1850
This unusual side-saddle, c. 1850, is a lady's English travelling saddle. As well as the traditional handkerchief pocket, most of the offside flap has been made into a 'pouch' for carrying belongings, fastened by a leather strap and buckle (see close-up picture). It also has numerous 'D' rings around the cantle and other places on the side-saddle for attaching belongings. It may have been used by a lady accompanying her husband on a visit to another county, many miles away, or on a longer journey to see the sights of England, similar to that taken by Celia Fiennes in the seventeenth century.
The maker's label on this side-saddle has become difficult to decipher through age, but generally reads as H. Eavens, or Heavens, Hunting, Racing and Steeplechase Saddler and Harness Maker of South Molton Street (or Lane), Oxford Street, London. Some of the leather is 'fish skin' leather, produced by many tanneries during the nineteenth century. The seat is quite a large one, in keeping with most saddles of the period.
Side Saddle Lady would be happy to hear from anyone who has more information on this type of side-saddle.