Our history
From village square to world stage
The Museum of the Belgian Draft Horse is located at a symbolic site. It was here, on the village square of Vollezele, that the greatest champions were once judged. In the 19th century, our draft horse was a key engine of the global economy—a living machine that conquered the world from our stables.
Today, the role of the horse has changed, but the pride remains. Since 2018, the draft horse culture has been recognized as Vlaams Immaterieel Cultureel Erfgoed. You will find an honorary plaque at the base of the statue of Brillant. This award, in the form of a stable plaque, is presented to an association that has made a meritorious contribution to preserving the culture of the Belgian Draft Horse.
Vollezele is a sub-municipality of Galmaarden, which in turn is a sub-municipality of Pajottegem.
Our vision
Heritage with a future
We believe that history only truly gains meaning when shared. Our mission is threefold:
Preserving: Safeguarding unique documents, studbooks, and traditional tools.
Experiencing: Letting visitors feel what it was like to work with these giants through our interactive exhibition and walks.
Connecting: Bridging the gap between the breeders of the past, today’s horse enthusiasts, and future generations.
Non-profit organization
Driven by volunteers
Behind the scenes at the museum, there is a dedicated team of volunteers. We are a non-profit organization driven by local people who have a passion for the draft horse.
Whether it involves our expert guides, the reception staff, or the collection managers, we all share the same passion for these "gentle giants." Together, we ensure that the doors in Vollezele remain open to everyone.
Beyond borders
An international hub
Although deeply rooted in the clay of the Pajottenland, the museum looks beyond borders. We maintain close ties with breeding farms and heritage organizations both at home and abroad. From the United States to Russia and Vollezele, the story of the Belgian Draft Horse is a global one—and our museum is its cradle.
Board & partners
Chair: Werner Godfroid
Honorary Chair: Hilde van Dixhoorn
Board Members: Greta Denie, Marc Stalpaert, Dirk Remaut, Toon Vancouter, Sam Stylemans, Ludo Persoons
Partners: Municipality of Pajottegem, Tourism Flemish Brabant, Royal Society of the Belgian Draft Horse.
