BEN & LINDA CORSON
How it all began...
Welcome to our farm! We're Ben and Linda Corson, a couple who sought a life in harmony with nature, growing food, and reducing our dependence on the cash economy. Our journey began nearly 50 years ago when we moved to the beautiful countryside of North Idaho in our early twenties. Our first home was on the West Side Road, adjacent to a large grain farm that is now a part of the wildlife refuge. Ah, the memories of 1974! Our love for horses and the adventures they bring didn't come until much later, after we settled into our new location in 1983 and acquired the final 57 acres in the North. It was here, after winding down a commercial hog operation, that we found ourselves captivated by the idea of preserving rare and endangered breeds of domestic livestock. Our aim was to make a difference for the future, envisioning a return to smaller family farms and rejuvenated rural communities as the mechanization and commoditization of agriculture inevitably changed. When cheap fossil energy became scarce and input costs soared, our curiosity turned to draft horses. Not only are they magnificent creatures, but the art of working horses in harness fascinated us. We believed that draft horse farming could not only help save the Earth but also revive the vibrant traditional rural cultures we hold dear. Of course, our idealism and romantic notions made our endeavor much grander than we could have ever imagined. It became a journey of constant learning and unwavering commitment. Our dedication led us to the American Cream Draft Horse, the rarest of all the draft breeds in North America. The decision to focus on this breed came with numerous challenges. Our first Cream was a stud colt we purchased from a breeder in Bend, Oregon. We then acquired our first fillies from a Cream member in Northern Mississippi. At the time, there were only around 90 Creams in the Registry, with less than half of them of breeding age, scattered across the United States. Our pursuit took us on many memorable trips, where we met incredible people and encountered horses in places as diverse as Minnesota, Virginia, California, Tennessee, Michigan, and, of course, Iowa—the birthplace of the breed in the early 20th century. Travel became essential not only to find these rare horses but also to equip our farm with the horse-drawn tools that were once commonplace. We acquired various implements such as loose hay loaders, disc harrows, hillside plows, a grain binder and threshing machine, potato planters and diggers, corn huskers, shredders, corn binders, belt grain mills, shellers, and so much more! Initially, we had only one small garden shed for our horses, and our hay storage was limited to a pole barn primarily used for machinery. Recognizing the need to address these limitations, Ben took it upon himself to design a barn that would cater to all our equine needs. The result was a remarkable structure featuring stalls, runs, an upper hay mow, and a U-shaped alley spacious enough for a tractor or a team with a manure spreader. But that's not all! The barn also boasts an office area, complete with a transfer switch for a generator, a bathroom, a vet room with stocks and a horse laundry, a harness room, and even a farrier and feed supplement room. To top it all off, a full-sized carriage house for vehicles adjoins the barn, accompanied by an additional room on the ground level for more harnesses and tack. And above these spaces, you'll find a cozy 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom living quarters for the barn staff and family. In the late summer of 1998, we broke ground on this magnificent barn. It took us the entire summer and well into the fall to complete the necessary groundwork. We carefully installed utilities, completed grading and hardscaping, and poured concrete footings and foundation walls, ensuring they were 4 feet deep to withstand frost. The barn itself was a testament to our dedication, constructed with timber beams sourced from our very own land. While we did incorporate some factory-built trusses, the larger ones above the hay mow required the assistance of a crane all the way from Libby, Montana. Those impressive upper trusses sat proudly over 40 feet from the ground, with the ridge cap reaching nearly 50 feet high. By February 1999, the roof metal was securely fastened, marking the official completion of the barn's structure. It wasn't long before the space was bustling with the presence of our beloved horses and their finely crafted harnesses. We even had stall gate doors crafted through the artistry of plunge-cut chainsaw carpentry. As the years passed, our farm continued to grow and evolve. We added more outbuildings, expanded our fencing, improved our water supply, and embraced every opportunity to fulfill our dream of a self-sufficient farm and a thriving draft horse operation. Reflecting upon our humble beginnings on this property, it's truly overwhelming to see how much has changed over the past 30 years. None of it would have been possible without the unwavering support of our children, dedicated friends, and the skilled local contractors and tradesmen who lent their expertise. As time went on, even our grandchildren played a significant role in helping shape and sustain our endeavors over the past decade. It has been an incredible adventure, and we eagerly anticipate the future transformations of our farm and family in the next 30 years! Thank you for taking the time to learn about our farm. We look forward to welcoming you into our warm and vibrant community, where the love for nature, horses, and sustainable farming practices thrives. Come and join us on this incredible journey!
NICK & TIFFANY CORSON
Raised on the family farm, Nick Corson is the 2nd generation to live and work the Corson's property in beautiful North Idaho. Nick married his high school sweetheart, Tiffany and the two were married in the hay loft of the family barn. In the years that followed Nick and Tiffany raised 2 wonderful boys, Bradly & Brint. The boys are grown and pursuing dreams of their own while Tiffany works full time with the Corson's horse operations.
