250 Years Strong: How America & Clydesdales Became Intertwined
Before there were engines, highways, or skylines, there were horses.
Strong ones. Steady ones. And yes, some of them were very BIG ones.
Horses that showed up every day, pulled their weight, and asked for nothing more than good care and honest work.
Here at JFP Equine, we are excited about America's 250th birthday. And it feels like the right time to pause and celebrate the role that our favorite and most precious breed - Clydesdales - have played along the way.
Built Day by Day, Not Overnight
America may have been founded in 1776, but it took time to truly unfold. Throughout those formative years, horses were essential.
They plowed fields, hauled materials, transported goods, and connected towns long before modern infrastructure existed. Strength mattered. Reliability mattered. And partnership with humans mattered most of all.
When Clydesdales Entered the American Story
If you've been to an Ultimate Clydesdale Experience at JFP Equine, you probably know that Clydesdales actually originated in Scotland, not America.
Although they hadn't quite arrived to America by 1776 for its founding, they definitely became part of its rise.
To the best of our knowledge, it was around the early/mid 1800's that Clydesdales began arriving (any Clydesdale historians out there let us know more!). These horses weren’t imported for show. They were brought here to work.
Clydesdales quickly proved invaluable in agriculture, transportation, and industry — providing dependable power during some of the nation’s most demanding periods of growth.
By the time formal registration began in 1879, Clydesdales had already earned their place in American history.
They proved their value first ... the paperwork came later.
Strength With Purpose
Clydesdales were known not only for their size, but for their temperament.
They combined immense power with calm steadiness — horses capable of long days, heavy loads, and unpredictable conditions, while remaining composed and willing partners.
They came to represent something deeper than muscle alone:
Strength with patience
Power with reliability
Presence without aggression
These qualities made them trusted contributors to America’s growth — and enduring symbols of dependable strength.
Why This Matters at JFP Equine
At JFP Equine, we live alongside our Clydesdales every single day.
We see ’em eat.
We see ’em snooze.
We see ’em play.
And then we see ’em eat again. :)
But in a year like America 250, their presence is amplified. And it's important for us to step back and think about more than just the day-to-day. To understand not only what these horses are now — but what they’ve been part of.
That’s why experiences matter to us. Not solely because they’re impressive, but because they give people the chance to truly connect with a piece of history.
How JFP Equine Is Honoring America 250 in 2026
Our Ultimate Clydesdale Experience, our Clydesdale 'Backstage' Meet N' Greet, and our many event appearances throughout the St. Louis region and beyond will always be the core of what we do.
Same with 2026.
But in this very special 250th year of America, we're excited to weave in a little extra, starting with:
A dedicated America 250 photo backdrop for our Ultimate Clydesdale Experience visitors, starting early this Spring through at least July
Limited-edition Clydesdale artwork
Storytelling that highlights heritage, strength, and legacy
Appearances at dedicated America 250 events with patriotic decor
We're not changing who we are or what we do. We're simply honoring 250 years, and the Clydesdale breed that has played an integral role in it!
Experience Living History at JFP Equine
Located in Waterloo, Illinois, just outside the St. Louis region, JFP Equine offers unmatched, immersive Clydesdale experiences.
And in 2026, we invite you to slow down, connect with one of America’s most iconic working horses, and experience what built “Clydesdale Strong” really feels like.
It’s the kind of thing you don’t really rush ... and once you visit our Ultimate Clydesdale Experience, you’ll know what we mean!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is America 250?
America 250 marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States in 1776. In 2026, it’s being recognized nationwide through events, storytelling, and reflections on America’s history and growth.
Are Clydesdales native to America?
No. Clydesdales originated in Scotland and were brought to America in the early to mid-1800s.
Why were Clydesdales important to America’s development?
Clydesdales played key roles in agriculture, transportation, and industry during periods of rapid growth. Their strength, reliability, and calm nature made them trusted partners in building early America.
When did Clydesdales become officially recognized in the United States?
Formal Clydesdale breed registration in the U.S. began in 1879—after the horses had already been working and contributing for decades.
What is the Ultimate Clydesdale Experience?
The Ultimate Clydesdale Experience is an unmatched, 2-hour, hands-on opportunity to meet, groom, feed, and connect with Clydesdales up close—offering guests a personal way to experience living history.