The term “Shire Horse” was first referenced in the middle of the seventeenth century with inconsistent records beginning to appear near the end of the eighteenth century. Eventually two different types of black draft horses evolved: the Fen or Lincolnshire type (larger, with more bone and extra hair) and the Midlands or Leicester type (known for their endurance and finer appearance). During this time, a man by the name of Robert Bakewell of Leicestershire, imported six Dutch (or Flanders) mares, resulting in the supposedly superior Bakewell Black horse. It’s believed that the Friesian bloodlines were introduced to domestic draft breeds, influencing what would later become known as the Shire breed.Īt the onset of the seventeenth century this medieval hybrid was called the Old English Black. It was during the sixteenth century that Dutch engineers brought Friesian horses to England to drain the Fenlands – a coastal plain in the east. Oliver Cromwell’s cavalry sought out lighter, faster mounts and the heavier drafts were relegated to draught work instead. More specifically, the Shire is linked to the time of Henry VIII when the increasing role of gunpowder diminished the use of heavy horses in battle. Like that of the Belgian draft horse, historians trace the Shire back to the destriers or the “Great Horse”. The Shire is a British breed of draft horse that was formally established in the mid-eighteenth century, although, like many of the draft breeds we’re profiling, the Shire’s origins are much older. Next up we have another special draft breed, the Shire. So far, we’ve featured the iconic Clydesdale, the majestic Percheron (the horse favoured by medieval knights) and the Belgian. The dedication of Horseman Martin Whittle and Horseman Callum Whittle, who care for these gentle giants, is a major factor in their success.įor further information and to see photos of the boys in action, please follow them on Facebook.We hope you’ve been following along on our Tally-Ho horse breeds mini-series and enjoying getting to know the unique history and characteristics of some of the world’s most beloved draft horse breeds. When travelling outside of the Devizes area, and throughout our estate, the Shires are transported in a large articulated trailer, which can take a dray, the horses and all their harness, plus has living and sleeping accommodation for the horsemen when overnight stays are required.Īlthough they are essentially working horses, they also make promotional visits to many of our pubs and take part in county shows and other public events throughout the summer months, winning many prizes for their immaculate turnout, grooming and show discipline.ĭid you know? A set of shoes lasts about four weeks and a mobile farrier visits regularly to hot show them with a mobile forge We have five drays - two for everyday work and three that are used solely for shows and public relations events, one of which is a 1903 model that has been beautifully restored, and a modern dray which can be used with a single horse.ĭid you know? A Shire can pull double their own body weight Harness and drays are made to specification - the handmade collars are specific to each horse, and their harness is fully adjustable. Being one of the very few remaining 'working' Shires in the brewing industry in Britain, Sam and George deliver our beers most weeks throughout the Spring and Summer on Wednesdays and Thursdays (weather permitting) to our pubs within a two mile radius of the Brewery.ĭid you know? Each Shire horse weighs about a ton Ponies and traps were used by the Brewery's representatives to call on customers.Īlthough it is a far cry from those tranquil, golden days, the sight of the Wadworth Shires are a familiar and much loved part of the local scene. In their heyday, before the arrival of the internal combustion engine, more than 40 Shires were used by the Brewery to deliver our already famous beers to local inns and hostelries. Over the next few months, Martin and Callum our horsemen, will be working the boys to get them balanced working together, and increasing their fitness ready for showing events next year. He is 18.2 hands and is a perfect match for Sam, with the same colour coat (Black/Brown) with four white socks. George is 6 years old and comes from 'Gentle Giants Shire Horses' based in Wales. * October 2022 * We are delighted that we have found a partner for Sam and he has joined the Wadworth family. Sam is the latest in a long line of Shire horses which, apart from a brief interruption, have served Wadworth for over 125 years.Ī dark bay Shire gelding with four white socks and a white blaze, Sam stands at a height of 18.2 hands. A treasured tradition at Wadworth, our gentle giants are as much a part of the Wadworth heritage as our real ale recipes! Sam
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