How did you get started with draft horses?

[Eli]

I’m wondering how people got started with draft horses? Thanks Eli

[Eli]

I’m getting in by training two American Bashcur curly horses horses that have Suffolk punch in their blood line.

[bird]

A year ago I bought a team of Percherons. I first saw them this very weekend. I placed my trust in Brad Messersmith of New Hampton, IA and I would do it all over again. He is a good man and he can steer you right. I didn’t necessarily want a team that was 18 hands and 4-years-old. But Brad said, “These are good horses. Their feet are glued to the ground.” They are perfect horses. I couldn’t have asked for a better first team.

I had horses as a kid, so I find that everything I knew then is still intact. Driving is new, but I learn from the team. I listen to others as much as I can. Still have a lot to learn about operating equipment, but I just take it easy and don’t get too ambitious and I do okay.

[Mac]

I’ve had horses and mules all my life. Grandad had horses and I worked them. Still do for that matter. Had my hands on a plow when I was 12. Its all in what you grow up with. Had a couple come down from NW part of state wanting to learn how to farm like me. Found out quick they didn’t want to go “back to the land” and quit. Just as well, 2 less for the wife to feed and 2 less in my way.

Mac

[Eli]

Love to hear the stories thanks Eli

[Riverbound]

Fair Winds Farm workshop in Brattleboro, VT. Thanks to the Bailey family! They laid a great foundation that gave me the safety, skills and confidence to jump in. Plus great food, too!

[LStone]

As a child I loved horses and trains. I also loved history and read a lot about old time logging operations with animals and railroads. My dad growing up had Standardbred race horses on the track and I spent a lot of time at the tracks with him learning horsemanship and the racing industry. I don’t know why but I have always been partial to Belgian drafts and 8 years ago I bought my oldest gelding brought him home and learned to drive him then a team. Now we have three… Funny how this hobby grows with you.

[Author]

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