Colorado Ranger - Breed History

Breed History

The Colorado Ranger Horse Association is one of the oldest horse registries in the United States, having been founded in 1938.

This breed was developed by Mike Ruby, who kept meticulous records on every foal he bred. These records include foaling dates, coat patterns and complete pedigrees. The handwritten ledgers that Ruby made are still in existence today and all CRHA horses are still recorded by hand in these ledgers. Modern files are also kept.

One of the great triumphs that came to Mike Ruby during his colorful lifetime was the personal invitation that was extended to him in 1934 by the National Western Stock Show Commission in Denver to bring a pair of his Colorado Ranger stallions to the National Western for exhibition in the Coliseum. The horses chosen (Leopard and Fox) created a distinct sensation and caught the approving eye of the Colorado State University faculty members who urged the adoption of the name, Colorado Rangers - Colorado horses bred under range conditions. Thus the breed was officially named.

Ruby founded the CRHA in 1935 with charter in 1938 and was its first president until his death. The Association is still registering horses with the blood of Patches and Max in their lineage. The Home office has moved many times over the past 50 plus years. The CRHA is now officed in Pennsylvania. The CRHA holds an annual National Show and moves its location for the convenience of its members. During the weekend event the members not only enjoy a two day show with almost 70 classes, but they can attend the National membership meeting, the Banquet and the CRHA auction. Besides these activities, the members enjoy just plain good camaraderie. The CRHA is a family of members who enjoy their horses and the company of other Rangerbred people. This week-end event is not only a Show but a family reunion of sorts.