Intro
The Beberbecker Horse was an ancient breed, bred at a Hessian state stud farm founded at Beberbeck Castle to be capable war mounts.
Origins
Dating back to the early 18th century, the Beberbeck Castle stud was established to breed quality cavalry horses. They required physical strength and endurance, along with a stable character. The original stock were mainly English Thoroughbred, Arabian, Norman, Mecklenburg and Hanoverian stallions. Local mares were used. The result was the Beberbecker Horse, a high quality animal popular with the Prussian military.
Early in the 20th century Beberbeck stud was closed, most of the animals were given to the Poland, founding the state Racot stud. The rest were sold to Trakehnen, contributing to the Trakehner breed. While there are few purebred animals left today, this mighty animal has contributed genetics to many other breeds. , Holsteiner and Westphalian studs are notable recipients of Beberbecker stallions, but many of the German breeds owe something to these original animals.
Sababurg Zoo To The Rescue
While considered essentially extinct, there were a few left out there. Luckily, the Sababurg Zoo made an attempt to find some of the original genetics and begin a new breeding program. They were successful and in 2018 managed to secure some mares and in 2019 the first new mare was born.
Features
Average height 15.7-16.2 hands
Physique
Head has straight profile and small ears
Shoulders are sloping
Well defined withers
Back is strong and straight
Hooves are hard
Traditional Colors
Generally brown, but can be any color except pinto
Temperament
Intelligent and couragous
Use
Cavalry
Riding