The Morgan Horse, America's first national breed, sprang from one bay stallion, "Figure", who is believed to have been foaled near Springfield, Massachusetts, in the American northeast in 1789. His parentage is somewhat of a mystery. Some stories say the bay colt was given in part payment of a debt to a poor music teacher, Justin Morgan, who took the horse home to Randolph, Vermont. Others say Justin Morgan bred the colt himself. Figure was subsequently used for farm work, clearing land and also ran and won many races both under saddle and in harness.

Later, Figure became known as 'the Justin Morgan horse’ and then 'Justin Morgan'. Figure put his stamp on his progeny, passing on his willing nature, intelligence, strength and speed to his offspring irrespective of their dam. His progeny became known as Morgan horses.

Today, Morgan horses are much loved for their courage and generosity, and for their stylish appearance; they are also greatly respected for their strength, stamina and intelligence. The average size of a Morgan is between 14.2hh to 15.2hh, with some individuals over or under. Morgans have a natural high action, a high-held crested neck, a well defined head with small ears, large, widely spaced eyes, a slightly dished nose and a small muzzle. Their bodies are compact with well-sprung ribs, well-muscled hindquarters and chest, and a short back.

Morgans have been crossed successfully with many breeds and as the Morgan horse is so prepotent, part breeds usually resemble the Morgan part of their breeding more than the non-Morgan.