Origin: Friesland, one of twelve provinces of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Holland), situated in the northwest of Europe. Friesland is an old country dating to 500 B.C., when the Friesians settled along the cost of the North Sea. They were tradesmen, seafarers, farmers and horse breeders. Color: Always black (a small white star on the face is the ONLY marking allowed). Avg Height: 14.2 to 15.3 hh Avg Weight: 1300 to 1400 lbs

Build: The Friesian has a profuse mane and tail, and a neat head set on a shapely, upright neck; a round-ribbed body with a strong back and low-set tail; and hard, heavily feathered legs with open hoofs. Main use: Used mainly for farm work and in harness. Special abilities: Noted especially for its high action at the trot. History: A breed of ancient origin, the Friesian was used in the Middle Ages as a warhorse and later as a charger. It is native to the northern Dutch province of Friesland, an area of rich pasture ideal for producing horses of a heavy stamp. During the nineteenth century a studbook was opened, but the popularity of the breed declined to such an extant that by 1913 the number of registered stallions had been reduced to three. However, a society was formed to preserve the breed and its numbers have since steadily increased.