Dakota Datebook: Sept. 16, 2019

The McClellan Saddle

Sept. 17, 2019 — The saddle issued to the 7th Cavalry – the one to which Custer belonged – was developed by General George McClellan during the period of the Civil War. His design was unique in that the saddleback was open in the center, allowing for a sort of air conditioning between horse and rider. The design was also useful in winter— cavalry riders wore heavy woolen great...