The Virginian

I have to admit that the stitching is also black. It's faded right now but I will take some photos soon and post them. I do agree with you, aftermarket silver trim would probably not look right. I have to replace almost all the conchos so silver is probably the way to go. I'd also like to find a fancy bit to go with it) Everything on it is original. The only problem I had with the braided strings is the ones on the back skirt were used (by tex tan) to attach the bags to the saddle. They screwed in. I never liked it and want to put dee rings under the cantle to attach the bags and leave the strings in place under the bags (maybe put a new one on each side for outside the bag. I've had some who admired it. I loved it, and it rode very comfortably both for me and my quarter horses. I'm not riding much these days and don't have horses anymore but like the saddle, and the colt and winchester I bought the same day at the same place, we've been together for a long time and I hate to see it neglected. No offense to the working cowboys out there, but I guess it has finally come to pass that pretty much, only girls ride horses. Watch for the photos when I post them. Thanks for coming back to me, I wasn't sure if the string had grown cold.

I also have a custom made Golden Cutter with tapaderos made for me in 1970 by Tex Tan. The photo is the same saddle with slightly different customization. Mine is Black and Basket Stamped with matching taps, a carbine scabbard, saddlebags, and bridle. I paid about $1000 at the time, and worth every penny. I am about to try to get the saddle restored and redyed. I am hoping that Tex Tan will do it but am open to suggestions. It's a real working saddle and pretty enough to ride parades. I've also toyed with the idea of having a little silver put on it but not sure yet.