John Hankins Wallace
The Horse of America in His Derivation, History, and Development
"The Horse of America in His Derivation, History, and Development" by John H. Wallace is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work meticulously explores the lineage and evolution of the American horse, focusing particularly on its historical roots and development through the ages. Wallace seeks to challenge widely held misconceptions about horse breeds, particularly those concerning the renowned Arabian horse, while illuminating the largely neglected history of horses during the Colonial period in America. The opening of this work sets the stage for an extensive inquiry into the history and ancestry of American horses, emphasizing the author's desire to uncover facts about their lineage that have not been extensively documented before. Wallace introduces his examination by critiquing common narratives regarding the origins of the horse, dismissing the notion that the Arabian breed is superior and asserting that its actual influence on the American horse is minimal. He highlights that much of the existing knowledge surrounding horse history is founded on repetition of previous works, rather than original research. The author expresses satisfaction in the thorough research he has conducted into the equine ancestry and colonial history, intending to provide readers with a more accurate understanding of both the American trotter and the complexities of horse breeding.