The Busch family does not own the Clydesdales. The Clydesdales are actually owned by Anheuser-Busch, a brewing company based in St. Louis, Missouri. The Busch family, however, has a strong historical connection to the Clydesdales as they played a significant role in popularizing and promoting the breed.
The relationship between the Busch family and the Clydesdales dates back to the early 1930s when August A. Busch Jr., the then-president of Anheuser-Busch, received a gift of a team of Clydesdales from his father to celebrate the repeal of Prohibition. Since then, the Busch family has been closely associated with the Clydesdales and has played a pivotal role in their promotion and preservation.
Over the years, the Busch family has helped establish and maintain a breeding program for the Clydesdales, ensuring their continued presence and popularity. Today, Anheuser-Busch owns one of the largest herds of Clydesdale horses in the world, with a total of about 250 Clydesdales. These horses are kept at various locations throughout the United States.
The largest breeding facility for the Clydesdales is located at Warm Springs Ranch near Boonville, Missouri, which is approximately 150 miles west of St. Louis. This facility is open to the public and offers tours, allowing visitors to see the majestic Clydesdales up close and learn more about their history and care.
The Busch family’s involvement with the Clydesdales goes beyond mere ownership. They have actively participated in the breeding, training, and showcasing of these horses. The Clydesdales are often seen as symbols of excellence and tradition, representing the values associated with Anheuser-Busch and the Busch family.
While the Busch family’s role in the Clydesdales is significant, it is important to note that the horses themselves are owned by Anheuser-Busch. The company has made a commitment to preserving and promoting the Clydesdales, ensuring their legacy lives on for generations to come.
While the Busch family has a deep connection to the Clydesdales and has played a crucial role in their promotion and preservation, they do not own the horses themselves. Anheuser-Busch, the brewing company, is the official owner of the Clydesdales and has established a breeding program to maintain and showcase these magnificent horses.