New Hope For Old And New Saddles By Tommy BrannonDo you have a saddle or some tack that needs repair or restoration? Are you in the market for a new saddle? If you are, then New Hope Saddles and Tack in Ripley, Tennessee is the place to go. Russell Langley, a master leather craftsman, is the owner of the shop. Russell apprenticed for many years with Don Abbot, owner of B & B Saddles in Brighton, Tennessee. When Don moved west to Arkansas, Russell decided to set up his own shop in Ripley. Russell specializes in the restoration of older and antique saddles. In his shop one may find works in progress, such as an old McClellan saddle, the type used by the U.S. Cavalry, or an heirloom children’s saddle being restored to decorate a new mother’s nursery. Russell is happy to share his knowledge of the construction and techniques used in the manufacture of any saddle, new or used. The store has a variety of new saddles and tack. Russell says he does not carry cheap imports, but stocks his store with tack of the highest quality construction and materials. As the old saying goes, “If you want to know what is the best quality, ask the person who fixes it.” New Hope Saddles and Tack is open Wednesday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturdays 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The store is located at1243 Hwy. 51 North, number 1. For more information call 731-637-3356 or email rlangly@bellsouth.net.