McClellan Saddle

“In 1859, the U.S. War Department adopted the McClellan Saddle. They remained the standard issue throughout the history of the horse cavalry. The saddle was simple and less expensive than most. It was light enough not to weigh down the horse, yet it was sturdy and gave good support to the rider and his gear.”

See the complete entry at “McClellan Saddle,” at Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of American History, accessed April 11, 2021.

Saddlers made, repaired, and restored saddles, bridles, harnesses and other leather goods. Some had experience with leatherwork before joining the military; others became cobblers after their service.