This unique breed of horse has a lot of interesting characteristics that make it stand out from other horses.
In this post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Carolina Marsh Tackies, from their history to their temperament.
So if you’re curious about this interesting breed, keep reading!
Carolina Marsh Tacky Breed Info
Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Carolina Marsh Tacky horse:
| Height (size) | 13.2 – 15.0 hands high |
| Colors | Dun, bay, roan, chestnut, black and grullo with some exhibiting primitive markings such as dorsal stripes, and zebra leg striping |
| Country of Origin | United States of America (South Carolina) |
| Common Uses | Pleasure and trail riding, endurance competitions, farm work, hunting, Revolutionary war and Civil war reenactments |
Carolina Marsh Tacky Facts & Information (Breed Profile)
South Carolina is home to a rare strain/breed of the colonial Spanish horse known as the Marsh Tacky.
During the Seven Years War in the middle of the 18th century, more Spanish horses were imported to the colonies.
Throughout the subsequent centuries, the Marsh Tacky has continued to live in seclusion on the Sea Islands and in the Low-country.
They continued to change through time and became more suited to the wet and muddy conditions that prevailed in that area, so the modern Marsh Tacky is unrivaled in its ability to withstand the region’s heat and muck.
The Marsh Tacky was a popular choice for southern forces during the Civil War, and the fact that soldiers were able to use their own horses instead of those given by the government gave them an early edge.
During World War II, the United States Coast Guard used Marsh Tackies in their beach patrol unit to look for enemy U-boats and other maritime intrusions.
They used to be able to roam around freely by the hundreds over the South Carolina Sea Islands and Low-country, but as tractors, trucks, and modern development took the place of horsepower, their numbers began to dwindle until they were on the verge of extinction.
The Carolina Marsh Tacky Association was established in 2007 with the goal of conserving the breed and educating people about its history.
Horse lovers and owners are doing their best to prevent the extinction of the breed.
Both the Livestock Conservancy and the Equus Survival Trust list Marsh Tackies as severely endangered since there are only around 400 of them left.
In 2010, the Marsh Tacky was designated as the official state horse of South Carolina.
And, what’s with the odd name? “Tacky” is an old-fashioned term meaning “common.”
Marsh Tackies were the Low-country’s most popular horse, owned by almost every household and family.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!
Alternative Names
n/a
Temperament/Personality
Gentle nature, level-headed, sharp mind, adaptable
Physical Characteristics
The head is usually flat or slightly concave, becoming mildly convex from the nasal region to the top of the muzzle.
The forehead is wide and the eyes are set well apart.
The neck attaches low on the chest, and the withers are pronounced.
The back is strong and short, and the croup is steeply angled.
The chest is narrow and deep.
The shoulder is long and angled.
The legs have long tapering muscling.
The mains and tails are long.
Marsh Tackies have a unique gait unlike any other breed that was recently named the Swamp Fox Trot, and the Carolina Marsh Tacky Association was given the unique opportunity to name the gait.
Colors
Dun, bay, roan, chestnut, black and grullo with some exhibiting primitive markings such as dorsal stripes, and zebra leg striping
Height (size)
13.2 – 15.0 hands high
Stallions
n/a
Mares
n/a
Weight
700 – 900 lbs (320 – 410 kg)
Blood Type
Warm
Common Uses
Pleasure and trail riding, endurance competitions, farm work, hunting, Revolutionary war and Civil war reenactments
Health
n/a
Popular Traits
Their unique gait
Feeding/Diet
Easy keepers
Country of Origin
United States of America (South Carolina)
Ancestors
Spanish colonial horses