This saddle is still very sturdy and, after some minor repair/upkeep, could still be used today. Versus other similar saddles that I’ve compared it to on here (completed auctions), this one was obviously used and is still in pretty good shape. I’ve been sure not to clean it whatsoever and, as you can see in the pics, the brass fittings all have a good amount of ozidation on them. The leather is dark brown, from use and weathering. It has your usual scratches (no tears), but it would clean up nicely. It has stamps on it that show it was made by Hotze & Sons (also says JDS) in 1918. It is a McClellan design. Both stirrups match and are original. They both have a “US” branded stamp at the bottom. The woodwork for the stirrup’s footrests are stamped by Spalding, also 1918 originals. The underside of the saddle still has the sheep fur on it, which I did not see on the comparable saddles. The strap that goes on the underbelly of the horse is intact and still has the original horse hair, which is still in great condition and very sturdy. The only defects that I can see is that some of the strapping is broken, and one of the brass fittings is broken (my finger is pointing to it in the pictures). There is a couple of additional straps that are bundled, and aren’t being used, that could possibly replace the broken straps. I’m sorry that I don’t know more about saddles to be sure, or know the proper language, but if you have additional questions, or need more pics, please send me a message. Other than that, the saddle appears to be intact. There is also, what appears to be, a leg protector on one side but not the other. I have a picture of it shown. I have not seen it on the other saddles. It’s also possible, through my online research, that this could be an officer’s saddle. The name “COE” is etched into the woodwork on the bottom of one stirrup. Military records show a Lt. Of Dallas, TX enlisted in 1917 and served with the 5th Texas Calvary up until the end of the war, after training in Camp Stanley. He served under General McGill. You are encouraged to do your own research, but my belief is that this saddle saw battle in WWI, and belonged to an officer. Pretty darn cool if so, but I obviously can’t guarantee that right now. I really love this piece, the look, the history, etc. I just don’t have room for it. But when I saw it, being a vet myself, I knew I had to find it a proper home. This item will not be eligible for return. I will make sure to take care in packaging it. The item “WWI Hotze & Sons Military Issue (McClellan) Calvary Saddle Stamped 1918 Signed” is in sale since Wednesday, June 22, 2016. This item is in the category “Collectibles\Militaria\WW I (1914-18)\Original Period Items\United States\Personal, Field Gear”. The seller is “redbee22″ and is located in Grove City, Ohio. This item can be shipped to United States.
- Country/Region of Manufacture: United States