Clydesdales

American Icons

They heralded a new era of prosperity for Anheuser-Busch, and a weary nation’s return to optimism. From their first appearance in 1933 to their enduring presence on the American landscape, the Clydesdales are more than the symbol of Budweiser beer; they are the living embodiment of America’s great industrial spirit.

QUINTESSENTIAL DRAFT HORSES

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.

ORIGINS

DRAWING BEER AND CROWDS

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.

A CLYDESDALEʼS BEST FRIEND

QUINTESSENTIAL DRAFT HORSES

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.

ORIGINS

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.

DRAWING BEER AND CROWDS

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.

A CLYDESDALEʼS BEST FRIEND

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.

BREWERY EXPERIENCES COME FOR THE TOUR, STAY FOR THE BEER

Our Farmers

Nearly 100% of our barley comes from America’s Farmers
We’re investing billions in cutting-edge innovations
Working hand-in-hand with American farmers to raise the next generation of barley

LEARN ABOUT OUR FARMERS

Our Legacy

Our founder, Adolphus Busch, journeyed to America from Germany in 1857, determined to make his dreams come true.
After fighting for the Union during the Civil War, Adolphus joined his father-in-law’s business, bringing big, ambitious ideas with him.
In 1879, the company’s name was officially changed to Anheuser-Busch Brewing Association. After Eberhard’s passing in 1880, Adolphus became president.
Before Budweiser was introduced, many Americans were drinking heavy, dark ales. But St. Louis summers were hot – perfect for a palatable, crisp lager.
Budweiser’s smoothness and drinkability was a success. Budweiser quickly became wildly popular not just in St. Louis, but in America. And we’ve stayed true to the recipe ever since.