Is there an animal more majestic than the Clydesdale Horses? Such a rich history when it comes to these animals including the foundation of Anheuser-Busch beer. The Budweiser Clydesdales made their first-ever appearance on April 7, 1933. A gift from August A. Busch, Jr. and Adolphus Busch to their father in celebration of the repeal of Prohibition, the presentation of the original two six-horse hitches of champion Clydesdales moved father, sons and drivers to tears. The phrase “crying in your beer” was officially coined shortly thereafter.
When I found out that these majestic animals were in town visiting the Fairfield Anheuser-Busch plant, I knew I had to make the trek over myself to see them. They will be there through January 24th with various activities happening each day the brewery is open. (10am to 5pm Thursday-Tuesday, Closed on Wednesdays.)
Monday, January 12: Pictures with the Clydesdales: 12pm to 2pm
Tuesday, January 13: Pictures with the Clydesdales: 12pm to 2pm
Wednesday, January 14: Closed
Thursday, January 14: Pictures with the Clydesdales: 12pm to 2pm
Friday, January 15: Hitch Procedures from 1 to 3pm
Saturday, January 16: Hitch Procedures from 1 to 3pm
Sunday, January 17: Hitch Procedures from 1 to 3pm
Monday, January 18: Pictures with the Clydesdales: 12pm to 2pm
Tuesday, January 19: Pictures with the Clydesdales: 12pm to 2pm
Wednesday, January 20: Closed
Thursday, January 21: Pictures with the Clydesdales: 12pm to 2pm
Friday, January 22: Hitch Procedures from 1 to 3pm
Saturday, January 23: Hitch Procedures from 1 to 3pm
Sunday, January 24: Hitch Procedures from 1 to 3pm
And when I got there, I not only saw them, but saw the whole presentation of the “Hitch” and all the work that it entails:
And it was an incredible experience. Along with the horses, and the team working hard with the Clydesdales is Chip, the beloved Dalmation that has become the Budweiser’s mascot over the year’s. The Dalmation sits behind the driver while the hitch is running, and during the set up of the hitch you may just see Chip running around:
Check out the Wagon:
The wagon they pull is also pretty special. The beautiful red Studebaker dates back all the way to 1903! Just as much hard work goes into the wagon along with the Clydesdales.
The history of the Dalmation Dog:
The Dalmatian breed has long been associated with horses, and valued for its speed, endurance, and dependable nature. Dalmatians, also referred to “coach dogs” because they ran between the wheels of coaches or wagons, were known to be good companions to horses. ~Budweiser Blog
On March 30, 1950, in commemoration of the opening of the Newark Brewery, a Dalmatian was introduced as the Budweiser Clydesdales’ mascot.
Today, a Dalmatian travels with each of the Clydesdale hitches (East Coast, West Coach, St. Louis) perched atop the wagon, proudly seated next to the driver.
There are 3 Dalmation Dogs that travel around with the Budweiser Clydesdales Hitches.
Our lucky Dalmation for the West Coast Hitch is “Chip” and he made lots of smiles on the day I visited the tour.
The St. Louis Hitch dog’s name is Clyde
The East Coast Hitch dog’s name is Brewer.
I wanted to leave you with one last thing to get you inspired to go see the Clydesdales in person yourself. This little video I shot of them in action:
Have you seen these beautiful animals in person? Let me hear your stories below and share you love with these animals. Also, be sure to check out the Budweiser blog to learn more about these majestic animals, the hitch and the Dalmation Dogs.
While visiting be sure to stop in for a tour of the Anheuser-Busch plant, as long as you’re 21+ and older. Tours include samples of beer.
The Fanfield Experience: 5 Dollars
The Brewmaster Tour:
On the Fairfield Beermaster Tour you will visit the Brew House, Lager Cellar, Packaging Facility and Finishing Cellar, including a sample directly from a Finishing Tank!
Reservations are required. The Beermaster Tour costs $25 for visitors ages 21 and older and $10 for visitors ages 13-20. To commemorate your experience, a variety of gifts are provided to you as our guest.
or stop into the Beer Tasting Room:
Visitors to the Budweiser Tasting Room will be able to enjoy a new flight program – that will include the “Made in Fairfield” brews. This deluxe beer tasting experience is available for up to eight adults and includes a one-on-one session with a brewing expert to learn about beer styles, our high-quality ingredients, proper pouring techniques, and how to taste beer like a brewmaster.
This program is limited to guests who are 21 years of age or older, and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost is $10 per person, which includes a flight specific signature glass.
The Beer Tasting Experience is offered every hour throughout the day:
- Sept. through May:
Thu. – Mon.: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - June through Aug.:
Daily: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
