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[Clansgian AT wmconnect.com]

> >I would imagine that James would be your best bet in this regard.

Maybe not, because here is what I'd say:

Homesteader types get too wrapped up in the minutia of breeds as if raising 
South Albanian Flathead ducks would make or break the flock rather than East 
Slabovian Blue Foots.  What applies to all ducks is 98% of it and that is 
what 
makes or breaks the operation.

Same goes for draft horses.  While it's a lot of fun to bloviate over this or 
that breed, what makes or breaks the experience with the horse is not the 
breed.  For that,  really any horse will do.  Any horse that you train to the 
harness will do all anyone needs done around a homestead.  If the horse is 
small, 
you will need two or more.

I have a Belgian.  He is a wonderful soul, but he is an overkill.  He weighs 
2000 lbs and scarcely bats an eye at hauling oak logs out of the woods, much 
less be concerned in the least with a plow or forecart.  I have him because 
he 
cost me very little.  By the bye, it does not cost twice as much to keep a 
2000lb horse as a 1000 lb horse.  The feed and pasture they need for 
maintenance 
is scarcely different.

Especially if you are starting out, don't split hairs over the breed.  But 
that's what I say about all farmstead livestock.

Also don't limit your possibilities to horses.  Mules are generally more 
expensive but donkeys, especially Mammoths, are less expensive than horses 
and are 
wonderful and flexible draft animals.

If you've got a deep purse, have fun mulling over breeds.  If you haven't, 
keep your eyes open for whatever.  Any horse is a potential draft animal.

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