Hackney

Public roadways in Britain were improved with the development of the Hackney breed of horse.  Known and used most for high tech carriage driving and riding, wealthy farmers in Britian were responsible for breeding the Hackney.

The Hackney breed originated in Norfolk, England, with the breeding of Norfolk Trotters with Thoroughbreds.  The first Hackney was foaled in 1760.

As ships crossed the waters in the 1800's, Hackneys and smaller ponies were being imported and exported.

As the roadway of Britain was improved, and it was not necessary for draft animals that could pull carts through deep ruts and potholes, the Hackney horses could be used to trot to market.  often, farmers could be seen racing their horses to the market on the new, improved roads, and while riding the fast Hackney breed of horses.

In 1883, the Hackney Stud Book Society was formed to formalize breeding of Hackneys in England.  In America and Britain during the 1880's, the Hackney was the ultimate horse for driving.