Ever hear of J.Z. Horter Co?

[Kelloggkid]

J Z Horter Co out of Habana

I picked up this old square skirt saddle because it had a maker's name on it.  Unfortunately, I can't find out anything about this maker in my books or with Google.  In fact, I've never heard of Habana either.

Thanks,

Greg

 

[Mark842]

1 hour ago, nstarleather said:

Seems strange but possible that Habana is Havana, since in Spanish "v" and "b" make the same sound...though you'd think they spell it right on a stamp.

Whether or not it is spelled correctly probably depends on if you live in Habana Cuba, or your an Anglo that visits Havana Cuba.

Habana is simply Havana in Spanish I believe.

[Kelloggkid]

20 hours ago, Mark842 said:

Whether or not it is spelled correctly probably depends on if you live in Habana Cuba, or your an Anglo that visits Havana Cuba.

Habana is simply Havana in Spanish I believe.

I think you guys are probably right. Thank you for your input.

I did find a newspaper article from 1883 stating that JZ was the grandson of George Horter who was a saddle maker in New Orleans from 1860-83.  JZ had a shop from 1882-1903 (assuming also in New Orleans).  It would be possible that he went to Cuba after he closed his shop in New Orleans.  Style-wise, the saddle looks to be early 1900’s instead of late 1800’s due to the full seat.

[Carlos Asse]

J.Z. Horter was an American businessman in the 30s/40s in the city of Habana, Cuba. Diego Velazquez de Cuellar founded the city 'San Cristobal de la Habana' in 1514. Habana with a 'b' is the correct spelling. Americans began to spell it, Havana, I have no idea for what reason. Mr. Horter was a representative of agricultural machinery, and electric motors and lamps. The saddle you have may very well be something that he had made for himself, or something given to him as a gift by some of the sugar cane companies with which he dealt. Since he probably went riding a horse to some sugar cane fields. This is just my assumption. Since I do not believe he had anything to do with leather goods. There is a three story building with his name on it in the middle of 'old Habana' (Habana Vieja).

I just bump into your inquiry while doing other research. I hope it helps you with your inquiry!