Table of Contents
The history of the Friesian horse begins in the northern province of Friesland in the Netherlands. The Friesian horse belongs to one of the oldest domesticated horse breeds in Europe. The Friesian is known for its distinctive black coat, long mane, expressive movement, and historical significance in agriculture, warfare, and sport.
Origins and Historical Use
In Friesland, native horses were used for general riding and work. According to military records, troops from Friesland rode native horses, the ancestors of modern Friesians, in the 4th century AD. Military use of these horses continued in the Middle Ages, when knights rode them into battle. The breed was recognized for its strength, usefulness, and reliability in warfare. Illustrations depicting Friesian ancestors date back to the 11th century AD, showing early representations in the history of the Friesian horse.
During the Middle Ages, warriors returning from the Crusades with Arabian horses introduced eastern Arabian influence to the Friesian breed. In the 16th and 17th centuries and perhaps earlier, Friesians were bred with Andalusian horses imported from Spain. This influence contributed to their elevated knee action, small head, and elegant neck. These characteristics are still visible in Friesian horses today.
Trotting Role
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Friesians were popular as trotting horses in Friesland. They were raced for shorter distances, for example, 325 meters. As of 1979, it is believed that between 1800 and 1850, over 2,800 newspaper advertisements were printed to promote races. Races first were on horseback, but then began to include the “sjees,” a distinctive carriage the Friesians pulled.
The carriage’s name “sjees” may derive from the French “chaise” to indicate a “chair on wheels.” The carriage’s small body is suspended high above the ground, with wheels 1.5 m high or more. Much of the carriage is painted white, and the body may show elaborate painting, carving, and gilding (Wikipedia). Today, the carriage will carry a gentleman and lady dressed in traditional 1860s costume. The gentleman will wear a black top hat and sit on the left. The lady will sit on his right, in the position of honor. Reenactments of the carriages being driven can serve as a living history of the Friesian horse.
In what would become the United States, Friesians were imported as early as 1625. Newspaper ads from 1795 and 1796 offered “trotters of ‘Dutch’ descent” (fhana.com) that probably were Friesians.
This period saw an interesting change in the history of the Friesian horse. Their use evolved from agriculture, general riding, and warfare to a sporting use.
Decline, Studbook Formation, and Recovery
By the late 19th century, the breed had gone out of fashion. By 1902, only 15 “approved” Friesian stallions remained in Friesland. Crossbreeding nearly eliminated purebreds and marked a crisis point in the history of the Friesian horse.
In 1879, the Studbook began in the Netherlands. It included a Book A for Friesian horses and a Book B for crossbreds. Because crossbreeding was so extensive, in 1907 the books were combined into one book. But in 1913 a small group founded “The Friesian Horse” society and began to work in cooperation with the Studbook, to maintain and improve the Friesian breed. This marked a crucial turning point in the history of the Friesian horse.
In 1914 the Studbook decided (at the society’s request) to once more divide the book. Book A again would be for Friesians and Book B would now be for “Upland” horses. The division went into effect in 1915. Breeders of non-Friesians left the Studbook in 1943, and from then on only purebred Friesians would be listed. The Studbook would receive “royal” designation in 1954 and become “The Royal Society [of] The Friesian Studbook.” This designation and these years marked a significant recovery period in the history of the Friesian horse.
International Expansion
In the mid- to late 20th century, Friesian horses were brought to other countries. In 1974, 1975, and 1977, a total of nine Friesians were brought to North America, where the Friesian Horse Association of North America (FHANA) was founded in the early 1980s. FHANA partners with the Royal Friesian Horse Studbook (KFPS) to oversee registration and inspection.
Today, Friesian horses are found in 70 or more countries. FHANA continues to promote education, events, and the responsible breeding of Friesians in North America.
Breed Characteristics
Friesian horses are known for their solid black color, long mane and tail, and feathering on the lower legs. White markings are not allowed, except for a small “star” on the forehead. The typical height ranges from 15.2 to 16 hands (60.8 to 64 inches from the ground to the withers). The breed is also known for its kind temperament, willingness to work, and intelligence.
Health and Genetic Concerns
The Friesian horse has a limited genetic pool, which makes it more prone to certain conditions. Health issues include:
- Dwarfism
- Hydrocephalus
- Megaesophagus
- Aortic rupture
Because of these concerns, responsible breeders use genetic testing and follow guidelines set by the KFPS and FHANA. Stallions must undergo rigorous inspection and health screening before being approved for breeding.
Use in Sport and Culture
Today, Friesians are used in a variety of disciplines. They are seen in dressage, driving competitions, parades, and exhibitions. FHANA hosts events that showcase the breed’s abilities and promote community involvement.
The breed is also popular in film and television. Its striking appearance and calm nature make it ideal for performances and on-screen roles. In the history of the Friesian horse, its use has not only encompassed agriculture, transport, warfare, and sport, but now includes modern media presence.
Preservation Efforts
FHANA and the KFPS work to maintain the integrity of the Friesian breed through education, inspections, and strict standards. These organizations promote careful breeding practices to reduce genetic disorders and ensure the breed’s long-term survival.
Thanks to the efforts of dedicated breeders and associations, the Friesian horse has moved from near extinction to global recognition.
Conclusion
The history of the Friesian horse reflects its elegance, strength, and adaptability. From early battlefield use to modern dressage arenas, the Friesian has remained a symbol of heritage and resilience. With continued support from FHANA, KFPS, and the international community, Friesians can remain a treasured breed for generations to come.
At The Farm at Brookside, we strive to preserve and advance the history of the Friesian horse through our breeding services, our Keuring preparation programs, and our rehabilitation capability.
Sources:
Cochran, Caroline (Author), Darani, Priska (Reviewer), Kellon, Eleanor (Veterinary Reviewer). “Friesian Horse Breed Guide: Characteristics, Health, and Nutrition.” madbarn.com. 1 May 2025 (Updated), 7 November 2023 (Published). https://madbarn.com/friesian-horse-breed-profile/?srsltid=AfmBOooU-WHxITrEIC2PpQUzS4PUL7BoPC673Al57g4kTN0Q6jsICm8u.
FHANA (Friesian Horse Association of North America). “Friesian History,” Extract from Het Friese Paard by G. J. A. Bouma, 1979. fhana.com. Accessed 10 June 2025. https://fhana.com/the-friesian-horse/friesian-history/#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20chronicle%20of,for%20mourning%20coaches%20in%20London.
