For your consideration is this original, Montana Deer Lodge prison made hitched horse hair belt from the 1960s. Deer Lodge Prison in Montana, officially known as the Montana State Prison, has a unique and storied history of producing horsehair hitched western equipment, a craft that gained recognition across the American West. Beginning in the early 20th century, inmates at the prison developed the intricate art of hitching horsehair into decorative and functional items such as bridles, reins, belts, and hatbands. This time-intensive craft, often requiring hundreds of hours per piece, became a creative outlet for incarcerated men and a source of pride and skill development. Over time, the prison's horsehair products earned a reputation for their craftsmanship, artistry, and durability, becoming prized items among cowboys, collectors, and Western enthusiasts. The tradition continues to symbolize a blend of Western heritage, rehabilitation, and Montana folk art. This belt shows a wonderfully and professionally crafted horsehair and leather construction. The horse hair shows colors of blue, red / pink, white and black. It shows good condition overall with slight wear present and slight damage as the belt has a section of leather cut off of it. It measures 36 1/8" L x 1 3/8" W and weighs under 6 ounces.