The relatively recent discovery of the Gypsy Vanner horse surprised horse aficionados worldwide. Hidden among the byways of England, gypsies had worked for generations to breed the ideal horse for pulling their caravans, and the gorgeous Gypsy Vanner is the result of those efforts.
History
Desiring a sturdy, eye-catching horse to draw their caravans, several gypsy families began selectively breeding horses after World War Two, with an eye toward the ideal caravan horse. Breeds included the Clydesdale, Shire, and Dales Pony, and attributes of each of these breeds can be seen in present-day Gypsy Vanners. Also evident is that all three breeds share an ancestor among the Friesian horses, another beautiful, elegant horse. Although gypsy caravans exist mostly for recreation and holiday these days, the proud breeders who created the Gypsy Vanner have given the world a gift.