Frame Size (H x L): 47.5” x 40”
Pennant Size (H x L): 35.5” x 28”

Offered is a set of sheepskin chaps tied to the historic CS Cattle Company of Cimarron, New Mexico, a remarkable example of early ranching gear. Likely dating to the late 1800s or early 1900s, they reflect the craftsmanship and functionality essential to ranch life during that era. Stamped with “CS Cattle Company Cimarron, New Mexico” and marked with the handwritten note “by Drover Jesus B.,” these chaps provide a tangible connection to the ranch’s history and their maker or user. Their design showcases rugged practicality, built to withstand the demands of daily ranch work.

Constructed from leather and sheepskin, the chaps feature a dual-layered belt system with brass hardware for a secure fit. Two front pockets offered practical storage for small tools or essentials, while decorative tassels along the seams reinforced durability and added aesthetic appeal. These details highlight the balance of utility and artistry typical of handmade gear from this period.

Whether from the late 19th or early 20th century, these chaps embody the resourcefulness and craftsmanship of ranching culture. Their sturdy materials, detailed construction, and clear provenance make them an exceptional artifact of ranching history, shedding light on the working conditions and ingenuity of ranchers in northeastern New Mexico.

The combination of sheepskin and a leather belt system, along with tassel reinforcements, aligns with a transitional period when ranching gear began evolving. This predates the widespread popularity of woolies in the early 20th century. The dual-layer belt with brass hardware and functional front pockets reflects the personalized, handmade craftsmanship typical before mass production. The “CS Cattle Company” stamp ties the chaps to the ranch established in 1873, and the handwritten note “by Drover Jesus B.” adds a personal touch, further suggesting their origin during the ranch’s early operations.

CHAP HISTORY
The term "chaps," derived from the Spanish word chaparreras, originated in the 16th and 17th centuries with Mexican vaqueros who used them as protective leg coverings in brushy or rugged environments. Early chaps, often crafted from thick leather, were tied to a belt or saddle and served to shield riders from thorny vegetation, harsh weather, and the wear and tear of horseback riding. As cattle herding spread across North America in the 19th century, chaps became essential gear for cowboys and ranchers.

By the 1800s, chaps evolved into various styles suited to specific needs. Shotgun chaps, with their straight-leg design, were practical for general work, while batwing chaps offered greater freedom of movement. Woolies, made from sheepskin or angora, gained popularity in colder climates for their warmth. Regardless of style, chaps were indispensable for protecting riders’ legs and clothing, symbolizing the resilience and ingenuity of ranching life.

CS CATTLE COMPANY
Established in 1873 by brothers Frank and Charles Springer, the CS Cattle Company is a historic working ranch in northeastern New Mexico, spanning 130,000 acres of plains, foothills, and mountain terrain. Originally part of the Maxwell Land Grant, the ranch carries a legacy of over 150 years of cattle ranching, horse breeding, and hunting under the stewardship of the Springer and Davis families.

Frank Springer, an Iowa-born lawyer, laid the foundation for the ranch in 1873 when he purchased his first 1,000 acres near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. His brother Charles joined him in 1878, contributing the initials "CS" that define the ranch's brand. Over time, the ranch expanded, blending cattle ranching traditions with innovative practices, such as a horse breeding program that began in the 1880s and continues today.

Management of the ranch transitioned through generations, with Les Davis, Frank Springer’s grandson, taking leadership in 1947. Under his stewardship, the ranch diversified, enhancing its cattle operations and gaining recognition for its contributions to the American Quarter Horse breed. Horses bred at the CS were celebrated as cavalry mounts, polo ponies, and ranch horses.

Today, the CS Cattle Company remains a family-run enterprise, preserving its traditions while embracing modern practices. Its activities include cattle production, horse breeding, and guided hunting, utilizing its expansive terrain. The ranch endures as a symbol of resilience and innovation, embodying the spirit of the American West.

Conservation Process: The chaps were hand sewn to cotton fabric, and both were hand sewn to a mounting board. To prevent the black dye in the cotton fabric from seeping into the chaps, they were first washed in a standard wash and then in a dye setting wash. The chaps are positioned behind Optium Museum Acrylic.

Frame: The frame is a modern, rustic design crafted from textured brown wood. Its natural finish and visible grain patterns give it an authentic, handcrafted appearance, complementing the historic nature of the sheepskin chaps.

Condition Report: The sheepskin chaps show significant wear, with noticeable losses in the front, likely due to both extensive use and the passage of time. Stains and discoloration are present, further attesting to their heavy use in a working ranch environment. Despite these signs of wear, the condition adds a layer of authenticity and character, reflecting their history and the rugged demands of ranch life.

Collectability Level: The Extraordinary – Museum Quality Offerings  
Date of Origin: 1873-1910