THE TURN OF THE CENTURY MORGAN

Alexander the Great (1908) by Lyndon, who traces to Billy Root 1829 and out of Kitty Thurber by Ethan Allen 2nd, with one line to Figure through the Hawkins Horse, and one to Thoroughbred through Shark. I present this horse first because he exemplifies “old Vermont” breeding. He is low-withered and somewhat soft-backed, but broad-chested and broad and muscular over the loins. The neck is heavy but beautifully shaped, the limbs substantial and correct, the length of “rein” spectacular. More than anything else, however, what makes this horse desirable is the sweet, curious, biddable expression, the very essence of good-mindedness and easy trainability. This is the sort of horse that the average person can enjoy—something we are sorely lacking in the present day.

Billy Root 2nd (1905) by Young General Gifford who traces to Woodbury, Bulrush and Sherman Morgan, and out of an unknown mare. Standing a little taller on the leg than Alexander the Great, this horse exemplifies the “ride and drive” type of horse widely sought after by Americans in the gaslight era. Note the long, muscular croup; excellent coupling; mediumlength back; superb shoulder; shapely neck; correct limbs; substantial hooves; well-carven head; and the quietly intelligent expression.