Dagmar, The Roan Pony

Dagmar is a bay roan mustang pony we adopted from the Hutchinson Kansas Correctional Facility Mustang Center, a prison program that pairs inmates with horse trainers and mustangs. Each year, the trained mustangs are auctioned to the public. North Star Equestrian Center purchased Dagmar on October 19, 2024.

As soon as we saw him, his willingness and intelligence were undeniable. Then called Roan Pony, his simple and peaceful nature made him the go-to for beginners. An old soul, he is perfect for anyone needing to cultivate confidence. He loves grooming time, adores being scratched and cherishes a walk to go grazing.

The Roan Pony was born in 2017 and rounded up as a 5-year-old in Pancake, Nevada. The band of mustangs in this area come from the Army Remount Service. During 1900-1940, the US Army would release thoroughbred, Morgan, and draft stallions to develop strong calvary for pulling wagons or heavy artillery. The mustangs in this area are extremely hardy.

After settling in at NSEC, the name Roan Pony seemed generic for him. As we bonded, his personality started to call out. He was the gentle babysitter for the yearling filly and proved himself to be an upstanding role-model. He is a non-confrontational, peaceful, easy-going fella. After taking nominations and having an informal election, Dagmar was selected.

Dagmar is the name of a small, peaceful remote town in Montana. Dr. Nelson grew up in this area and the simple nature of this small town was a perfect match for this simple, peaceful pony. We did keep his original name. However, now it is more of a title. We think this seems more dignified: Dagmar, The Roan Pony.