Mares with strong builds, long and narrow heads, bulky limbs and full of hair [...] were introduced there following the drying up of the marshes; then the administration of the stud farm came, ever loyal to its system, to stimulate the production of horses suitable for the cavalry.

The stud farm of Saint-Maixent-sur-Vie and the stallion depots of Fontenay and Saintes necessitated the presence of cavalry-horse-supplying facilities in Saint-Maixent, Saint-Jean-d'Angély, and Fontaney.

[5] Jean-Henri Magne noted in 1858 that "the ease with which these horses were transformed under the sapid and nutritional plants that were produced by the reclaimed pastures of Saintonge.

"[7] Around 1780, the administration of the Haras Nationaux looked to stimulate the production of cavalry horses by introducing thoroughbred and Norman stallions to produce the type of half-blood breed sought after by the army.

It was originally to be used for draining swamps, but was later crossed with Thoroughbred stallions to make it fit for service as a mount for light cavalry.