When National Horse Day rolls around, we can’t help but feel an extra pep in our trot. At Palmetto Carriage Works, our horses are so much more than carriage-pulling companions—they’re family, teammates, and the soul of everything we do. These incredible animals aren’t just part of our work; they’re woven into the very fabric of our lives.
A Hoofprint Through History
Imagine a world without horses—it’s almost impossible, isn’t it? Since as early as 4,000 BC, these magnificent creatures have been more than just animals; they’ve been humanity’s partners, shaping the course of history in countless ways. From the dusty plains where ancient civilizations first learned to ride, to the battlefields that forged nations, and the farmlands that sustained generations, horses have stood steadfastly by our side.
Here in Charleston, our horses carry history with every step they take. As they clip-clop along the city’s historic cobblestone streets, they’re doing more than giving visitors a glimpse of our city—they’re preserving its essence. Every turn of the wheel and every rhythmic hoofbeat tells a story, connecting us to the generations who walked these streets before us. These aren’t just carriage horses—they’re living, breathing bridges between the past and present, offering a uniquely Charlestonian experience that’s as rich as it is memorable.
Our Barn, Our Crew
Since 1972, Palmetto Carriage Works has been about so much more than offering carriage rides. For us, our horses are family. We’re not just here to run a business; we’re here to love, protect, and celebrate these incredible animals.
At Palmetto, we take pride in the exceptional care our horses receive. Their well-being is our top priority, and we go to great lengths to ensure they’re happy, healthy, and thriving. Each horse is given ample pasture time to relax and roam, along with regular veterinary checkups, a carefully balanced diet, and custom-fitted equipment to keep them comfortable. We also adhere to strict working conditions to ensure their safety and rest throughout the day.
Every horse has a unique story, personality, and place in our hearts, and we’re honored to care for them as the true stars of Palmetto Carriage Works. Whether they’re carrying visitors through Charleston’s historic streets or enjoying downtime in the pasture, they’re always treated with the respect and love they deserve.
The Characters In Front of the Carriages
Teddy: Our resident drama king who’s secretly a softie. Terrified of garbage trucks but braver than he knows, Teddy’s got a sweet tooth that could rival a kid’s Halloween stash. Strawberries and granola bars? He’s all in!
Bezos: Talk about stubborn! This guy has attitude for days. Getting his bridle on is like negotiating with a toddler, but once he’s working, he’s all business. Pro tip: Bring apples and cookies if you want to be his friend.
Moultrie: Our mysterious guy who can’t make up his mind. Some days he’s your best buddy, other days he’s too cool to care. We never know what we’re gonna get!
America: The barn’s absolute diva. Those big eyes and that killer mohawk? She knows exactly how fabulous she looks. Grandma’s vanilla cookies are her weakness, and she’s not afraid to bat those eyelashes to get them.
Howard: Howard is basically the teddy bear of our barn. This big guy is all about the love – he’ll gladly pose for photos, never turns down a hug, and has a hilarious habit of checking himself out whenever a shiny surface passes by. Got an apple? He’s your instant best friend. Howard’s not just a horse; he’s a total charmer who knows exactly how to steal the spotlight.
O’Malley: The queen bee herself. Sweet as can be, but don’t mess with her royal status. She tolerates the other horses but makes it clear who’s really in charge.
Come Hang with Our Horses
Celebrate National Horse Day with us at Palmetto Carriage Works by visiting The Big Red Barn, and meeting these incredible animals in person. They love making new friends, especially those who come bearing their favorite treats!
Learn more about our team and how we care for our horses at Palmetto Carriage Works. This December 13th, let’s come together to honor the legacy and joy horses bring to our lives.