This is a saddle that could have been used by Artillery or wagon drivers during the Civil War. I found examples of this type saddle in Howard Crouch's book, "Horse Equipment of the Civil War Era" and Ken Knopp's book, "Confederate Saddles & Horse Equipment". Both authors provide photo examples of this type saddle being used by Teamsters in the wagon trains as well as saddles for the Artillery drivers. Teamsters were normally mounted on the "near wheel" horse, or left side horse closest to the front wheel of the wagon. Horse drawn Artillery had riders on each left side horse in the team, also referred to as the "near" side. The teams were made up of 6 horses optimal, 4 horses minimal. This saddle is in very good condition. It has a 16" hardwood, cut back wagon style tree. The 12" seat is covered in quality leather, and has a border of small and large brass tacks. The underside of the seat has a leather outer cover and an inner pad made of blue and white striped ticking material. The pad is stuffed with horse hair. The skirts are made of 1/4" thick heavy leather, and measure 26" long and 13 3/4' wide. The stirrup leathers measure 1 3/16" wide. The left one leather has been repaired with a couple of copper rivets. The bent wood stirrups measure 3" across the tread. The woven linen girth strap is 3 3/4" wide and is strong! I believe that this is a prewar saddle, and like most other things Confederate, pressed into service during the Civil War. If you do collect Confederate Artillery items, this beauty could very well be the center piece of your collection!

Item # AA1181