This is a US Model 1904 McClellan saddle that has been modified by the US government to become a Model 1928 McClellan saddle. The modification was finalized in 1928,hence the model number, but modification kits were not shipped out from the arsenals until the beginning of 1931. Unit saddlers and cavalrymen performed the modifications by removing the quarter straps and adding the shirts. This saddle is in original condition and shows no repairs at all. The open seat saddle tree is in excellent condition, having no damage at all. The russet leather covering the seat is in very good condition. There are no tears, holes or rips in the leather. Both trees are covered in the same russet leather, and while they do show some wear from use, they have no damage. All the stitching is tight, strong and unfrayed. The three brass escutcheon plates on the cantle and one on the pommel are securely attached to the mortises. The saddle shield is also securely attached to the pommel, and reads "11 INCH SEAT". The pommel and cantle quarter straps have been cut off, the edge of the cantle straps having been sewn onto the tree. The pommel quarter straps were also cut, but still remain on the staples. I'm not sure how they managed to stay with the saddle, because they aren't sewn on, just looped around the staples. The pommel staples and rings are missing, the cantle staples are present and the saddle bag hook is broken. There are no stirrups or girth strap with this saddle. The Army had already began to down size their Cavalry force after WWI, as the thought was toward the more modern mechanized units. At the beginning of WWII there were three regular Army, four National Guard and six Reserve Cavalry Divisions. The way of the horse was short lived, and this is one of the last saddles that would have been used.

Item # AA2394

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