About Us
Marion & Royce
The 1867 is built on a true partnership.
Marion leads the training, development, and evaluation of each horse, while Royce manages the operation of the farm—overseeing the facility, supporting sourcing efforts, and ensuring the program runs with consistency and care.
Together, they have built The 1867 through discipline, experience, and a shared commitment to doing things the right way.
Marion Dresel-Nelson
Marion Dresel-Nelson is a German-born dressage rider, trainer, and former breeder whose career has been defined by a commitment to developing horses correctly—from the ground up.
A USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist, Marion has spent decades producing her own horses, bringing them from young prospects to capable, rideable partners. Her program reflects a disciplined, methodical approach rooted in correctness, rideability, and long-term development—never shortcuts.
In addition to her work under saddle, Marion is a three-time USDF Sporthorse Breeder of the Year. Her breeding program, established in 1995, became known for producing well-rounded warmbloods suited for both competitive riders and amateurs alike.
What sets Marion apart is not just her results—but her process. Every horse is developed through thoughtful, hands-on training with a consistent focus on temperament, balance, and foundation.
From Germany to the United States
Originally from Germany, Marion’s foundation in horsemanship was shaped by a system grounded in discipline, precision, and respect for the horse’s development.
That influence remains central to her work in the United States, where she built a reputation for producing horses that are not only talented—but genuinely enjoyable to ride.
A New Chapter — Idaho to Ohio
After years of operating a successful breeding and training program in Idaho, Marion and her husband Royce began traveling across the country in search of young horses with exceptional potential.
What began as sourcing trips quickly evolved into something more intentional.
While working in Ohio, Marion recognized the quality within certain locally bred horses—those with natural movement, sound minds, and inherent rideability. Many of these horses, often overlooked, aligned seamlessly with her training philosophy.
After years of traveling between Idaho and Ohio, Marion and Royce made the decision in 2023 to relocate to Ravenna, Ohio—establishing The 1867.
The 1867 Today
Today, The 1867 is focused on sourcing, developing, and offering young horses with the potential to succeed in dressage.
Each horse is selected for conformation, movement, temperament, and rideability—then developed through a program grounded in correct training and long-term thinking.
The goal is simple:
To produce horses that are not only capable—but reliable, rideable, and enjoyable for the riders who take them forward.
