An Illustrated History of Trigger - The Lives and Legend of Roy Rogers' Palomino

by Leo Pando

McFarland & Company (series)

Among certain fans, Roy Rogers' golden Palomino Trigger was more popular than the "King of the Cowboys" himself. Some are still infatuated by the horse decades after his death in 1965--and no wonder. Trigger is the most famous movie horse of all time. But in truth, "Trigger" was a composite of the original horse, a number of look-alikes and one extraordinary double (rarely acknowledged by Rogers) named Little Trigger.

This book is a detailed look at the animals and men who created and nurtured the legend of "the smartest horse in the movies." It covers the life story of the original horse and the look-alikes, as well as the story of "Trigger," the legend. A filmography lists all films in which Trigger appeared, including some without Roy Rogers. Television and personal appearances are also discussed. Covered in their own chapters are horse hero comic books and Trigger collectibles. Also included are a biography of Trigger's trainer Glenn Randall and a chapter on Roy Rogers as horseman. Generous illustrations include many rare (some previously unpublished) photographs gathered from Trigger collectors nationwide, and even copies of Trigger's registration form and bill of sale.