Developed by farmers in the state of Tennessee through the selective mating of trotters and pacers, a saddle horse evolved that was both an effective utility horse and an easy gaited mount. This horse performed an unusual yet smooth gait that came to be known as the running walk.
In 1935, admirers and breeders of this unique horse met to form the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' Association of America. The purpose of this association was to collect, record and preserve the pedigrees of the Tennessee Walking Horse, to maintain a registry, develop rules and regulations governing all aspects of Tennessee Walking Horses, and to sponsor programs promoting this breed. Lewisburg, Tennessee, the home of the first meeting, was chosen as the official headquarters for this new breed.
The organization selected 115 animals as foundation stock for the Tennessee Walking Horse. These foundation animals represented the tributaries which combined to produce the mainstream of the breed.
Allan, a small black stallion with a blazed face, bred from the finest Morgan, Thoroughbred and Saddlebred stock, was chosen as the number one foundation sire. Allan both exhibited and passed to his offspring a gentle temperament and the smooth running walk gait. He was given the title Allan F-1 to denote his being the first horse listed in the Tennessee Walking Horse stud book.
The Tennessee Walking Horse stud book was closed in 1947, meaning that from 1948 forward, to be registered as a Tennessee Walking Horse, both parents must also be so registered. The Tennessee Walking Horse was officially recognized as a distinct breed of light horse by the United States Department of Agriculture in 1950. Ranging in size from 15 to 17 hands and averaging 1000 pounds, these horses come in a variety of colors, from bay to black to chestnut.
In 1974 the registry's official name was expanded to the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association.
The TWHBEA instituted new programs in the 1970s to increase markets and uses for its pleasure horses. Its Versatility Program showcases the wide range of capabilities of the Tennessee Walking Horse.
Offering participation in halter, harness, English and Western pleasure, jumping and western events, the Versatility Program provides progressive achievement levels for its participants. The TWHBEA Distance Award Program recognizes those who choose to enjoy their horse as a trail riding mount. This program offers awards to those who spend many hours in the saddle on organized trail rides.
The Voice of the Tennessee Walking Horse magazine is the Associations' official publication and is provided to members as a membership service. The Voice keeps all members, as well as other interested subscribers, informed of industry activities.
The TWHBEA entered the 1990s committed to promoting the Tennessee Walking Horse to the world. With nearly 300,000 horses registered and Association membership approaching 13,000, the Tennessee Walking Horse has firmly established itself as one of the top ten recognized horse breeds in the U. S., and has earned the distinction as the fastest growing breed.
Calm, docile temperament, combined with naturally smooth and easy gaits and immense versatility have insured the Tennessee Walking Horse's role in the equine world. The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association is committed to preserving and promoting this outstanding breed into the next century.
