Harnessing Sequence

Harnessing draft horses is virtually becoming a lost art.  This is due to the lack of work for teams because hauling and farm and ranch work has become mechanized since the advent of the automobile.  Here is the way Chris Hone harnesses the Diamond Z Hitch teams for his parades and shows.

1. Chris Hone puts collar and attached hames over the head.  The horses are trained to stand untied.  Most people will need to unhook the collar and place it around the horse’s neck instead of over the head.
2. Back straps
3. Britchen- hook into back straps.  Britchens are used on the wheel team (team next to the wagon), the larger sized horses are normally used on the wheel team because they have to hold back more weight.
4. The britchen is hooked to pole straps and neck yoke straps.
5. No britchens are used on the lead teams.  They use croupers instead.
6. Bridles are placed on the horses.  The horses are standing untied.  They use a Liverpool straight-shank bit with check straps.
7. Bridle and check straps behind the ears and head.
8. Heart rings—used to keep the driving reins straight between the horses.
9. Overview from the driver’s seat -- the horses hooked up and ready to drive.
Click on photos for larger views.