Customer Reviews: Read 5 more reviews...
 Great Book November 15, 2006
I'am very happy to have this book in my collection. Lots of great pictures and information.
This Book is a wonderful PART of a larger picture... May 23, 2002
15 out of 15 found this review helpful
Mr. Beatie researched and wrote this book in the late 70's. I agree with other reviewers that there is some lack of information in certain areas. However, I urge those who treasure saddles for their artistry and historic value to forgive these criticisms and to see the book as it is--a beautifully presented depiction of the history of the saddle in the U.S. The author begins his book in earlier times, but quickly moves to this country. It is apparent that the author is in love with the western saddle for it is on this piece that he devotes most energy. I have collected, conserved, researched, and restored old saddles since I was 11 years old (I'm 41 now) and I can tell readers that in the 70's, and even until the last 12 years or less, it was very difficult to research saddlery due to the fact that one often needed to physically examine a saddle to secure one's own conclusions regarding its history, origin, and age. Often, photographs could not provide enough detail to offer conclusive information. Authors of saddlemaking and saddle collecting books in this decade are fortunate to have at their disposal the technology we now take for granted. Information is more accessible, and many saddle owners who were heretofore unknown are now able to connect across thousands of miles to share their knowledge with each other. And, there are now more of us out there, discovering these treasures in barns and attics. So, please, if you love saddlery, forgive Mr. Beatie for being on the forefront of the writers on this subject, forgive him for having published his book twenty-two years ago instead of two years ago, and enjoy this big, beautiful book for what it is--a splendid visual homage to the western saddle.
 Bias December 29, 2001
4 out of 10 found this review helpful
When I first read this book a few years ago, I was very dissapointed at the fact that Mr Beatie has not given credit to the true creator, the mexican horseman, of the so called "western saddle". I would rather recommend a study on saddles done by the Smithsonian Institite. Mr Russel's book, like many other books on western culture is full of bias. This book is not worth the price.
 Dissapointing October 10, 2001
0 out of 4 found this review helpful
I recieved this book as a gift and was SO EXCITED.
I wished to learn more about old saddles, dates, maufacturing, types, etc.
I was really dissapointed when I sat down to read it.
It was very vauge...not at all what I was expecting.
And NOT WORTH (the money) (to me).
Dissapointing October 10, 2001
7 out of 10 found this review helpful
I recieved this book as a gift and was SO EXCITED.
I wished to learn more about old saddles, dates, maufacturing, types, etc.
I was really dissapointed when I sat down to read it.
It was very vauge...not at all what I was expecting.
And NOT WORTH $50.00 (to me).
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