The Versailles of horses, according to the expression of the writer Jean de la Varende (1887-1959), extends in the heart of the land of Merlerault. The choice of François Gédéon de Garsault, Grand Esquire to the King, fell in 1714 on the Buisson d'Exmes, near Argentan. It was quickly extended to the seigneury of Le Pin belonging to the State Councilor Louis Béchameil de Nointel. He agreed to exchange his estate for properties located in Noyelles-sur-Mer, Hermont, and Coutteville in Picardy. A decree of the Council of State of April 2, 1715, then ordered the transfer of the royal horses of Saint-Léger-en-Yvelines to the Haras National du Pin. The site has retained its title of parent stud farm because it is the only one to have been created by the will of the King, even though it was not the first royal horse depot.