Family loses antique saddle

Courtesy photo STOLEN FAMILY HEIRLOOM

Someone stole an antique saddle from a pickup truck parked on the street behind the rodeo arena last Wednesday between 7 and 10:30 p.m. Melinda White is hoping someone saw the thief or has seen the saddle and can help her recover this family heirloom she inherited from her father.

"The saddlemaker went out of business in the late 1800's," White said. "We think the saddle is about 150 years old."

She described it as a highback saddle with a five-inch horn, rawhide brim and rawhide-laced cantle. Over the years the saddle has acquired a number of distinctive markings. It's branded with a TW and on the stirrups it has NLBRA (National Little Britches Rodeo Association) All Around Champion 1974. There's a tear in the front leather on both sides.

It was stolen from a 4-door silver Dodge truck while White's kids were helping with the Lions Club Rodeo. She has filed a police report.

"It means so much to our family," White said. "Surely with all that crowd, someone saw something."

Anyone with information can call the police or call White at 383-9283.