The
Percheron, a draft (heavy) breed, takes its name from Le Perche, France where
the breed originated. The Arabian was a great influence on the breed, giving
the Percheron a more refined look: By the time of the Crusades, the Percheron
was recognized for its soundness, strength and beauty.
In
the 17th century, the Percheron was used for a variety of work, including
pulling mail coaches in France. It wasn't until the 19th century that the
French, government established a stud at Le Pin, where a stallion named Jean
LeBlanc was foaled in 1823. All of today's Percherons can trace their
bloodlines back to him.
Percherons
were imported to the United States in 1839, where the breed became very
popular. Thousands were brought over in the late 19th century until World War
Two. They were used both on farms and in cities, where they pulled heavy loads.
There were so many Percherons that in 1930, a census showed that there were
three times as many registered Percherons in America as the other draft breeds
(Belgian, Clydesdale and Skire) combined! But as the world turned more to
machines to do the work of the draft horse, the numbers began to drop. After
the Second World War, the breed nearly became extinct. However, dedicated breed
enthusiasts, including many Amish farmers, kept the breed going. In the 1960s,
the numbers went up and Percherons again became farm and pleasure horses.
Standing
between 15-19 hands (most are between 16.217.3 hh), the Percheron is commonly
seen sporting a dapple grey or black coat, but there are also chestnuts, bays,
roans and other colours. Percherons often have face markings, but not usually a
lot of "chrome". Heavy muscling in the lower thighs, a wide and deep
chest and clean action when moving are also characteristics of the breed.
Because of the early Arabian influence, the Percheron features a strong jaw and
refined ears. Their extreme intelligence, steady nature and willingness to work
endear them to many horse people.
Percherons can seen pulling heavy loads,
giving carriage, sleigh or hay rides, in pulling competitions or in a variety
of classes at shows. They can be shown in halter, driving classes and riding
classes. The Percheron makes a nice riding horse, and can even become a jumper.
Horsepower
February/March 1999