Featured in this lot is this Deerlodge, MT Prison made horse hair hitched crop circa 1950's. The crop features a wonderfully and professionally crafted horse hair construction that shows a hitched design with a round shaft and a braided loop with horse hair skirts adorning the shaft and crop tip. 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. The condition of this of this Deerlodge Prison made crop is well preserved with no obvious signs of damage and shows a well preserved overall condition. The measurements of this crop is 34 1/2" x 2 1/4" x 2 1/4". The collective weight of this crop is 12oz.