Sjoerd Walda was born on December 30, 1827 at Grennsted, on the Walden estate in Vöhren. As the eldest son, he was destined to inherit the family estate.

Grennsted farm had a long-standing reputation for breeding top-quality horses, and Sjoerd was fortunate enough to grow up among them. He developed a deep love and fascination for these majestic animals from a very young age, spending countless hours riding, studying, and even drawing them. Eventually, when he turned sixteen, Sjoerd decided to travel to France to take a class and short apprenticeship that specialized in equine care and breeding for race and competition horses.

In 1842, Sjoerd decided to expand his knowledge by taking a class in horse riding and racing, which was being taught by a local person named Johanna Voorman. As they both shared a common interest and passion, they soon fell in love with each other.

Sjoerd Walda and Johanna Voorman tied the knot on May 24, 1845, at the Walden estate. Following their wedding, Johanna moved in with Sjoerd, bringing three of her horses with her. The couple then decided to focus on breeding and training high-quality horses and their business began to flourish.

In 1850, Sjoerd Walda assumed full control over the family business and estate. He wasted no time in transforming and expanding the business by constructing new stables, acquiring high-ranking horses, and offering a service for horse owners to stable their animals on the farm for a monthly fee. This decision turned out to be highly successful, and the business prospered like never before.

Claire Walda was born on August 11, 1853 on Grennsted farm, as the daughter of Johanna and Sjoerd Walda. Upon Claire's birth, they gifted her a young horse named Polly.