The Gypsy Vanner Horse is a magnificent one

Like some fantasy creature of legend or a magical steed from a fairy tale come to life, so the Gypsy Vanner Horse seems. Its enormous power and presence, made unintimidating by the gentleness of its nature, adorned with an abundance of flowing mane, tail, and feathers, make it a breed that attracts a crowd of new admirers wherever it goes.

A relatively new breed in North America, the history of the Gypsy Vanner is as romantic as its appearance. The story begins with the Romani people (more frequently called Gypsies) of Great Britain and Ireland, and their desire to breed a horse that fit their vision of the ideal caravan horse to suit their wandering lifestyle. This horse had to possess the physical strength to pull the heavy wagons, or “vardos,” that functioned as portable houses, the hardiness to endure life on the road without shelter or feed beyond whatever patches of grass were available, and the even keeled temperament that would allow them to be safely handled, even by children. A flashy, eye-catching coat was considered a bonus.

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