12 Famous Horses From History
Figure The Morgan horse breed, one of the earliest in the United States, is often overlooked. Figure, a small bay stallion, was given to Justin Morgan at three years old for a debt. He gained fame for his workhorse and racehorse abilities, and was known as the Justin Morgan horse. Figure's unique abilities were passed down through generations, and he continued to sire foals and be used in various activities. He died in 1821 after being injured by another horse. His legendary sire is featured in Marguerite Henry's "Justin Morgan Had a Horse" and a 1972 Disney film.
Comanche Comanche, a bay gelding from mustang stock, was a notable equine war hero who survived the Battle of Little Big Horn. He was the mount of Captain Myles Keogh and was seriously wounded in the battle. Comanche was named after his bravery and steadfastness, having been shot by an arrow in 1868. After retiring in 1878, Colonel Samuel D. Sturgis ordered his care and comfort, ensuring his life was preserved to the utmost limit. Comanche was given a comfortable stable, never ridden again, and was given full military honors when he died in 1891. His remains are preserved and can be seen on display at the University of Kansas Natural History Museum.
Sergeant Reckless Sergeant Reckless, a modern-day war horse, is the most decorated horse in U.S. military history. Born in 1952, she became part of the U.S. Marine Corps and became a pack horse carrying ammunition for recoilless rifles and supplies during the Korean War. Despite her bravery and her appetite, she survived the war and was recognized for her role. Reckless was brought back to the U.S. in 1954 and was promoted to staff sergeant in 1959. She retired with full military honors in 1960 and was the recipient of two Purple Hearts, Good Conduct Medal, Presidential Unit Citation with star, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
Beautiful Jim Key Beautiful Jim Key, a 20th-century horse known for his intelligence, was a significant performer and trainer. He was known for his abilities in counting, math, spelling, Bible verses, timekeeping, and using a phone. The horse and his trainer, Dr. William Key, were the biggest act of the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair, attracting an estimated 10 million people. Dr. Key, a former slave, advocated for animal kindness and trained Beautiful Jim without a whip. They received awards, including the Humanitarian Gold Medal from MSPCA and multiple humane and literacy awards. Together, they made significant strides in animal welfare and breaking down barriers for African Americans.