The beautiful Morgan Horse (Equus cabullus morganensis) was adopted as the state horse of Vermont in 1961.

Morgans are descendants of "Figure," a sturdy little bay stallion owned by schoolteacher and singing master Justin Morgan of West Springfield, Massachusetts. Born in 1789, and later known by his master's name - Justin Morgan - this horse outran and outworked any horse that was brought against him. In 1821 the gallant little horse died at the age of 32.

Horses are official state symbols in 12 states:

Vermont and Massachusetts (morgan horse); Alabama (racking horse); Idaho (Apaloosa horse); Kentucky and Maryland (thoroughbred horse); Tennessee (Tennessee walking horse); North Dakota (Nokota horse); Missouri (fox trotting horse), North Carolina (colonial Spanish mustang), Florida (Florida cracker horse), and New Jersey ("the horse").

Source:

Vermont Symbols: Vermont Secretary of State

Links:

Best Horse Photos.com
All State Animals - Mammals