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Missouri Traveler E

MISSOURI TRAVELER E.

1971-1997

Missouri Traveler E, by Zane Grey out of Lady Anne was a chestnut sorrel colt born on Dean Esther’s farm in 1971.  When fox trotting, words fail to describe the rhythm that flowed through the stallion’s body from his head to his tail.  Traveler never won a World Grand Championship, but he was part of perhaps one of the greatest Celebration championship shows in history in 1975.

In 1979, Traveler was sold to Lee Hodge and Donald Cunningham.  Donald said, “You can pick out a Missouri Traveler bred horse in the show ring.  They have a certain head shake, rhythm, and timing.  It’s unique.”

In 1981, Traveler was sold to Curtice Williams and Jerry Middleton, who bought him with plans to syndicate him.  This was done with Doug Montgomery’s help for a total of 44 shares, which sold for $2,000 each, making the stallion worth $88,000.  This syndication closed the breeding to all but the shareholders.

It has been said that Missouri Traveler set the standard for the breed.  His natural fox trot, his rhythm, his color, his hip, and his rooster tail carriage were repeatedly passed on to his foals, who won many championships.

Traveler died, just short of his 26th birthday in 1997.  He is buried just north of the main arena on the MFTHBA show grounds.  His grave marker reads, “The Sire”.  Because of his contributions to the Missouri Fox trotting Horse Breed and upon the recommendation of the MFTHBA Board of Directors, we would like to welcome Missouri Traveler E into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame.

Editor’s Note:  Missouri Traveler E. was inducted into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame in 2013.  The above was read by MFTHBA Joyce Graening during the induction ceremony held during the 2013 World Show and Celebration