New horse arrives at Leonis Adobe

The Leonis Adobe Museum has announced the arrival of a spunky, beautiful Percheron horse at the historic rancho in Old Town Calabasas.The 2-year-old black gelding, Merlin, is from an equestrian animal rescue organization.

The Percheron breed is large yet poised and dates to the days of armored knights, who often rode the sturdy draft horses.

Thousands of Percherons were imported to America in the last half of the 19th century. On California ranchos, Percherons were used for transportation and fieldwork. 

Beginning in July, the Leonis Adobe Museum's summer program will provide an opportunity for children to help feed Merlin, along with many of the other ranch animals.

"Merlin has a lot of personality," said Leonis Adobe General Manager Angela Schwanz.”He is sweet-tempered and playful."

In honor of the new arrival, the Leonis Adobe Museum is inviting children ages 6 to 10 to write a storyabout Merlinwith the title of "Merlin the Magnificent." Participants may learn more about Merlin from museum docents.

Story length should be between 150 and a maximum of 200 words. Entries may be submitted up to Aug. 10. 

Entries will be judged by the Calabasas Library staff in conjunction with the library's "Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales" summer reading program and will be published in upcoming museum newsletters. Winners will also receive a gift certificate to the museum store.

Leonis Adobe Museum is an authentic Monterey-style ranch with ranch animals that help bring to life western living of the 19th century. It was the home of the legendary Miguel Leonis and his Chumash wife, Espiritu.

The Leonis Adobe Museum is at 23537 Calabasas Road. Hours to visit Merlin are Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information on the summer program, call (818) 2226511 or go online to www. leonisadobemuseum.org.