Existing comment:
Grant's Saddle:
The saddle used by General Ulysses S. Grant during the American Civil war was the Model 1847 Dragoon or "Grimsley" Saddle. Adopted by the Army in 1848, the saddle proved rugged and relatively comfortable for the rider but was hard on the mount during long campaigns. Although later replaced by the McClellan saddle, the Grimsley was used throughout the Civil War, particularly by officers. Grant's saddle has a quilted seat, a feature often found on officer's saddles.
Colonel,
I take pleasure in presenting you the "Grimsley Saddle" which I have used in all the battles from Fort Henry, Tenn. in Feb. 1862 to the battles about Petersburg, Va. ending in the surrender of Lee's Army at Appomattox C.H. Va. on the 9th of Aprl, 1865.
I present this saddle not for any intrinsic value it possesses but as a mark of friendship and esteem after continued service with you through the Great Rebellion, our services commencing together at Cairo, Ill., in the Fall of 1861 and continuing to this present day. I hope our friendship, if not our continued services together, will continue as heretofore.
Yours Truly,
US Grant |