Bruno Pugh
Ever curious about which noble steed holds the crown as the official horse of each state? Equestrian enthusiasts and fans of all things hoofed, we’ve got the inside scoop on the majestic horses that represent the heart and soul of America. So, grab your reins, and let’s trot through the official horse breeds of these states.
Alabama State Horse: The Racking Horse
The Racking Horse was designated in 1975 and is famous for its smooth and ambling gait. If you’ve ever wondered why these horses were so popular on Southern plantations, it’s because they can be ridden comfortably for hours.
Florida State Horse: Florida Cracker Horse
These horses were first brought to Florida by Spanish explorers and played a vital role in the state’s agricultural history, especially in cattle herding. Legally acknowledged as the state horse in 2008, these resilient animals are famed for their straight or slightly concave profiles, strong backs, and sloping croups.
Idaho’s State Horse: Appaloosa
This spotted beauty, once known as ‘Palouse horses’ by white settlers, became Idaho’s state horse in 1975, and for a good reason. The Appaloosa has deep roots with the Nez Perce Indian tribe, who were among the first to raise horses for specific traits like intelligence, speed, and endurance.
Kentucky State Horse: Thoroughbred
Designated in 1996, this majestic horse is the heart of a multi-billion-dollar breeding and racing industry that Kentucky proudly leads. Famed for their elegant stature, these horses typically showcase colors like bay, chestnut, and black, with the occasional gray or roan adding a touch of variety.
Maryland State Horse: Thoroughbred
In Maryland, the Thoroughbred was recognized as the state horse in 2003 for its speed and versatility. These majestic horses come in various colors, from bay to black to chestnut. After their time on the track, they took on new lives as fox hunters, show hunters, and even trail companions.
Massachusetts State Horse: Morgan
A stallion named Figure was born in West Springfield, Massachusetts, and little did anyone know he would become the foundation sire of the entire breed and become the official breed in 1970. These horses quickly became notable for their strength, stamina, and calm nature, making them the go-to choice for Civil War cavalry.
Mississippi State Horse: American Quarter Horse
Known for its agility and lightning-fast reflexes, this breed is a rodeo star, perfectly fit for a state that loves its equestrian sports. In 2024, Mississippi proudly crowned the American Quarter Horse as its official state horse. The American Quarter Horse easily handles anything from barrel racing to cattle herding.
Missouri State Horse: Fox Trotter
Originating in the rugged Ozark Mountains during the early 19th century, this gaited horse is famous for its signature “fox trot”—a smooth, ambling gait that’s as comfortable as it is graceful. Formally appointed Missouri’s state horse in 2002, the Fox Trotter is distinguished for its endurance and gentle demeanor.
New Jersey State Horse: Horse (State Animal)
Made the state animal in 1977, this horse symbolizes the power and strength that have long been part of New Jersey’s history. Previously, the state was home to over 4,500 horse farms and nearly 40,000 horses, which played an important role in preserving the state’s natural lands and agricultural success.
North Carolina State Horse: Colonial Spanish Mustang
This breed, adopted in 2010, is proof of the state’s coastal heritage, with roots tracing back to the Spanish Conquistadores. For over four centuries, these hardy horses have roamed the Outer Banks, surviving hurricanes, storms, and the encroachment of human development.
North Dakota State Horse: Nokota (Honorary Equine)
In 1993, the North Dakota Legislative Assembly made this unique equine the state’s honorary horse. But the Nokota is believed to be descended from the horses of Sitting Bull himself. With only a few remarkable horses left, dedicated efforts are underway to save the Nokota from extinction.
Oklahoma State Horse: American Quarter Horse
Cowboys, Native Americans, and pioneers all rode this versatile breed, now named the state horse of Oklahoma. From hauling and racing to farm work, the Quarter Horse played a key role in building the state’s rich agricultural heritage. The horse was claimed in 2022 by the Oklahoma State Senate.
South Carolina State Horse: Marsh Tacky
Designated as the state horse in 2010, this breed, native to the Palmetto State, was shaped by the isolated sea islands of South Carolina and Georgia. Resembling the Spanish Mustang, the Marsh Tacky is a descendant of the Spanish horses brought to the Americas over 300 years ago.
Tennessee State Horse: Walking Horse
With its graceful movement and historical roots on Southern farms, this breed was officially recognized in 2000 and is now celebrated for its incredibly smooth four-beat running walk. Originally from the heart of Tennessee, this horse is also popular in neighboring Kentucky, where it’s one of the top three.
Texas State Horse: American Quarter Horse
Based in Amarillo, this strong, smart, fast horse that once helped cowboys on cattle drives from Texas to Missouri and Kansas. Interestingly, the horse’s official adoption in 2009 came about thanks to a ten-year-old named Logan Head, who noticed Texas lacked a state horse while studying the state’s history.
Vermont State Horse: Morgan (State Animal)
Now known as the Morgan horse, it was named after his owner, Justin Morgan, and became Vermont’s state animal in 1961. These horses were invaluable during the Civil War because of their strength, intelligence, and loyalty. Even when Vermonters headed west, they took their beloved Morgan horses along.
Virginia State Horse: Chincoteague (State Pony)
In 2023, Virginia named the Chincoteague its state horse, a breed managed by the volunteer fire company on Assateague Island. The horse might be called a pony, but don’t be fooled—they’re all horses. Virginia’s connection with horses dates back over 400 years to the days of Jamestown’s first settlers.