The history of "Black Country"

The "Black Country" is a historical name given to the industrial area of the Midlands around Birmingham which gained its name from Elihu Burritt, the American Consul to Birmingham who, in 1862, described the area as "Black by day and red by night" due to the smoke from the many thousands of ironworking foundries, collieries and forges. As well as lime pits which are the key for tanning leather, hence Walsall became the centre of the leather trade.

There is also a famous but dubious anecdote about Queen Victoria ordering the lowering of the blinds on her carriage, as the royal train passed through the area.


All about us....

With more than 60 years of combined experience as Master Saddlers, Rob Cullen and John Hartley have made the name of Black Country Saddles, synonymous with innovation and quality throughout the equestrian world.

Extensive knowledge and understanding of saddle manufacture allows us to produce a range that can be fitted to all types of horses. Our saddlemakers work closely with the saddle fitters to ensure the best possible combination of fit for both horse and rider.

We are committed to providing you with the best possible product available. We have declined the mass production demands and instead continued to use traditional methods and source quality British materials, from the initial stages of the Wood laminated Spring Trees to 100% wool flocking, English leathers and qualified craftsmanship.

All of our saddles are hand-crafted at the factory in Walsall, England and are available in the UK or for export all around the world.