Beauregard's Saddle

[Mark Choate]

A friend sent me this link today and I wanted to share it with those of you who also love saddles of the period and especially ones which are connected to specific soldiers.

As the link will explain, this saddle, which is of the classic English influence and hints of dressage styling, was custom ordered by Gen P.G.T. Beauregard and when it was being brought in by one of the blockade runners, was captured and sold as "captured goods." It has finally made it's way back and is a treasure for the eyes. Note the more forward skirting and the knee rolls (which I don't know that I have seen on a saddle found this early). Also, the matching pommel holsters and the saddle bags. I hope more pictures surface on this find. I would love to examine this beauty up close.

Oh, and check out those stirrups!! The design on the "hooding" look almost serpentine in nature. Don't know if they were part of the original order, but given everything else, it is very likely.

Enjoy.........and comment!

http://www.postandcourier.com/article/20130704/PC16/130709762/1356/charleston-x2019-s-civil-war-defender-gets-his-cargo-151-years-late

Mark

[Ken Knopp]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

WOW!! Wonderful saddle! Since the article states that B. ordered this from a Paris France firm I wonder if it is actually French. The cut of the skirt suggests that to me. I love the stirrups too. In fact, there is a somewhat similar pair for sale from England on ebay right now. Perhaps the stirrups are English?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pair-of-Early-Iron-Stirrups-/221251075017?pt=UK_Collectables_Militaria_LE&hash=item3383977bc9

I agree! Better photos would be nice.

You know, even 150 years later "stuff" still comes out of the woodwork.....AMAZING!! In fact, I am gathering some photos and details right now on "three" other saddles all with provenance to a "high" CS General officer. I have photos of two of the three now and two of the saddles have never see the light of day. One is reported to be a CS "make". Can't let much out of the bag yet but the AC will be the first place I post it....soon.

Really cool Mark!

Ken R Knopp

[Forrestcavalryman]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

That is in amazing condition! Thanks for sharing this Mark.

[Tom Craig]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

The stirrups are super cool! The whole rig is pretty neat. If only I was made of money I'd have it reproduced.
Take care,
Tom Craig
1st Maine Cavalry

[alex0126]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

I toured Charleston for the Fourth of July holidays and visited the Museum because of their new Union encampment on Shute's Folly Island exhibit. Lo and behold, as I reached the top of the stairway I saw Beauregard's beautiful saddle. It was in a glass case in front of a massive window, but in spite of the conditions I think I got some decent photos. Ken, I can't tell how many hours I've read and re-read your research findings, so this is me returning the favor. Enjoy the pics!
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Alex Faulkner

[Ken Knopp]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

James,

Thank you from all of us for posting these fine photos. The saddle is even "prettier" than I had imagined. Looks 1840's or 50's French to me and much different from the typical British Hussars but I am no expert on European saddles. I note the bit is just like one a friend of mine picked up on ebay a few years ago.

These are wonderful. Thank you for the effort.

Ken R Knopp

[Ken Knopp]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

Ooooppss! I uploaded the wrong (kinda) bit. That too is French but the bit I intended to upload is posted herewith. Sorry,

Ken R KNopp

[Mark Choate]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

Yes, Alex (I assume that is your name), thank you so much for the beautiful pictures. I was really wanting to see more.

Now, at the risk of sounding ungrateful, I have to put on my moderator hat and tell you that it is a foundational rule here that all posts must be signed. I realize this is your first post, but this has to be done. If you will please either edit your post to add or just post again with your name and I will add it for you.

Glad you are posting on the forum and especially glad for the photos!!!

thanks,
Mark

[rbruno]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

Is that one strap the only thing that held the pommel holster on? I would think they would flap up and down on the horses neck.

[Mike Ventura]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

Rob - Very observant and a good point!

[ButtermilkRanger]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

I think the pelican rosettes are a nice touch. I guess Pierre stayed closer to his roots than I thought. What is the strap in the pic in front of the pommel holster with the pelican rosette? How are the pommel holsters and saddle bags attached? I also noted the brass bar buckles.

[rbruno]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

Larry,
I noticed that too. Wasn't sure what that was in front under the pommel holsters. My guess would be the breast strap just pulled up underneath for better display. That is a guess though. I am also wondering about the small strap in the center of the pommel holsters. Looks like it has a button slit in the end, and not for a buckle. I am still wondering how those things held on with only the two straps attaching to the saddle.

[Iron Scout]

Re: Beauregard's Saddle

Greetings Folks,

The saddle, etc. is currently on display at the SC Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum FYI. To say you can get up close and personal with it would be an understatement!

Regards,

Neill Rose
Iron Scouts
Palmetto Guard