A Personal Tale
Heavy Hitters! Throughout the month of December, we are featuring heavy horses and heavy breed crosses!
Did you know that dressage riders who choose a draft cross as their mounts are eligible for special awards through the Adequan®/USDF All-Breeds Awards program, as the Draft Cross Breeders & Owners Association (among several others for heavy breeds!) is a participating organization?
Here, a Region 6 resident shares her love of a real life fairytale breed, the Black Forest Draft, and how she hopes to promote the breed in the US!
By Lynn Gervais
Hi, I’m Lynn Gervais — orchestra teacher, cellist, runner, mother of two wonderful boys, and now, proud steward of a rare and captivating breed: the Black Forest Draft Horse.
My love for horses began in middle school, but like many passions, it had to take a backseat while I pursued my career in music and education. However, fate had a different plan. During a four-day hike through the mystical Black Forest, a place where centuries-old traditions intertwine with nature’s beauty, I stumbled upon a sight that would change my life forever. It was a herd of dark chestnut horses with flowing flaxen manes, grazing peacefully in the village of Sankt Märgen. It was like walking into a storybook.
At the time, I didn’t know what breed they were, but I promised myself that one day, I would find out.
Years later, in 2017, with land of our own and space to grow, I finally looked up those fairytale horses. What I had seen all those years ago were Black Forest Drafts — a rare and endangered breed with deep roots in Germany. The Black Forest, or “Schwarzwald,” is a mountain range nestled east of the Rhine River, named for its dense, dark green conifer trees, where light struggles to penetrate the thick canopy. The region’s beauty is timeless, a stunning mix of wildflower meadows, dramatic bluffs crowned with castle ruins, pine-covered hills, and idyllic farms. It’s a place where the past and present seem to merge effortlessly, much like the Black Forest Draft itself.
The Black Forest Draft Horses, known as the “Pearls of the Black Forest” in their native land, trace their history back to the early 15th century. Originally bred for farm and forestry work, these horses were crucial for survival during the harsh winters of the highlands. Their ancestors, the Walderpferd — or “forest horses” — helped local farmers work the land, thriving despite the extreme conditions. As centuries passed, the breed evolved, with Black Forest Drafts becoming an indispensable asset to generations of farmers due to their resilience, strength, and versatility.
In the 20th century, however, the mechanization of farming and the effects of World War II caused the breed’s numbers to dwindle. By the 1970s, fewer than 200 mares remained. Today, thanks to dedicated breeding programs at places like the Marbach Stud in Germany, the breed is slowly making a comeback. With the help of other enthusiasts and breeders like Ursula Seidel and Elizabeth Keck, who have worked tirelessly to preserve and promote the Black Forest Drafts in North America, this majestic breed is finding a place in the hearts of those who appreciate its beauty and history.
For me, this journey began with a promise to one day know these horses and eventually, to share them with others. My first Black Forest gelding, Mateo, was found through a wonderful breeder in Idaho. He now lives in the Willamette Valley, continuing to spread joy. A few years later, fate led me to two beautiful mares from the small North American herd, and in late 2022, I was able to import a weanling colt, Dario, directly from Germany.
Dario’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Germany and bred by the Wendel and Schroeder family, his sire, Drachenfels, is a state-approved stallion. As a weanling, Dario made the long journey from Germany to the U.S., arriving in Southern Oregon with the care and dedication of his breeders and a safe, specially designed flight to ensure his well-being. He is now being carefully started in his training, and we look forward to seeing him grow into a wonderful stallion for the future of the breed in North America.
Mirabella, my prized Black Forest Draft mare, is a shining example of the breed’s versatility and talent. In 2025, she had an incredible show season, taking several dressage high point awards throughout the year. Her success in the arena demonstrates how adaptable and competitive this breed can be. At seven years old, she excels in a variety of disciplines, from traditional dressage to working cattle, and even riding on the beach. Her strong, muscular build, combined with her flowing mane and tail, makes her a striking presence. Grooming her is a labor of love, and her gentle disposition makes her the perfect family horse.
I am also proud to have Cici’s Lilianna, a strong and traditional Black Forest mare who has proven to be a phenomenal mother.
As I reflect on my journey with the Black Forest Draft Horses, I can’t help but be humbled by the history, the people, and the horses that have brought me to this point. The breed’s resilience, gentle temperament, and deep connection to their native land and history have left an indelible mark on my heart. These horses, once considered endangered, are now thriving again, thanks to the dedication of breeders and stewards in Germany, and countless others who share a passion for preserving and promoting this enchanting breed.
Super interesting! Best of success to you!