AMERICAN CREAM DRAFT HORSES
Welcome to the fascinating world of American Cream Draft Horses! These majestic creatures hold a special place in American history as the only draft horse breed developed right here in the United States. Allow us to take you on a journey to discover the remarkable story of these incredible horses. It all began in the early 1900s in Iowa when a cream-colored draft mare named Old Granny stole the hearts of those who laid eyes on her. She was sold at a farm auction in Story County and her cream offspring caught the attention of a few breeders in Iowa. The real breakthrough came with the birth of Silver Lace, Old Granny's great-great-grandson, in 1932. Silver Lace stood tall at 16 hands and weighed an impressive 2,200 pounds. The cream draft horses gained popularity in the counties surrounding Melbourne, Iowa during the 1930s. One passionate owner, Clarence T. Rierson, went above and beyond to preserve this unique strain. He meticulously researched the ancestry of each cream horse and recorded their pedigrees. Rierson played a pivotal role in establishing the American Cream Draft Horse Association, which was officially chartered in 1944 with 20 members and 75 foundation horses in the registry. The association's first milestone was achieved when a class dedicated to American Cream Draft Horses was introduced at the Webster City, IA Fair in the same year. It was an exciting moment as these magnificent horses were showcased as a breed of their own. Sadly, the market for draft horses faced a significant decline due to the rise of agricultural mechanization. Many workhorses were sent to slaughter, and the breeding of draft animals nearly came to a halt. For fourteen years, the American Cream Horse Association remained inactive, except for the transfer of a single horse. Thankfully, a handful of dedicated individuals held onto their Creams, preserving a small genetic foundation that would later serve as the breed's lifeline. In 1982, the American Cream Draft Horse Association experienced a revival. Breeders collaborated with Dr. Gus Cothran from the University of Kentucky Equine Blood Typing Lab to determine the breed's genetic parameters. The research results brought hope to Cream Draft Horse enthusiasts, confirming that American Creams are a distinct population within the draft horse breeds. This discovery played a vital role in the breed's renaissance. Modern American Creams are medium-to-large horses, typically standing between 15 and 16.3 hands at the withers. Mares weigh an average of 1600-1800 lbs, while stallions range from 1800-2000 lbs. Their stunning appearance is characterized by a rich cream color, pink skin, amber eyes, and flowing white manes and tails. Some white markings add to their charm. The pink skin is crucial in achieving the desired cream hue. Creams with darker skin tones often produce offspring that are too light or nearly white when paired with other Creams. When born, colts have nearly white eyes that gradually darken to the breed's unique amber color as they mature. The size of the American Cream Draft Horse makes them particularly well-suited for harnessing, hitching, and driving. Traditionally, they have been an integral part of working teams. Their gentle disposition and willingness to work make them easily manageable, even for novice owners. These horses thrive in sustainable farming practices, as they are hardy and unaffected by cold weather when provided with appropriate shelter and protection. Despite their incredible qualities, the American Cream Draft Horse remains critically rare. However, their numbers are steadily increasing due to their striking appearance, captivating history, and their natural compatibility with sustainable farming methods. We invite you to explore and appreciate the beauty and heritage of the American Cream Draft Horse. Join us in celebrating this remarkable breed and witness their enduring legacy in the world of equine excellence. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian enthusiast or someone discovering the world of horses for the first time, there's something truly captivating about the American Cream Draft Horse. At Corson’s Creams, we are dedicated to the preservation and promotion of this extraordinary breed. Our mission is to ensure the survival and growth of these horses, allowing their unique qualities to shine and inspire future generations. Through careful breeding programs, education, and outreach, we strive to create a sustainable future for these magnificent creatures. Visiting our farm is an immersive experience where you can witness the grace and power of the American Cream Draft Horse up close. Interact with these gentle giants, learn about their history, and marvel at their stunning cream coats and amber eyes. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the remarkable journey of these horses, sharing stories and insights that will deepen your appreciation for their significance. Whether you're considering adding an American Cream Draft Horse to your farm, seeking a companion for your existing horses, or simply want to immerse yourself in the beauty of these creatures, our farm is the perfect destination. We offer a range of programs and services, including breeding consultations, training workshops, trail rides, wagon or sleigh rides, and even the opportunity to add one of these remarkable horses into your own family. Join us on this extraordinary adventure and become a part of the American Cream Draft Horse legacy. Together, let's celebrate their resilience, beauty, and contribution to our rich agricultural heritage. Discover the joy of connecting with these remarkable animals and embrace the warmth and friendship they bring to our lives. Contact us today to learn more about the American Cream Draft Horse, our farm, and how you can get involved. We can't wait to welcome you into our community of passionate individuals who share a deep love and admiration for these magnificent creatures. Together, let's preserve their legacy and ensure a bright future for the American Cream Draft Horse breed. Sincerely, The Corson’s