The American Saddlebred breed began around the time of plantation settlements in the United States near Rhode Island, yet the first breed registry was formed in 1891, long after the breed is first known to exist. This horse was chosen above all breeds during Revolutionary times. Originally this breed was referred to as the Narragansett pacer, which is now extinct. The original breed has become what it is today by the infusion of a few magnificent horses. These horses have given the American Saddlebred many of the traits it now possesses. The early horse show scene was highly dominated by this breed due to its great diverse skills. Today, the showring is still bears a large presence of this breed where they have acquired much of their reputation Currently, they largely populate what is today called the "Saddle Horse Capital of the World" (Kentucky's Shelby County). With great presence and spirit, the American Saddlebred is truly an amazing horse.