Horses Played An Important Role In Our Country's Independence

Once again, Independence Day, July 4th, is upon us.  This is the day we celebrate our country's birthday and it's independence.  Many great men and women played a huge part in America gaining it's freedom.  But, did you know that horses had an important role in it, too?

There were three horses in particular that played a major role in history: two horses ridden by George Washington and the horse that Paul Revere rode in his famous ride through the Boston streets announcing the arrival of British troops.

Most of us see George Washington portrayed on his gray horse, Blueskin.  In reality, he preferred his other horse, Old Nelson, because he was much more reliable in battle.  You could say this chestnut horse was "bombproof".  Blueskin, on the other hand, was more fractious.  The reason George Washington is always seen riding Blueskin is because the image of a good guy is usually associated with white, therefore,  pushing Old Nelson into the background.  Both horses did survive the Revolutionary War and lived a peaceful retirement at Washington's Mount Vernon estate.

The horse Paul Revere rode on his famous ride did not actually belong to him.  Paul Revere worked as a courier.  He began his journey crossing the Charles River in a rowboat, which made it difficult for him to bring his horse.  He borrowed a horse instead, from a local merchant, who sympathized with the patriots.  Historical documents suggest that this horse's name was Brown Beauty.  This horse was never returned to his owner because Paul Revere and two other couriers were captured and held by the British.  An officer of the British army confiscated the horse Paul Revere rode.

George Washington and Paul Revere were two American Revolutionary heroes that could not have made history without a horse.