With a lifelong foundation in the Morgan horse world, Barb (Moriesian Horse Registry founder) grew up in New England riding and competing with Morgans. For more than 25 years, she has been dedicated to breeding Moriesians, beginning in the late 1990s when she first crossed Morgan and Friesian lines. Her goal was to develop a versatile sport horse with greater bone than the Morgan, while preserving balanced conformation and trainability. She was especially drawn to the breed’s combination of sensible minds and willing dispositions.

Having consistently registered her Morgan horses, Barb sought to do the same for this emerging crossbreed. At the time, the only available registry was owned by Betty Pace of Dark Knight Friesians in Ogden, Utah. Established in 1996 as the “Morisian Horse Registry,” it had, to that point, registered only Betty’s horses.

In 1997, Barb assumed ownership of the registry and established a clear vision for its future. She refined the name to “Moriesian,” now recognized as the breed's defining name, and developed the registry’s Rules and Bylaws. She also implemented DNA testing requirements—an important step in preserving the integrity and consistency of the breed.

Today, several larger Friesian cross registries include Moriesians, but the Moriesian Horse Registry remains intentionally dedicated to this specific breed development. The MHR community is made up of dedicated, enthusiastic owners and breeders who share a deep appreciation for the horse. A common sentiment heard from those encountering a Moriesian for the first time is simple: “I want one.” It is this genuine admiration—and the joy the breed inspires—that continues to advance its legacy.

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The Friesian horse reportedly dates back 3000 years though the horse we know today was developed in the twelfth century in northern Europe. Friesians were ridden by the Teutonic Knights and used as war horses for the crusades. They could carry large loads, exist on meager rations, and were agile enough to be effective in battle.

The Friesian is a heavy bodied, black, up-headed horse with an expressive face, high-set neck and outstanding crest. Their manes and tails are luxuriant and long and they have feathering from the knees down. They are intelligent, sweet natured and willing. Their powerful elastic gait, grace and agility make them excellent at dressage, driving and jousting.

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Morgans originated with Justin Morgan, a dark bay stallion born around 1789 in Springfield Massachusetts. He is thought to have been of Thoroughbred extraction but speculation includes possible Arabian and Friesian heritage. Justin Morgan was known for his strength, speed and stamina. The breed grew and spread quickly as thrifty New Englanders recognized these qualities stamped into the offspring

The Morgan is easily recognized having an attractive head set on a muscular crested neck. They have strong shoulders, short strong legs and are both flexible and maneuverable. Morgans are known for their versatility: they excel in park and pleasure riding or driving, dressage, jumping, trail, western, and cutting. Their stamina makes them excellent endurance horses.

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The Moriesian Horse is the result of a breeding program initiated in the United States during the mid-1900’s to produce horses that combine the elegance and charisma of the Friesian with the versatility of the Morgan. They display an up-headed stature, expressive face, compact body and long thick mane and tail. Their slope of shoulder and movement tends to be more Friesian-like which gives them a regal appearance. Their average size of 15.0 to 16.0 hands makes them comfortable for most riders.

Lighter boned than a Friesian, Moriesians have more of the qualities sought after in a sport horse. The balance and symmetry of this animal is truly art in motion. They make natural show animals that are magnificent to watch, ride and drive. Many have shown themselves to excel in combined driving competitions and have proven apt competitors in classical dressage.

Moriesians are adaptable and eager to perform. Coming from two breeds known for their heart, mild manners, and friendly dispositions Moriesians make wonderful family horses. The breed is honest and willing to please. Its versatility brings lasting value to the owner.

Head And Neck

The head should show a balance of Friesian nobility and Morgan refinement; the eyes expressive and soft, the face straight or slightly dished and short. The ears should be small and upright with turned in tips.

The neck should rise from a high set on the withers and show a clean arch to an upright head set. The throatlatch should be refined to allow flexion. The appearance is regal. The withers should be defined yet blend into both neck and back cleanly.