Here is what we believe an original Model 1864 McClellan enlisted man’s saddle used by United States mounted troops during the last months of the Civil War. In October 1864, the U.S. Ordnance Department joined with private contractors incorporated new designs and improvements in the Pattern M1859 model and re-designated it the Pattern 1864.

In excellent condition overall, this late war cavalry saddle remains tight, very strong and retains all of its cavalry equipment, save for its surcingle and saddlebags. Saddle also bears a later 1868 arsenal modification of brass trim moulding added around the edges of the pommel and the cantle. The Pattern 1864 McClellan differs slightly from the Pattern 1859 saddle in having a slightly higher pommel and cantle. The 1864 pattern also has a pommel with a more forward angle or forward incline.

The 1864 McClellan retains its open-seat tree with the exposed rawhide cover still in excellent overall condition. Original stitching, usually found torn away from the rawhide, is still strong, smooth and unfrayed on most areas save for under the pommel and at the where it has separated. No U.S. inspector’s stampings visible. Saddle has all its brass escutcheons at the cantle and pommel mortises. Top center of the pommel also exhibits the slotted brass shield device indicative of the size of the saddle that displays “11½ INCH / SEAT” tightly riveted to the pommel. This pattern saddle bears the 1868 addition of brass trim moulding along the pommel and cantle edges. The brass was added to keep the rawhide edges from drying, curling, and breaking from the brutal effects of exposure to the western seasonal extremes on the plains. The rawhide panels would curl and form sharp, knifelike edges that would cut through clothing and flesh.

Screwed onto the McClellan saddle are its original set of large, black harness leather sweat skirts. Included with the rigging are the two black harness leather calf skirts, pommel and cantle leather quarter straps with unspaded D-rings over the skirts and a leather girth strap and all original cantle and pommel rings with all the saddle foot staples. In addition, each of the two outside quarter straps, fitted with large iron buckles, secures a large, bent white oak or hickory stirrup wrapped in a black leather stirrup hood or boot. Wooden stirrups feature a 2” deep tread with both stirrups exhibiting moderate edge wear. No cracks or chippings visible. The stirrup hoods wrap around the frames and are in very good condition and show use but not abuse. Made of strong black harness leather riveted to the frame.

There is no leather carbine thimble, no narrow black leather coat straps, nor the black leather crupper. Nor are there any visible markings or stampings on the exterior saddle leather equipments. All the leather accoutrements are in very good condition but some pieces do exhibit light surface cracking and crazing. Saddle has its original brass maker’s medallion on the left side of pommel tree. Partially identified to a contractor in Bethel, Ohio. This is a great original M1864 McClellan cavalry specimen of horse equipment that would enhance any military collection.

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