Proud Meadows has imported a Schwarzwalder stallion and filly from Germany. Also known as the Schwarzwalder Fuchs (Black Forest Chestnut), the breed originated in the fairytale land of southwest Germany’s Black Forest. The breed overall is said to resemble a small Noriker, and may be related to the Haflinger, two other Alpine breeds.

      Our stallion Rondo has the less common pure white mane and tail contrasting with his dark chestnut body- quite showy. He stands at 14.1 H.

The filly, Porta, has the same coloring with a flaxen mane.

      Traditionally used as a strong but compact draught horse in their mountainous native region, the breed survived attempts to crossbreed it out of existence with Belgians in the years after WWI. So favored was it by the local farmers that they secretly bred their mares with purebred stallions. This story reminds us of the similar tale of survival of the Friesian breed after the wars of the last century.

      At the turn of this millennium the number of mares was about 700 with about 45 registered stallions. This number is increasing due to the Schwarzwalder’s increasing value as a leisure horse.

CROSSBREEDINGS AVAILABLE

      Due to the near-complete absence of purebred Schwarzwalders in North America, our stallion is available for crossbreeding. Cobs, Gypsy Vanners, Haflingers, and Norikers are all obvious candidates, but we are willing to entertain any inquiries.

Contact Larry Riggs at Proud Meadows
972-938-8100

June 1, 2005 -

      Dr. Williams from the Lone Star Park Veterinary Center completely reviewed Illiad’s history and current situation. He like, other vets that have looked at him, are very optimistic that Illiad has an opportunity to completely heal and resume his career in riding. Illiad has been sent to rehab at an aqua therapeutic center north of Dallas. He will remain in that therapy for two months. The report to us is that they are pleased with their progress and that he is being an absolute gentleman. We remain optimistic but only time will confirm our optimism.

We will post updates on his progress.

      Illiad’s scores from his shows in Florida are available in our Scores section.

June 1, 2005 -

      Sabine will be relocating permanently to California in December 2005, after the competition year and regional finals in Texas. Naturally, we are sorry to see Sabine leave. However, we like to feel that she is just going to be in another place and she will always be a part of the Proud Meadows family. It is anticipated that Sabine will be accompanied by Tinus and Illiad in December and following shortly thereafter in June 2006, by Bogart. Bogart will be joining them after the stallion performance test and breeding season. We know Sabine will be successful in California and we certainly wish her all the best.

June 1, 2005 -

      We have received a number of emails and phone calls asking us if that is our Jorrit that is in training in Florida. Jorrit, the Great One, is retired and loving life at home, at Proud Meadows, in Waxahachie, Texas. We call him the Great One because he holds that distinction for being the first Friesian stallion ever in the history of the breed for competing at Grand Prix level in Open competition,

      Partnered with Pieter Franken, an experienced importer based in California, Proud Meadows endorses these carriages as having much of the same quality as more expensive European and American carriage models, but at a much more affordable price. Perfect for the regional competitor and pleasure driver. Visit our Sales section for more information.