The Friesian horse: Noble, grand, athletic, strong, willing, good tempered--these are all accurate descriptions of the Friesian horse.

The Friesian Horse

Noble, grand, athletic, strong, willing, good tempered--these are all accurate descriptions of the Friesian horse. The breed is said to have been developed by monks in Friesland, a northern province in the Netherlands. The Friesian horse evolved through the cross breeding of warm bloods and draft horses.

	During the Middle Ages, the Friesian horse was popular because the breed was well suited for war. These horses were large and strong. They could support a knight in armor. After the Middle Ages, the breed became desirable as carriage horses. Their characteristic steppage gait, all black color, long manes and fetlocks made for a grand presence. In recent years, Friesians have become very popular in dressage and other areas of competition. By the end of World War I, the breed was almost lost. There were only three stallions and a few mares. The Friesian breed and heritage were considered a national treasure of the Netherlands. The Friesch Paarden-Stamboek, the registry in Holland, was organized, and crossbreeding was forbidden. Accordingly, the Friesian horse has flourished in Europe. Moreover, under the strict control of the Friesian Horse Association of North America (FHANA), the Friesian breed has become popular here in North America. Friesian horses have been very popular in the cinema. Ladyhawk brought attention to the breed ten years ago. Magnificent carriage scenes with Friesian horses are seen in movie adaptation of Jane Austin's Sense and Sensibilities.

Most recent update 1/11/00

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