Antique McClellan Model 1913 Mule Rider, Packers Military Cavalry Saddle For Sale -
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Antique McClellan Model 1913 Mule Rider, Packers Military Cavalry Saddle :
$425.00
In 1913 the government issued a mule riding saddle to address the larger numbers of these animals put to work as riding animals. Mules have been ridden as Army mounts far back in history...Most noted was General George Crook ( of Indian War fame) often pictured on his favorite mount, a mule.
The packers always rode mules, and this saddle was developed largely for them. Although at first glance, this looks like the 1904 McClellan tree, it actually varies somewhat. After all, horses and mules backs were different, and this saddle is slightly wider for that reason, and is cut away in a distinct curve behind the stirrup bar. The big brass horn is securely attached to the saddle, and the saddle is double rigged, allowing for both a front and a back cinch.
These saddles are rare.....almost impossible to find in this condition. It has a few scratches on the cantle as pictured above, and one of the girth billets has a tear in it about 12 inches down from the girth ring. I believe it is also missing 2 little pieces of hardware, but look closely, and judge for yourself. The leather all feels very healthy, with the exception of the billet straps which do show some wear and crazing. The saddle had sheepskin at one time, but some little critter removed it, and only the hide portion remains. That is in good condition.
Near the front of the saddle, on one side, is about a 2 inch area where the seam has come unstitched. There is no displacement of shrinkage of the leather there, and an easy fix. It is a very minor flaw on an otherwise lovely saddle!
The packers always rode mules, and this saddle was developed largely for them. Although at first glance, this looks like the 1904 McClellan tree, it actually varies somewhat. After all, horses and mules backs were different, and this saddle is slightly wider for that reason, and is cut away in a distinct curve behind the stirrup bar. The big brass horn is securely attached to the saddle, and the saddle is double rigged, allowing for both a front and a back cinch.
These saddles are rare.....almost impossible to find in this condition. It has a few scratches on the cantle as pictured above, and one of the girth billets has a tear in it about 12 inches down from the girth ring. I believe it is also missing 2 little pieces of hardware, but look closely, and judge for yourself. The leather all feels very healthy, with the exception of the billet straps which do show some wear and crazing. The saddle had sheepskin at one time, but some little critter removed it, and only the hide portion remains. That is in good condition.
Near the front of the saddle, on one side, is about a 2 inch area where the seam has come unstitched. There is no displacement of shrinkage of the leather there, and an easy fix. It is a very minor flaw on an otherwise lovely saddle!
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