Intro
Also called Lincolnshire Black, the Old English Black Horse is an extinct breed which lent its genetics to a variety of draft breeds in the UK.
Origins
Their ancestors are thought to come from France around the year 1066 when the Normans came to the UK. They brought draft types with them and over the years they were crossed with local animals. Over time a type emerged which came to be called Old English Blacks. During the 17th century, William III imported Dutch animals (possibly Friesian) to Lincolnshire to help drain the fens.
While their name indicates a color breed, they were known in a large variety of colors and some white patterns. In fact, they were generally bay or brown, perhaps until after the Dutch animals were introduced. Eventually these old bloodlines were bred into extinction, but their genetics live on in Clydesdale and Shire horses.
Features
Average height 16.5 hands
Physique
Handsome head with a broad forehead
Ears are large
Long, crested neck
Shoulder is oblique
Hindquarters are long and muscular
Legs are long, well formed and feathered
Hooves are flat and open
Traditional Colors
Generally bay or brown but also found in black, grey, chestnut and roan
Temperament
Friendly and calm
Use
Transportation
Military
Agriculture
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