What Is a Shire Horse?

Origins

• The shire horse originally was bred to be a war horse. Native horses in England were small and not considered strong enough to carry armored knights into battle. Large cart horses from Holland, Belgium and Germany were imported to the country and interbred to produce the shire.

Agriculture and Other Uses

• Shires also were very useful in agriculture. They replaced teams of oxen in the field as they were stronger and more responsive to the needs of the farmers. Their great strength, intelligence and placid demeanor led to them being used to tow barges along canals and drag lumber from logging operations.

Uses in Towns

• In towns, shires pulled passenger carriages and delivery wagons. They performed many functions in breweries and other industries where heavy equipment and products were produced or used. Some breweries still keep shires both for their public appeal and their continuing usefulness in the business. Many people are familiar with this breed and its Scottish relation, the Clydesdale, due to their continuing relationship with the brewing industry.

Decline

• The numbers of shires being bred declined with the rise in use of gas-powered equipment. They were replaced in the fields by tractors and other farm machinery and in towns by automobiles, vans and lorries. By the 1960s, the breed had dwindled to an alarmingly low number, according to the Shire Horse Society in England.

New and Traditional Uses

• The shires have made a comeback since then. Some small farmers and market gardeners have re-introduced the shire for plowing and other farm chores. They are also being used to tow houseboats along canals and pull caravans on country excursions. Shires are in demand for Renaissance festival tournaments as well as strength competitions. The shire associations in England, Canada and the United States maintain breeding standards and lists of bloodlines for the shire horse and host competitions for the breed.