More than 300 years ago, this

imposing breed was first

developed for farm work in the

region of Clydesdale, Scotland.

They are most easily

recognized for their substantial

feather - the long hairs of the

lower leg that cover the

hooves. Despite a dressy

appearance, they are capable

of pulling a 1-ton load at 5 MPH.

The Budweiser Clydesdales

made their first-ever

appearance on April 7, 1933. A

gift from August A. Busch, Jr.

and Adolphus Busch to their

father in celebration of the

repeal of Prohibition, the

presentation of the original two

six-horse hitches of champion

Clydesdales moved father, sons

and drivers to tears.

No strangers to television

broadcasts and parades, the

Budweiser Clydesdales have

figured prominently in two

Presidential inaugurations.

They appeared in Missouri

native Harry Truman’s

inaugural parade in 1949, and

then again for Bill Clinton’s in

1993.

In 1950, the Budweiser

Clydesdales received their very

own mascot: the Dalmatian.

Traditionally used to guide

horse-drawn fire carts,

this spotted dog serves as friend

and companion to the team,

sitting aside the driver. To see

if they are visiting near you,

check out the hitch schedule.