Horses have a reputation that cannot be forgotten. What makes a horse famous and what is it? It could be racing fame, Hollywood stardom, or being a war hero. Racehorses like Secretariat and Seabiscuit are the most well-known horses. Many of these horses are almost mythical due to their popularity and the way horse racing is embedded in western culture. Below is a selection of some famous horses from both modern and ancient history. These are some of the most famous horses from history.
1.Trigger
Trigger, a palomino horse owned by Roy Rogers, was famous for accompanying Rogers in films like “Don’t Fence Me In”, and “The Golden Stallion”. He also performed live before large audiences. Trigger was well-known for being able to walk on his back legs and knowing at least 150 tricks. Trigger was also fully house-trained, which proved useful when he visited sick children at the hospital. Rogers loved Trigger so much that he had him taxidermized in a rearing place after the palomino’s death. Trigger is still standing tall in Branson’s Roy Rogers/Dale Evans Museum.
2. Sergeant Reckless
Sergeant Reckless was awarded the rank of sergeant because of her bravery and military service. The humble warhorse, who started out as a packhorse during the Korean War, went on to become a decorated veteran at the end of her tenure. She was honored for her loyal service. She not only transported supplies to soldiers on single missions, but also helped evacuate wounded soldiers from war-torn regions. Sergeant Reckless was twice wounded in the line-of-duty, earning her two Purple Hearts as well as a Good Conduct Medal.
3. Godolphin Arabian
This Arabian stallion is the only horse that was recognized as the foundation sire of the Thoroughbred horse breed we know today. Nearly all modern Thoroughbred horses can be traced back to the Godolphin Arabian who was born in the UK in the 18th century. Godolphin was a strong, powerful horse with a high crest. Breeders were highly interested in him.
4. Comanche
Comanche was a hero in wartime, but with a tragic end. In 1876, he was the only survivor of the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Captain Miles Keogh bought Comanche and rode him. Comanche received a lavish retirement in return for his service as a war hero.
5. Marengo
Marengo was Napoleon Bonaparte’s famous horse. He fought in battles such as Austerlitz, Waterloo. Marengo, who was known for his long-distance gallops, was said to have been able to travel as far as 80 miles in five hours. He was captured by the English during the Battle of Waterloo and returned to the UK for his remaining days. Fun Fact: The National Army Museum in London has the skeleton from Napoleon’s horse Marengo.
6. Bucephalus
Alexander the Great owned Bucephalus, the famous horse. Alexander the Young was able to control him when no one else could. He was well-known for his bravery and stamina. He rode into many battles unassisted. Bucephalus is thought to have died from injuries suffered in battle.
7. Seabiscuit
Seabiscuit was one of the most well-known racehorses in the 20th Century. His story was one of remarkable success. Seabiscuit overcome a difficult start to life in order to defeat War Admiral, one of the most powerful racehorses at the time. Because of his small stature, he overcame prejudices and injuries to show that the heart is what makes it possible to win on the track. Seabiscuit was America’s Horse of the year in 1938. It was the greatest underdog story the racing industry had ever seen. Seabiscuit was loved by the media as well as his fans. Seabiscuit showed the world that no matter where you are from, it doesn’t really matter what you do. Seabiscuit was successful. You can also read 8 facts about Seabiscuit that you didn’t know. Learn the story and most common FAQs about this amazing horse.
8. Frankel
Frankel is known as “The Unbeatable Wonder horse” because of his impeccable record at the racetrack. Frankel was named the horse equivalent of Usain Bolt in 2011 and was the highest-rated racehorse worldwide.
9. Man O’War
The American Thoroughbred racehorse of American Thoroughbred is a legend for both his bloodlines and his ability to win on the track. His progeny have been more successful than any other racehorse stallions and his bloodlines include the likes of Secretariat and War Admiral, Hard Tack and Battleship. Man O’War was awarded Outstanding Horse of the 20th Century. He has been featured in such prominent periodicals as Sports Illustrated and ESPN. Man O’War was defeated once by Upset in a highly debated win. Some argue that this horse is invalid because it started badly.
10. Secretariat
Secretariat is widely regarded as the most famous horse ever. Because of his unparalleled horse racing career, many equine awards, and Hollywood status, most people know about this horse. Secretariat was the first horse to win 25’s Triple Crown. The world watched and awed. Secretariat won the Belmont Stakes by 31 lengths, setting a new record. His victory is considered one of the most important races in history. Secretariat established records that still hold today. He accelerated each quarter mile to the Kentucky Derby and crossed the finish line in 1:59 2/5. This course record is still valid. In history, only one horse has finished the race in less than two minutes. Named Horse-of-the-Year twice and the Eclipse Award as horse of the year by unanimous vote, Secretariat was also the first two-year old to win the Eclipse award. Secretariat was also a media star, being the first horse to be assisted by a Hollywood agent. He was one of ESPN’s 100 Greatest Athleticians of the Twentieth century. He was featured on the covers for Sports Illustrated, Newsweek and Time. Secretariat was also featured in a commemorative stamp. Secretariat has even his own film, Secretariat.