Unknown Military Saddle History

lyndagriffiths

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14 October 2009
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I have an old military saddle either for horse or Mule I guess. It has lived in my shed for about 16 years and a friends shed for the previous five years. There are photos in my album. Can anyone shed any light on it. I believe it was made 1930/1940 era and would love to hear if anyone knows of any saddle collectors that may be able to give me some more information.
 
Have you got the photos on your computer? if so, start a photobucket account - upload to that, once done, copy and paste the botton code into your post here and et voila :D
 
Nope, cant seem to get them into this forum BUT I think if you look at my profile they are there in Public albums. Phew, large glass of wine & rest in a dark room!!!
 
No idea as to history, etc, but interesting to see how far the extended pannels are behind the saddle. For long days in the saddle it is more comfortable to sit at the back of the seat, but the rider is in fact sitting in the middle.

I discovered this on a riding holiday in france, where the saddles were copies of a British army saddle where they take out lots of inexperienced people on trails. It is not a good idea to try and keep to the "dressage" sort of seat, but just to relax and let the saddle take the strain. The
 
If you google Creaton Saddles, choose the first option that comes up - email Nick with your query and picture, he should be able to help you identify and age it.
 
Would have been quite comfy for the horse in its day . Some kind of expedition saddle I presume , the extended panel would have supported a rear saddle bag which is a good idea as people nowadays sometimes put rear saddle bags straight onto the loins.
Looks horse not mule shaped . Doesn't look to me like it had much use. Is it marked with the Arrow anywhere ? Fascinating.
 
Thanks everyone for your input. I will contact the suggested people. I have to say I did some years ago put it on my Danish warmblood and whilst you certainly wouldnt jump in it he went very sweetly and talk about comfortable - really excellent! will post when I know more about it. thanks again
 
I have a copy of the Manual of Horsemastership, Equitation and Animal Transport, issued in 1937 by The War Office! Don't ask! ;) I was given it many, many years ago and I've treasured it ever since!

My point is, you have what's known as a Universal Military Saddle. Universal because it can be used for pole draught, as well as for riding. I've also found this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saddle#Military_saddles

Hope this helps! :)
 
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