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Chester A. Reynolds Award
Awarded in 2011
Howard Council
Howard Council was a renowned saddlemaker from Lawton, Oklahoma, whose life and work left an indelible mark on the world of rodeo and calf roping. Born in 1926 in Durant, Oklahoma, Howard discovered his love for leatherwork as a young man. Teaching himself to tool leather, he began by making belts for local cowboys before venturing into saddle-making. His first saddle, built in 1947 as an experiment, launched a lifelong career rooted in craftsmanship and innovation.
Howard’s dedication to quality and fit revolutionized the industry. By flattening bars for better horse comfort and experimenting with fiberglass, he created saddles that optimized ropers’ performance. His creations gained widespread recognition, earning a loyal clientele, including world champions like Roy Cooper and Trevor Brazile.
Howard’s craftsmanship extended beyond functionality, featuring intricate floral tooling that became his hallmark. Over the years, his shop became a hub for roping enthusiasts, adorned with memorabilia and his artistic works.
Honored with the Chester A. Reynolds Memorial Award in 2011, he passed away in 2014 at age 87, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled craftsmanship and integrity.
Howard Council was a renowned saddlemaker from Lawton, Oklahoma, whose life and work left an indelible mark on the world of rodeo and calf roping. Born in 1926 in Durant, Oklahoma, Howard discovered his love for leatherwork as a young man. Teaching himself to tool leather, he began by making belts for local cowboys before venturing into saddle-making. His first saddle, built in 1947 as an experiment, launched a lifelong career rooted in craftsmanship and innovation.
Howard’s dedication to quality and fit revolutionized the industry. By flattening bars for better horse comfort and experimenting with fiberglass, he created saddles that optimized ropers’ performance. His creations gained widespread recognition, earning a loyal clientele, including world champions like Roy Cooper and Trevor Brazile.
Howard’s craftsmanship extended beyond functionality, featuring intricate floral tooling that became his hallmark. Over the years, his shop became a hub for roping enthusiasts, adorned with memorabilia and his artistic works.
Honored with the Chester A. Reynolds Memorial Award in 2011, he passed away in 2014 at age 87, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled craftsmanship and integrity.
