10 Fascinating Facts About the American Cream Draft Horse
The American Cream Draft is America’s Historic Draft Breed! Learn more about these amazing horses in this 10 Fascinating Facts Video!
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#1. They are America's Historic Draft Breed.
There are quite a few breeds with early American roots (I mean hooves!) Breeds like the Old Kentucky Saddler, American Saddlebred, and Quarter Horse. But those were all lighter breeds, which leaves the American Cream Draft standing in a category of its very own.
#2. It all Started With a Horse Named, "Old Granny."
In the early 1900's a draft type mare named "Old Granny" was consistently producing foals that looked just like her, including her cream-colored coat. She became known as the foundation of the breed and lived up to her name as she now has lots of grand children.
#3. The Cream Color is a Breed Characteristic.
This is due to the working of the Champagne gene, which is a dominant dilution gene. The breed looks cream in color, and can vary from light to dark.
#4. They Have Amber Colored Eyes.
This unique coloring is beautiful and captivating to see.
#5 They Have Pink Skin.
Instead of having darker skin, as most horses do, their skin is lighter colored and pink.
#6. The Breed is Very Rare.
With less than 400 American Cream Draft Horses worldwide, the breed is listed as critically endangered.
#7. They are Big, but not always Tall.
They weigh around 1600 to 2,000 lbs and range in height from 15.0hh to 16.3hh, which makes them a bit shorter than some of the other draft breeds. But don't worry, you won't feel like they are small horses!
#8. They are Known for their Calm Disposition.
Draft horses have earned the nickname, "Gentle Giants" and the American Cream Draft is no exception. The breed is well loved for being a calm and quiet draft with a willing personality.
#9. They Were The Tractor Before We Had Tractors.
The founder of the American Cream Draft Horse Association worked his farm, using only his horses.
#10. The Colonial Williamsburg Living History Museum Had Them!
For years American Cream Drafts lived at the museum, they were used for wagon and carriage rides and 10 foals were born as a part of their rare breeds program.
