Justin Morgan Had a Horse
by Marguerite Henry · Grade 4-6 · Ages Ages 8-12
In early Vermont, a schoolteacher named Justin Morgan receives a small, sturdy colt as payment for a debt. At first the colt does not look special, but his strength, spirit, and speed soon make people take notice.
Key vocabulary
A colt is a young male horse. It is like a horse kid.
A stallion is a grown male horse. Stallions are often strong and spirited.
A harness is a set of straps put on a horse so it can pull a cart or wagon. It helps the horse work safely.
To trot means to move faster than a walk but not as fast as a run. Horses often trot with a bouncy rhythm.
A pasture is a grassy field where animals can eat and roam. Horses love a good pasture.
A blacksmith is a person who works with hot metal. Long ago, blacksmiths often made and fixed horseshoes.
A sleigh is a vehicle that slides over snow instead of rolling on wheels. Horses can pull sleighs in winter.
A pedigree is a record of an animal’s parents and family line. It helps people learn where a horse comes from.