McClellan 1917 Military Cavalry Saddle 12 inch Seat

Description

12" McClellan saddle believed to be circa 1917 (wood stirrups are stamped "Spalding 1917 KP").  It was most recently used in the National Lancers calvary unit in MA for riding in parades and weekly drills.  New quarter side straps, quarter strap rings, stirrup straps, and cincha straps were purchased from Tom Smith Maker in 2008 and are of top quality.  Note that the Tom Smith Maker stirrup straps do not have fenders and are not shown in the photos.
The fenders riveted to the stirrup straps shown in the photos were on the saddle when it was purchased and are very likely not original issue.  Although these stirrup leathers/
fenders are eye-catching, they were not used for riding due to cracking where the leather strap goes through the brass fitting.
Overall the stitching is in very good condition however there is one area along the edge of the tree to the left of the cantel where the stitching is open.
The initials "H.R.S." were stamped/embossed into the back of the cantel with a sharp object at some point in history.  When I purchased the saddle in 2007 the then owner found it interesting to wonder whether or not a soldier had done this back when the saddle was in service.
Please ask questions.  This is a gorgeous piece of history the next steward should feel privlaged to own.