Ranger

The Ranger has an interesting history. In 1879, a Turkish Sultan gave General Ulysses S. Grant two stallions. One of the horses was an Arabian (Leopard) and the other was a Barb (Linden Tree). After the horses were brought to America, they were bred with native cowhorse mares. This took place in Nebraska in 1894. In 1934, the offspring were named Colorado Rangers because a breeder named Mike Ruby exhibited several of them at the Denver Stock Show. A breed association was eventually established. Accordingly, all Ranger horses today must have a pedigree that includes the two Colorado Ranger foundation stallions, Max #2 and Patches #1. Due to the fact that this breed contains Arabian and Barb influences, it is more refined than average western breeds. Because of its history and breeding, the Ranger is great in western riding and ranch work. When it comes to appearance, this breed comes in a wide variety of colors including tri-colored leopard patterns and blanket. However, it is not a color breed or a Paint or Appaloosa crossbreed. Its coloring is an ancestral characteristic. Some Appaloosas are believed to have Ranger influences. When it comes to height, Rangers typically measure in at 14 to 16 hands.