Draft Horses

A draft horse or work horse is any breed of horse suited to or used for drawing heavy loads. Draft horses originated in central Europe, where their domestication preceded the Roman invasion. All the breeds are extremely large and are noted for their strength and endurance.

Today the ranch uses Belgian draft horses for haying and performing chores around the ranch. This breed has a long history, dating back to the 15th century when it was exported from Belgium to many European countries. It was not introduced to the United States until the 1800's. The breed is characterized by a husky, barrel like appearance, brute strength, and stands just under 17 hands high, weighing more than 2,000 pounds.

The beaverslide haystacker

Invented in 1908 and patented in 1910 by D.J. Stephens and Herb Armtage of Montana's Big Hole Valley, the beaverslide is an inexpensive and efficient way to dried grass (hay).

1. Sickle Section Mower

The sickle section mower is pulled by two draft horses and cuts the hay.

2. Dump Rake

A "dump rake" rakes the loose hay into nice straight rows called "wind rows."

3. Buck Rake

The buck rake,pushed by two draft horses, scoops up the stacks of hay and places then in the "basket" of the beaverslide stacker.

4. Beaverslide Haystacker

Cables run from each side of the basket up through pulleys at the top corners of the tall frame. Horses pull the cables, the basket slides up the slope, and the hay falls through the opening at the top of the frame.

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