Ebony Masterpiece: 1962 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

Ebony Masterpiece, a black stallion foaled in 1957, became the 1962 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, solidifying his place as one of the most celebrated horses in the breed’s history. Known for his smooth gaits, striking presence, and exceptional pedigree, Ebony Masterpiece’s journey to the pinnacle of the Tennessee Walking Horse world is a testament to perseverance, talent, and expert training.

Pedigree and Early Life

Ebony Masterpiece was bred and foaled at Solitude Stock Farm in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. His pedigree combined some of the most influential bloodlines in the Tennessee Walking Horse breed:

Sire: Skipper’s Son of Midnight (a grandson of Midnight Sun).
Dam: Lady Lee (a daughter of Merry Boy).

Ebony Masterpiece was first trained by Bud Seaton, the manager and trainer at Solitude Stock Farm. Seaton began working with the young stallion in the late winter of 1957-1958. In the spring of 1958, Ebony Masterpiece was sold to Clay Simpson of Bowling Green, Kentucky, but remained under Seaton’s care for training and showing.

Early Show Career and Challenges

Ebony Masterpiece showed early promise in the show ring, achieving success as a two-year-old at the 1957 Celebration:

Third Place: Two-Year-Old Stallions and Geldings Class.
First Place: Two-Year-Old Championship Stake.

However, following this success, Ebony Masterpiece faced physical challenges, including a quarter-crack and a bowed tendon, which required him to be turned out to pasture for recovery. He remained out of training until late in his fourth year, when he was saddled again and began his journey back to competition.

Return to Competition

In 1960, Bud Seaton accepted a position as manager and trainer at Okley Hays Stables in Herrin, Illinois, and Ebony Masterpiece moved with him. Seaton began showing the stallion in local circuits across Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee in 1961. During this time, Ebony Masterpiece’s legs had strengthened, and he no longer suffered from hoof trouble. His performances in these shows demonstrated that he was once again a serious contender for top honors.

One of his standout performances occurred in July 1961 at Murfreesboro, Tennessee, where Ebony Masterpiece delivered what Seaton described as “one of the best shows ever.” It was at this event that Billy Hale became interested in the stallion. Acting as an agent for the Hales, Sam Paschal purchased Ebony Masterpiece and brought him to Paschal Stables in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

1962 Celebration: World Grand Champion

Under the expert guidance of trainer Sam Paschal, Ebony Masterpiece was carefully prepared for the 1962 Celebration. Paschal, who had already trained a previous World Grand Champion, brought out the best in Ebony Masterpiece, showcasing his natural talent and impeccable training.

Key Achievements

Fourth Grandson of Midnight Sun to Win the World Grand Championship:
Ebony Masterpiece continued the legacy of Midnight Sun, becoming the fourth of his grandsons to claim the Celebration’s highest honor.
Second World Grand Champion Trained by Sam Paschal:
Paschal’s skill as a trainer was once again proven, as he guided Ebony Masterpiece to victory.
One of the Most Popular Champions:
Both Ebony Masterpiece and Sam Paschal enjoyed a tremendous following among spectators, and their win was widely celebrated by lovers of Tennessee Walking Horses.

Retirement and Legacy

Following his 1962 World Grand Championship win, Ebony Masterpiece was retired from the show ring and began a prolific career as a sire. His impact on the Tennessee Walking Horse breed is unparalleled, as he holds the record for the highest number of foals sired by any Tennessee Walking Horse stallion, with 3,555 foals registered on the TWHBEA IPEDS.

Notable Offspring

Ebony Masterpiece’s offspring include numerous champions, with many continuing to carry his legacy to this day. Some of the most illustrious names include:

Ebony’s Senator (1969 World Grand Champion).
Masquerading (1998 World Grand Champion).
RPM (1999 World Grand Champion).
The Whole Nine Yards (2003 World Grand Champion).
The Black Night Shade (2004 World Grand Champion).
Main Power (2005 World Grand Champion).
Master of Jazz (2007 World Grand Champion).

Impact on the Tennessee Walking Horse Breed

Ebony Masterpiece’s influence extends far beyond his own accomplishments in the show ring. As a sire, he shaped the breed for generations, producing champions that upheld the Tennessee Walking Horse’s reputation for smooth gaits, elegance, and versatility. His name is found in the pedigrees of countless modern champions, ensuring that his legacy remains alive and well.

Ebony Masterpiece is remembered not only as a World Grand Champion but also as a cornerstone of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed, whose contributions continue to be celebrated by enthusiasts and breeders worldwide.