They’re probably the most iconic animals in all of advertising, yet most of us know almost nothing about them.
We know they regularly break free from their mid-programme stable for a quick prance on the snow during those Budweiser adverts. But there’s a bit more to them than that.
For instance…
They are responsible for the phrase ‘crying in your beer’
A gift from August A. Busch, Jr. and Adolphus Busch to their father in celebration of the repeal of Prohibition, the presentation of the horses moved father, sons and drivers to tears. The phrase “crying in your beer” was officially coined shortly thereafter.
They have a presidential fan base
The Budweiser Clydesdales have figured prominently in two Presidential inaugurations. Harry Truman’s in 1949, and then again for Bill Clinton’s in 1993.
More than just a trademark for Budweiser
The Budweiser Clydesdales made their first-ever appearance on April 7, 1933. They were used as a symbol of celebration after the prohibition ended.
They’re living the good life
The official home of the Budweiser Clydesdales is an ornate brick and stained-glass stable built in 1885 on the historic 100-acre Anheuser-Busch brewery complex in St. Louis.
The breed is originally from this side of the pond
Like many a beautiful mare, the Clydesale can trace its origins all the way back to Scotland. They were first used for farming in the 19th century.
They’re better dressed than you are
Each Clydesdale wears a 130-pound harness handcrafted from solid brass, patent leather and pure linen thread. The harnesses are made to fit a horse of any size, but the collars are tailored specifically for each individual horse.
Clip via Budweiser Ireland.
Their best friends are Dalmatians
Dalmatians have travelled with the Clydesdale wagon for over 60 years now, running between the wheels of the carriages and providing companion ship for the horses as they journeyed around. Nowadays the Dalmatians travel perched atop the hitch, sat next to the driver.
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