Hello,
Willkommen!

Hi, I’m Lynn Gervais — orchestra teacher, cellist, runner, mother of two wonderful boys, and now, proud steward of a rare and enchanting breed: the Black Forest Draft horse.

My love for horses began in middle school, but like many passions, it had to take a backseat while I pursued my career in music and education. I studied abroad in Germany — my mother’s homeland — and during a four-day hike through the mystical Black Forest, I stumbled upon a sight I would never forget: dark chestnut horses with flowing flaxen manes, grazing peacefully in the village of Sankt Märgen. It was like walking into a storybook.

At the time, I didn’t know what breed they were. But I promised myself that one day, I would find out.

Years later, in 2017, that dream began to take shape. With land of our own and space to grow, I finally looked up those fairy-tale horses. What I had seen all those years ago were Black Forest Drafts — a rare and endangered breed with deep roots in Germany. I was captivated all over again.

The journey since then has been humbling and heartwarming. I found my first Black Forest gelding, Mateo, through a wonderful breeder in Idaho. He now lives in the Willamette Valley, continuing to spread joy. Fate led me to two beautiful mares from the small North American herd and, in late 2022, I was able to import a weanling colt directly from Germany.

This dream would not be possible without the incredible guidance and generosity of others who share a love for this special breed — especially Ursula Seidel, the original importer of Black Forest Drafts to North America and Elizabeth Keck of Once Upon a Dream Acres. Their knowledge, encouragement, and passion have been invaluable.

When I’m not teaching orchestra or playing cello in our local symphony, I’m out in the pasture, doing chores with my boys, or going for a run to clear my mind. This life — grounded in music, family, and these remarkable horses — is one I cherish deeply.

Thank you for visiting, and for taking an interest in the Black Forest Draft horse. I look forward to sharing this journey with you.