Bison Homes Percherons
The Bison Homes Percherons six horse hitch will perform in full regalia daily at 1:00 pm in the Main Arena. When not in the show ring, this team of beautiful black draft horses will be on display in their stalls for your viewing pleasure. Witness first hand the beauty, grace, power and teamwork of these magnificent animals.
The Bison Homes Percherons are Ben, Colonel, Duke, King Luther, Major, Sam, Slim and Willie. Major and Colonel serve as the primary wheel team (closest to the wagon) with Ben working into the rotation. Sam is the steady presence of the swing team (the middle two horses) while Duke and King Luther split their time between swing and lead team (the two in front). Willie is the consummate lead horse. Slim, nicknamed “The Kid”, is currently “in training”.
The Percheron breed originated in France and was first imported to the United States in the mid 1800’s. Known for its free movement, great disposition and heart, this gentle giant was a major factor in our country’s development. They plowed fields, hauled freight, pulled fire engines and served our American soldiers in both world wars as heavy artillery horses. Percherons normally tip the scales at just over 2,000 pounds, and stand about 18 hands high. You’ll want to check out one member of the team in particular, Ben, currently one of the tallest Percherons in the world at 19.1 hands (over six feet) and weighs in at 2,450 pounds.
For information on the National Festival of the West:
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602-996-4387P.O. Box 12966 |