Split reins?

[Outrider]

I think so . Almost looks like a "romal" or, I am thinking, split reins with the other one on the near side of the horse out of site which could explain why he is holding the reins like he is ...to keep the gathered together. I am having a hard time believing this guy is cavalry or military at all. Just doesnt look like it to me . He is also using what appears to be a halter/bridle and riding a Muley(?)
I have wondered for a long time about split reins in the period, how common/available were they among civilians ? I could be wrong of course but this fella looks civilian to me, if so, what a cool find.

thoughts?

[Ken Knopp]

Re: Split reins?

Patrick,

WOW! Great image!! My observations....

Not military but civilian; Eastern U.S.?; probably 1880's/90's?... notice the bowler & shirt; I note the military M1859 wood stirrup pattern; Saddle is an English pattern with knee rolls; interesting saddle "pad" or blanket; girth is quite wide- again 1890's English type stuff; Bridle has the ring and buckle attachment for the bit like a halter bridle but unclear; Looks like a single rein, Pelham (?) bit; the split reins are "cool"!
What is that on the bridle below where a rosette would be? Some sort of ornamentation? Maybe just a "blurred" buckle- cannot make it out.
Great image!! Where is it from?

Just my thoughts....anyone else?

Keep em' comin Patrick!

Ken R Knopp

























(?);

[Lance Stifle]

Re: Split reins?

Hello Pat and Ken
here in Australia split reins are pretty much the thing amongst experienced horsemen. Youngsters are usually taught with joined reins and progess to split reins once experienced.
I can't comment on how you arrange split reins over there, but here the offside
rein lays over to the near side and vice versa (they cross over each other). The reason being that if you're thrown or whatever the reins being unjoined won't get caught up around the horses legs; are easy to retrieve, and with a quick dismount on the run theres no need to fling them over an excited horses head.
Of course with the formal military parades (Aust. Light horse etc) reins are joined.

Ken, your book "Confederate Saddles and Equipment" comes highly recommended, can I buy a signed copy from you?
Lance Stifle
(Ken Stewart)