Black Angel: The 1943 World Grand Champion
The 1943 Celebration was a historic and memorable event, marked by weather challenges and an extraordinary performance by Black Angel, a stunning black mare with only a star marking. Despite rain forcing the show to be divided and extended into a Sunday afternoon finale, Black Angel rose to the occasion and claimed the title of World Grand Champion, with Winston Wiser in the saddle.
Pedigree and Breeding
Black Angel was bred by Mrs. Fannie Bramblett of Wartrace, Tennessee. She was sired by Merry Boy, one of the most influential sires in Tennessee Walking Horse history. Merry Boy was a son of Roan Allen F-38, who in turn was sired by the foundation stallion Allan F-1. Merry Boy’s dam, the legendary Merry Legs F-4, was also by Allan F-1, giving Black Angel a pedigree rich with foundational bloodlines.
Her dam, Nell Bramblett, added further depth to her lineage. Nell Bramblett was sired by Dixie Boy F-22, a son of Roes Chief F-35, by Bourbon Prince, and her maternal line included Gordner Stonewall, a descendant of Stonewall Jackson F-53.
The 1943 Celebration Victory
At the time of her victory, Black Angel was owned by Mr. and Mrs. R. F. Ellis of Orrville, Alabama. Her performance on that rainy Sunday afternoon was nothing short of brilliant, leaving an indelible impression on all who witnessed it. Winston Wiser guided her to victory, marking his first of many Grand Championships at the Celebration. Black Angel’s win was particularly notable as she was the first Celebration winner not sired by Wilson’s Allen, breaking a streak that had lasted since the competition’s inception in 1939.
Record-Breaking Sale
Following her Grand Championship win, Black Angel was sold on October 12, 1943, to Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Yancey of Blissful Farms in Marianna, Arkansas, for what was then the highest price ever paid for a Tennessee Walking Horse. Under the training of S. W. Beech, Jr., Black Angel continued her winning streak, competing extensively across the South and consistently dominating in the show ring.
Continued Success and Legacy
In 1945, Black Angel was sold to Mr. and Mrs. David Moreton of Jo Mo Stables in Brookhaven, Mississippi, but remained under the guidance of S. W. Beech, Jr. She continued her winning ways, solidifying her reputation as one of the greatest show mares of her time.
In 1946, Black Angel triumphed at the Chicago Horse Show on November 10, further adding to her illustrious career. She also retired the Mona Lorenz Memorial Challenge Trophy at the Jackson, Mississippi, Horse Show by winning the Championship Stake three years in a row.
A Trailblazer in the Walking Horse World
Black Angel was the first World Grand Champion of Merry Boy breeding to win the Celebration, and she was also the first mare to win the World Grand Championship and later produce a colt sired by another World Grand Champion. Her achievements set a precedent for future champions and underscored the versatility and excellence of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed.
Retirement and Broodmare Contributions
After her competitive career, Black Angel transitioned into her role as a broodmare, where she continued to make history. Her influence on the breed extended beyond her time in the show ring, as she contributed to the next generation of champions.
A Legend Remembered
Black Angel is remembered as one of the greatest Tennessee Walking Horses of all time. Her elegance, talent, and groundbreaking achievements paved the way for mares to be recognized as top contenders in the Walking Horse world. Her legacy lives on in the breed’s history, inspiring horse enthusiasts and breeders for generations to come.
