The Budweiser Clydesdale Horses of Merrimack, New Hampshire

A "Slice of Life in New Hampshire" brought to you by your Southern New Hampshire realtor, Rudy Mayer. http://www.RudyMayer.com

The Budweiser Clydesdales are the beverage industry's most recognizable mascots, and you can meet these famous horses by visiting the Anheuser-Busch Brewery right here in Merrimack, New Hampshire.

In 1933, August A. Busch, Jr. gave a hitch of Clydesdales to his father in celebration of the resumption of brewing in St. Louis following the repeal of Prohibition. Clydesdales--a powerful breed of draft horses--originated in the Clyde valley of Scotland, and they are known for the distinctive, feathery hair on their fetlocks--the lower parts of their legs above and behind the hooves.

Originally, farmers living in the 19th century along the banks of the River Clyde in Lanarkshire, Scotland bred the Great Flemish Horse, the forerunner of the Clydesdale. In the mid 1800's, Canadians of Scottis descent brought the first Clydesdales to the United States, where today they are primarily used for breeding and for show.

To qualify for the Budweiser hitch, a Clydesdale must be a gelding at least four years of age. He must stand 6 feet at the shoulder when fully mature, weigh between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds, be bay in color, have four white stocking feet, a blaze of white on the face, and a black mane and tail.

Each harness and collar weighs approximately 130 pounds, and is handcrafted from brass and leather. Pure linen thread is used for the stitching.

Dalmatians have traveled with the Clydesdales since the 1950's. Dalmatians have long been associated with horses and valued for their speed, endurance and dependable nature. Today, the Dalmatians are perched atop the wagon, seated next to the driver.

These high stepping horses make hundreds of public appearances every year, in addition to appearing in television commercials and other Budweiser Beer advertising.

The hitch of Clydesdales here in New Hampshire are just one of several owned by Budweiser, which offers free tours of it's brewery located at 221 Daniel Webster Highway, just off Route 3 at Exit 10.

Visitors are welcome to visit the Clydesdales at their picturesque stables on the property. You can usually find 8-10 Clydesdales at their stables which are open to the public free of charge all year around.

The first Saturday of every month is Clydesdale Camera Day, when visitors have the opportunity to get up close and take plenty of pictures.