Black Country Saddles
The history of “Black Country”
The “Black Country” is a historical name given to the industrial area of the Midlands around Birmingham which gained its name in the mid-nineteenth century by Elihu Burritt, the American Consul to Birmingham in 1862 who described the area as ‘Black by day and red by night’ due to the smoke from the many thousands of iron working foundries, collieries and forges. Within this area Walsall became the centre of the leather trade given its existence alongside the lime pits which are the key for tanning leather.
There is also a famous but dubious anecdote about Queen Victoria ordering the lowering of the blinds on her carriage as the royal train passed through the area.
About Black Country…
Rob Cullen and John Hartley, with more than 80 years of combined experience as Master Saddlers, have made the name of Black Country Saddles synonymous with innovation and quality throughout the equestrian world.
Extensive knowledge and understanding of saddle manufacture allows us to produce a range that can be fitted to all types of horse. Our saddlemakers work closely with the saddle fitters to ensure the best possible combination of fit for both horse and rider.
We are committed to providing you with the best possible product available. We have declined the mass production demands and remain with tradition continuing to use and source quality British materials, from the initial stages of the wood laminated Spring Trees complete with 10 year guarantee to 100% pure wool flocking, English leathers and skilled craftsmanship found at the benches of our factory in Walsall, England.
HOW TO ORDER YOUR SADDLE
We specialize in custom built saddles, so the majority of the saddles we make here are to order – for a specific client and horse. Our worldwide dealers are all able to offer a saddle assessment as well as the all important aftercare service. We work closely with trained and qualified saddle fitters so it is important that you trust and value their advice, experience and expertise. It is in the interest of their reputation as a BCS specialist to ensure the best possible combination of fit for both horse and rider. Not every brand of saddle is suited to every horse, so we offer an extensive variety of saddle trees and panels options on all of our models, giving endless options in which to work with. Your saddle fitter will be able to establish the correct tree “frame work” and panel for your horse on which to build your saddle. Then for you the rider any alterations regarding flap length, blocks will be discussed and finally a choice of leather finishes and colours to choose from.
These details along with the templates are sent to the factory and discussions on any particular requirements. Our manufacturing time is normally within 4 weeks.
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