Meet Our Shire Draft Horses at SilverShire Farm

Meet the gentle giants behind our tours—these horses are the team that pulls our horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides through the countryside. Our farm is located in Adams County, just minutes from Gettysburg, PA, making it an easy add-on to your Gettysburg trip. We’re proud to feature Shire draft horses, known for their strength, calm temperament, and friendly personalities you’ll get to know during your visit.

  • Marque (Markie), Shire draft horse at SilverShire Farm near Gettysburg PA

    Marque (Markie)

    Hi, I’m Markie a 14 y/o full blood Shire mare. I am the oldest of the Shires. I’ve been part of Silvershire Farm since I was 3 months old. I’m the one that always gets caught after Mac starts something.

  • McKenzie (Mac), Shire mare pulling carriage ride in Adams County

    McKenzie (Mac)

    Hi, I’m Mac a 12 y/o full blood Shire mare. I originally came from Wisconsin. I am the instigator of the herd. I start stuff and Markie is the one that usually gets caught.

  • Mae Mae, 11-year-old Shire draft horse mare at SilverShire Farm near Gettysburg, PA in Adams County

    Mae Mae

    Hi, I’m Mae a 11 y/o full blood Shire mare. I came with Mac from Wisconsin. I’m the baby of the herd. I am also the biggest about 20+ hand with 2 more years to grow. I am the lover of the herd.

  • Maya, half Shire and half Hanoverian mare at SilverShire Farm near Gettysburg, PA in Adams County

    Maya

    Hi, I’m Maya a 21 y/o half Shire and half Hanoverian mare. I was my owners Eventing horse until I got hurt. Now I just do easy trail rides. I’m the Zulu horse because I don’t care if I’m last I still get fed the same.

  • Merlin, rescue horse at SilverShire Farm

    Merlin

    Hi, I’m Merlin a rescue horse. I don’t know how old I am somewhere between 25 and 30 y/o. I am a Kentucky Walking Horse (Gelding). I am the boss but most of the time nobody listens to me.

  • Magic (Mudpie), Missouri Fox Trotter pony gelding at SilverShire Farm near Gettysburg, PA in Adams County

    Magic (Mudpie)

    Hi, I’m Magic and I don’t know how old I am because I am a rescue. Somewhere between 25 and 30. I am a Missouri Fox Trotter Pony (Gelding). My owners groom me all the time but I like to roll in the mud.

About Shire Draft Horses

Shire horses are the largest draft horse breed in the world, originally developed in England to carry knights in armor. Then for farm work and hauling heavy loads. Today, they’re admired for their impressive size, gentle nature, and steady work ethic—traits that make them a perfect match for horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides.

At SilverShire Farm, our Shire draft horses are chosen and trained for calm, reliable driving. Their strength allows them to pull the carriage smoothly at a relaxed pace, and their even-tempered personalities help create a comfortable experience for families, kids, and first-time riders. You’ll often notice how patient and unbothered they are as they work—exactly what you want in a carriage team.

When you meet our Shires, expect big hearts to match their big frames. You’ll have the chance to learn about their personalities, how they’re cared for, and what it takes to drive a working team. Many guests love the up-close moments—watching them harnessed, seeing their feathered legs, and taking photos and offering them treats as part of the farm experience.