These heavyweights of the horse world have a calm and placid nature.Through time they have been used as plough horses,towing barges on canals,and were also used to haul large wagons,drays,omnibuses and trams.
Gradually,they were replaced by technology...with the rise of the railway,they were no longer needed to pull barges.Then came the tractor and motorised road vehicles,hence their days seemed numbered.
Their numbers fell from well over 1,000,000 to just a few thousand,and by the 1960's the breed was in serious trouble.A small group of dedicated breeders camre to the rescue,and the Shire saw a resurgence in popularity,both as a working animal and riding horse.
Another view of the foal is on my other album.
Many thanks for all your views,comments and Favs,always much appreciated.
