Christmas for cowboys

One of the great things about Nauvoo is that you are surrounded with history. A great deal of energy has been spent to recreate a by-gone day. It has always been a highlight to see the horses and wagons that are here. In this very cold winter, it has been an added thrill to see the horses pulling sleds. There are a number of missionaries that are charged with caring for the animals. In particular, oxen and horses. The horses are majestic. Percheron and Belgian are the breeds. Both are large draft horses weighing in around a ton each. They tend to dwarf most of the cowboys. They always appear to me to be very gentle. It is a physical job outfitting and operating the wagons and teams.