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The Plantation saddle was derived from the
English saddle of the colonial era, which was
characterized by its flat seat. The pommel and
cantle were slightly higher on the Plantation for
better security. Although the stirrups are missing
on the example at left, these were usually made
of iron or brass. The saddlebags are large and
typical for the era.

This saddle was most popular along the Atlantic
seaboard and where gaited horses were bred.
The smooth trot of these horses, such as the
Saddlebred, allowed the rider to negotiate the
long rows of agricultural fields at a fast, easy
pace.

Pre-war mounted militia units were usually
comprised of the most prominent citizens of a
local community and their saddles often
continued to serve in a military capacity. Many of
these saddles proved inadequate, however, after
the outbreak of hostilities. On a long campaign
the flat seat could sore a horse's back as it lost
weight. Except for a few officers, most of these
were replaced with more practical open-slotted
saddles when they became available.

Cris Malone