December 11, 2004

By: Sandra Geldart
Website: http://www.happy-horse-saddles.com

Mexican saddles - The western forefathers

Evolving from the original Spanish saddles, Mexican saddles were the predecessor to the latter-day western saddle. No longer made in the way the had been for centuries, Mexican saddles are now becoming highly collectable.

Western saddles are styled, for the most part alot like the original Mexican saddles. While some changes have been made over time, the saddle design remains largely an evolved version of the Spanish Vaquero’s saddle used by the working cowboys in Mexico.At one time, areas of New Mexico, Mexico-New Spain, and Texas in the early 19th century were often referred to as Spanish, and the saddle that ia now known as the western saddle would, in fact have been referred to as a Spanish saddle.

It is getting harder to find authentic Mexican saddles, but they can still be found through some antique dealers and even on the internet. Beware of buying “sight unseen” as you do not always get an accurate picture of what you are getting, and returning the Mexican saddle may be difficult, or impossible with some dealers.

About The Author:

Sandra Geldart is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.happy-horse-saddles.com.  With a degree in Equine Science Technology, Sandra brings you 27 years experience working with horses including showing horses and barrel racing.