BISON SADDLERY - Key Persons

Job Titles:

• Owner and Master Saddle Maker

A lifelong interest in history, horses, and creating aesthetically pleasing, functional items by hand has always steered the course of Steve Stefely's life. Growing up in Chicago, Steve garnered an appreciation for crafting eye-pleasing utilitarian items by watching his carpenter father at work. After graduating high school, Steve landed a job at a leather repair shop sweeping floors and cleaning saddles. This job led to Steve's introduction to Otto Maile, a former WWII German Luftwaffe pilot who apprenticed in the leather trade in his native country prior to the war. Otto took Steve under his wing and later offered him his own apprenticeship at the shop, which he eagerly accepted. During the next seven years of his apprenticeship, Steve built, repaired, and altered nearly every conceivable leather item, from elephant harnesses and camel saddles to equipment cases, equine prosthetics, and a variety of saddles. Following his internship, Steve later relocated to Montana and spent time working as a packer in wilderness areas, trained horses for ranches and breeding outfits, and worked sheep and cattle. But all the while, he was able to keep up a small shop and remained active in the leather trade. Since starting Bison Saddlery, Steve has continued perfecting his craft and producing exceptional and unique pieces of functional leather art. No matter the request, Steve rises to the challenge to deliver a one-of-a-kind piece you'll be proud of for years to come.