Rapunzel
- Name: Rapunzel
- Breed: Miniature Horse
- Registered: No
- Foaled: Unknown
- Color: Palomino Tobiano
- Sire: Unknown
- Dam: Unknown
- Lineage: Unknown
Rapunzel is one of the beloved miniature mares who calls Homestead Horsemanship home. She came to us during the summer of 2024, and her journey to our farm is one we’ll never forget.
We had gone to a local auction without a specific goal in mind—just to look. As we wandered the pens, we noticed a mini stallion who immediately caught our eye. Even though we hadn’t planned on bringing home a stallion, we were drawn to him. His name would eventually become Eugene. As we made our way to watch him go through the sale ring, we passed a pen full of mini horses—many of them thin, neglected, and in need of care. And right there in the middle stood a small, timid mare.
She was clearly being picked on by the rest of the group. Underweight and a little wary, she somehow radiated gentleness and sweetness. We couldn’t look away. While we had planned to bid on the stallion, we agreed at that moment: if we could bring her home too, we would.
We arrived at the auction just in time to see Eugene step into the ring—and we were fortunate enough to place the winning bid. The excitement of bringing him home was palpable, but even as we celebrated, we couldn’t help but think of a little mare we had our eye on. She had caught our attention earlier in the day, and we had a feeling she’d be a perfect addition to the herd.
As the hours passed and the auction continued, our thoughts stayed with her. Finally, she entered the ring, and after some spirited bidding, we placed the winning bid for her as well. What started as a simple plan to expand our herd turned into an unexpectedly perfect day, with both Eugene and the mare joining our family and forever changing the dynamics of our homestead.
On the drive home, we tossed around name ideas. Her long, flowing mane reminded us of Rapunzel, the fairytale princess. At first, we considered calling her “Blondie,” one of Rapunzel’s nicknames, but it didn’t quite fit. As soon as we said “Rapunzel,” we knew—it was perfect.
Eugene and Rapunzel settled in beautifully, and Rapunzel quickly formed a special bond with Emeri. She became her little shadow, always nearby, always affectionate. We all absolutely adored her.
