Wilkes (horse)

Wilkes was a prominent American Standardbred stallion, foaled in 1865. He was sired by George Wilkes (also a significant Standardbred sire) and out of the mare Katie Patchen by Hill's Black Hawk. Wilkes was a bay horse known for his speed, stamina, and influence on the development of the Standardbred breed.

While not a particularly successful racehorse himself, Wilkes became renowned as a sire of racehorses and broodmares. He consistently produced offspring with exceptional trotting and pacing abilities. His get were highly sought after, and his bloodlines became foundational in many important Standardbred families.

Wilkes stood at stud for many years and exerted a lasting impact on the breed. His contributions solidified the Standardbred as a distinct and valued breed within the equine world. He is considered one of the most important sires in Standardbred history, having passed on his desirable traits to generations of racehorses. His legacy continues to be felt through the pedigrees of modern Standardbreds.