The name Appaloosa originated from the geographical location (Pullman, Washington area) where the horse resided, called Palouse.
The color was so unusual that folks would remark, "look, there goes a Palouse horse,"
meaning that there goes a horse from Palouse.
The name then evolved into "A Palouse" horse and then finally to Appaloosa.
He carried the bravest warriors into battle and bore women and children across the rugged Plains. He dragged travois behind him, raced for the sport of his keepers, and galloped madly as his riders chased down vast herds of buffalo. He was the quintessential Indian horse, a creature born with war paint already in his coat. He was treasured above all other possessions, and valued not only as a working animal, but also as a friend. He was—he is—the Appaloosa horse.
