War Horse. Copenhagen, with Arthur Wellesley (Duke of Wellington) on his back, spearheaded the attack against Napoleon at Waterloo which banished him to St. Helena for the remainder of his life. From morning until dark, this horse zig-zagged the battlefield while dodging shells and bullets from the French with the battle directed from his back. Upon Wellesley's return to England, he was accorded a hero's welcome. An estate, Stratfield Saye, was given to him by the British government for his victory. The Duke was never overly fond nor sentimental toward the horse but often commented on his dexterity and stamina. Copenhagen, upon retirement as an army horse, was entrusted to a London area farm for board and keep while treated as a national treasure. The animal lived until age twenty seven. Blind, unable to hear, Copenhagen died in his stall. The Duke was away but made a special trip to his estate to oversee preparations for Copenhagen's burial. He selected a site at Stratfield Saye and the horse was buried with full military honors.
War Horse. Copenhagen, with Arthur Wellesley (Duke of Wellington) on his back, spearheaded the attack against Napoleon at Waterloo which banished him to St. Helena for the remainder of his life. From morning until dark, this horse zig-zagged the battlefield while dodging shells and bullets from the French with the battle directed from his back. Upon Wellesley's return to England, he was accorded a hero's welcome. An estate, Stratfield Saye, was given to him by the British government for his victory. The Duke was never overly fond nor sentimental toward the horse but often commented on his dexterity and stamina. Copenhagen, upon retirement as an army horse, was entrusted to a London area farm for board and keep while treated as a national treasure. The animal lived until age twenty seven. Blind, unable to hear, Copenhagen died in his stall. The Duke was away but made a special trip to his estate to oversee preparations for Copenhagen's burial. He selected a site at Stratfield Saye and the horse was buried with full military honors.
Bio by: Donald Greyfield
Inscription
Here Lies
COPENHAGEN
The Charger ridden by the Duke of Wellington
The Entire Day at the Battle of Waterloo
Born 1808 Died 1836
Advertisement
See more Copenhagen memorials in:
Explore more
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
