gaits and adaptability.
Today, the breed is celebrated in Tennessee and neighboring states like Kentucky, where it remains one of the most popular horse breeds.
As a symbol of Tennessee’s equestrian heritage, the Tennessee Walking Horse embodies the state’s love for horses and its commitment to preserving its rich cultural traditions.
13. Texas – American Quarter Horse (2009)
Texas is practically synonymous with the American Quarter Horse with its vast ranches and cowboy culture. Officially designated as the state horse in 2009, the Quarter Horse has been an integral part of Texas history since the early days of the American West. (ref)
Renowned for its speed, agility, and cow sense, the American Quarter Horse was the mount of choice for cowboys driving cattle from Texas to markets in Missouri and Kansas.
Today, the breed remains a fixture on Texas ranches and in the state’s thriving rodeo and horse show scenes.
Interestingly, the Quarter Horse’s official adoption as the state horse was spearheaded by a ten-year-old named Logan Head, who noticed that Texas lacked a state horse while studying the state’s history.
Thanks to his efforts, the American Quarter Horse is now a proud symbol of Texas’ enduring love affair with horses and the American West.
Source:
Read Next:
Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
