The North American Destrier Horse Registry
On May 19, 2020, the American Quarter Horse Association announced that 6 million horses were registered with their association with approximately 78k new foal registrations per year. In comparison, the Friesian Horse Society of America reported 14,000 registrations total in spring 2023 with approximately 450 foal registrations per year. Additionally, upon the 25th anniversary of the first 16 Gypsy Vanners imported to the United States, by 2021 there were approximately 8,500 registered with the Gypsy Vanner Horse Society alone. With such low numbers in the USA, Friesians and Gypsies are unique and special for many reasons. But like true crime in the podcast industry, the horse world is saturated with numerous registries some of which are great and some maybe not so great. But one new registry one stands out from them all partly because they have a pointed mission: The North American Destrier Horse Registry. This is a great article about the mission of the NADHR and the revival of three ancient breeds now eligible for registration in the United States: the Destrier, the Courser, and the Palfrey. Like Gypsy Vanners and Friesians, Destriers, Coursers, and Palfreys are rare and unique steeped in exotic historical context. They are medieval warhorse breeds. Draft horses, Iberians, Friesian, and Gypsies are part of their foundation. These breeds and combinations thereof were bred to carry knights and warriors into battle, pack supplies, and pulled wagons just for starters. NADHR's Kade Bartlett and team are working tirelessly to encapsulate, recreate, recognize, and celebrate these ancient breeds through all their efforts in the North American Destrier Horse Registry. CR Equine & Kennel LLC Crossbred Friesians, GVs, & Jack Russell Terriers are proud members of the NADHA and we specialize in ancient breeds, specifically Friesians, Gypsy Vanners (cobs), and now Coursers and Palfreys. We are excited to have one Courser DNA tested, evaluated, approved, and registered so far. Three other horses we currently have are pending DNA towards eligibility consideration for potential evaluation. As an entrepreneur, inventor, author, lifelong student, dog breeder, equestrian, and the other hats I so willingly choose to plop upon my head lol, I understand and appreciate the daunting task of massive new undertakings. Undertakings that might look like impossibilities to some, but to their visionaries they are well worth the hard work. The NADHR is comprised of an exemplary group of individuals who are excited to welcome you and work together through education and experience. If you are into horses, but especially interested in ancient breeds, warhorses, draft crosses, etc., the NADHR is for you! Check them out and please share if you should so choose. In continued servitude to our beloved ancient breed horses, -Doc xo
