Justin Morgan Had a Horse

In the late 18th century, America was a land of vast wilderness and rugged frontier life. The year is 1790, and the small town of Rutland in Vermont is the setting for a tale of chance encounters, perseverance, and the development of a legendary horse breed. The story follows the lives of Justin Morgan, a young man of humble means, and his journey to create an enduring legacy that would bear his name. Justin Morgan, a gifted lawyer and poet, had arrived in Rutland with a dream of building a better life for himself. He was an ambitious individual with a passion for poetry and music, and it is said that his love for artistry often spilled over into his business ventures. As a result, Morgan soon gained a reputation as a successful lawyer and entrepreneur. His sharp wit, impressive public-speaking skills, and strong work ethic made him a respected figure in the community. However, it is not his professional achievements that will become the cornerstone of his legacy. Morgan's real claim to fame originated in his encounter with a small, unassuming horse by the name of Figure, the latter's actual name before being renamed by Morgan. At the time, Figure was known for its strength, tenacity, and unyielding spirit, making it an asset to the many travelers and traders passing through Rutland. It is here, amidst the bustling town and surrounding wilderness, where Morgan's chance encounter with Figure would change the course of history. Initially, Morgan and Figure form a bond built on mutual respect, rather than the more traditional relationship between an owner and horse. Morgan, drawn to the animal's unbridled energy and strength, sees great potential in Figure. Recognizing an opportunity to capitalize on the horse's exceptional qualities, Morgan decides to invest his time and resources into training Figure for a series of endurance tests and competitions. The early stages of Figure's training are not without their challenges. The horse's strong will and untamed spirit often prove difficult for Morgan to manage. However, their bond deepens as Morgan learns to harness Figure's energy and adapt to its temperament. With each passing day, the two form a strong and lasting partnership that would ultimately contribute to the creation of the foundation sire of the Morgan Horse breed. Figure's innate ability to thrive in challenging environments and its ability to endure long periods of intense physical activity eventually catch the attention of local breeders and horse enthusiasts. As news of the exceptional horse begins to spread, Morgan starts to receive offers from various parties interested in acquiring Figure. However, knowing the potential that lies within Figure, Morgan decides to keep the horse by his side and continues to shape its destiny. A combination of circumstance and the harsh realities of frontier life soon force Morgan to relocate Figure. The horse is eventually passed to a group of skilled local breeders, the Stowe and Brown families, who, in turn, contribute to the breeding program designed to perpetuate Figure's exceptional qualities. The eventual birth of a new line of descendants, bred by combining Figure with other prominent female horses, marked the start of a remarkable chapter in American equine history. Over the next several generations, the direct descendants of the original Figure would go on to become renowned throughout the United States for their versatility, intelligence, and impressive athleticism. Morgan's influence on the horse breed, now known as the Morgan Horse, is multifaceted and far-reaching. His partnership with Figure represents the cornerstone of the breed, and it is his unwavering commitment to the development and preservation of this legacy that ensures its survival. As the film nears its conclusion, a poignant sense of closure emerges. Morgan, who had once been driven by ambition and a desire to succeed, finds himself at peace with the knowledge that a lasting legacy has been created. His connection with Figure transcends the traditional bounds between an owner and a horse, instead showcasing the true essence of partnership and companionship. Through their journey together, Morgan and Figure pave the path for generations to come, their lives intertwined with the story of an enduring equine legacy. In a testament to Morgan's enduring spirit and creative vision, his legacy endures through the iconic Morgan Horse breed. From its early beginnings as a fledgling horse, bred from chance and circumstance, to its widespread recognition as an exceptional and intelligent animal, the breed embodies many of the qualities that Morgan had hoped to instill in Figure over two centuries ago.