About us
About Colorado Draft Horse Association
The Colorado Draft Horse Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, preserving, and celebrating the legacy of draft horses across our great state.
Our mission is to educate the public, support responsible draft horse ownership, and create opportunities for community engagement through events, clinics, and shared experiences. From heritage farming to modern-day parades and wagon rides, we believe these gentle giants have a vital role in Colorado’s story.
Whether you’ve worked with draft horses for decades or recently welcomed your first team, we invite you to join our growing community of owners who are passionate about preserving and celebrating these incredible animals.
The History of the Colorado Draft Horse Association
Submitted by Dennis and Marje Speicher
How it all began………………..
The Larimer County Fair had asked draft horse owners to put on exhibitions at the fair during the rodeos. Various draft owners had done this, and in August of 1977, several gathered under the grandstands and discussed starting a club for draft horse enthusiasts. Among those present were Lawrence Starck, Boots Gindler, Dennis Speicher, Corky Keen, and Allen Box. (We apologize if we overlooked anyone!)
After future discussions and phone calls, the first meeting was held at the Farmers National Bank in Ault, Colorado, on Feb 4, 1978. Allen Box was the spokesperson for the meeting. The name “Mountain and Plains Draft Horse and Mule Association” was finally chosen for the club name. First officers were: Allen Box, President: Boots Gindler, Vice-President: Lois Hicklin, Secretary: Bud Hicklin, Treasurer: Margaret Box, Reporter. The group voted to charge $7.50 annually for dues. The club continued to meet in Ault through 1978. In January 1979, the meetings moved to the Berthoud National Bank in Berthoud, Co.
Colorado Draft Horse Association Timeline
February 1979 – Harold Tonn, a member from Kansas, suggested we try to get draft horses in the National Western Stock Show. And Boots Gindler suggested a newsletter be started for communication.
May 1979 – The club selected their first queen (that’s what we called them then). Juliet Harrington was selected to represent the club.
June 1979 – The club formed a committee to draft a Constitution.
September 1979 – The club voted on the first Constitution.
October 1979 – The club started the first discussions about insurance coverage.
January 1981 – A committee was formed to look at ways of expanding the club.
January 1981 – First NWSS with Draft Horse classes
February 1981 – Motion was made to form a committee to investigate possibilities of a state wide club.
September 1982 – The Club voted to change the name of the club to “Mountain and Plains Draft Horse and Mule Association”.
December 1984 – Western Slope members declared interest in forming a chapter to ours.
September 1985 – Other chapters in the state now join together for the state association.
