14″ Hess & Hopkins Vintage Ranch Saddle

This saddle is a literal piece of history. Its not often you find a truly vintage, historic saddle in rideable condition. While you may not recognize the brand Hess & Hopkins right off, this leather company was a stable for over 100 years. Hess & Hopkins Leather Company was founded by Luther M. Hess & Theodore F. Hopkins after the Civil War in 1877. At the peak of operation, the Hess & Hopkins Company employed 450 individuals and tanned 350 + steer hides per day. During both World Wars, H&H produced tens of thousands of scabbards, holsters, harness, and other leather goods for the US Military. Sadly, the company closed its doors for the last time in 1960 following the death of Arthur T Hopkins, the son of Theodore F Hopkins.

While this saddle is not dated-it was made BEFORE both Blevin Slides and slide buckles, with pin adjustment on the fenders, meaning it was made before 1940. It is very likely this was made as early as the late 1920’s. Despite the fact that this saddle was likely around for the second World War, it is in absolutely incredible condition. Built to be a work saddle, built on a wood tree that is still ready to hold a rope. Fits and measures 14″, offering a slick seat with a very deep seat bed and raised twist, riding very securely. On what is equivalent to Semi QH Bars (both horses and people were a bit leaner back in the day), measuring 6″ with wider flare, great clearance, and rock to the bars. Real wool shearling underside. 2.75″ x 2.75″ post horn, 12″ swells, 2″ cantle, 26″ skirt. What really makes this saddle stand out is the tooling and rawhide accents. Rawhide pencil roll, horn cap, and swell binding-carried through tot he rings. The Art Deco/Geometric hand stamping is so darn cool. Darn near everything is original and SOUND on this saddle. We some routine maintenance on this one, replacing some of the old screws, a bit of minor stitching repair, but this one is ready for another 100 years. We have literally seen the tree and its rock solid. Even the pins on the fenders are with the saddle! –that never happens– The only thing not original are the stirrups, but they are not a set of new ones by any means. The leather is a bit dry due to time and storage, but has already soaked up some attention. Of course, there are a few scuffs here and there, signs of use, but far less than saddles a fraction of its age. This saddle is ready to ride-but we really hope that it ends up with a collector, museum, or for decor. It is absolutely beautiful. Just wait until you see it!