Clifford Gordon Ketchum, a celebrated artisan and craftsman, distinguished himself as a master saddle maker, silversmith, and leather stamper, whose exceptional skills and attention to detail earned him widespread recognition. Born on January 20, 1918, in Aston, Monroe County, Iowa, USA, Clifford was the proud son of Arthur Leslie Antil and Dorothy Nelson Ketchum.
Arthur Leslie Antil, Clifford's father, was a pillar of strength and guidance, while Dorothy Nelson Ketchum, his mother, was a beacon of love and support.
Ketchum's thespian pursuits extended beyond his primary profession, as he took on occasional acting roles, gracing the silver screen with appearances in two films released in 1959, specifically "Pork Chop Hill" and "The Young Land". Meanwhile, from 1957 to 1965, he concurrently honed his craft in the realm of television, contributing to the production of three distinct series. Two of these series, "77 Sunset Strip" and "Tales of Wells Fargo", would come to feature Ketchum's talents on multiple occasions, with three notable appearances each.
Ketchum's genuine enthusiasm and aptitude lay not in the realm of general pursuits, but rather in the precise and meticulous art of saddle making. Prior to embarking on his professional journey, Ketchum had the opportunity to hone his skills under the watchful eye of Luis Ringlero, a revered master saddlemaker, at the esteemed Porter Saddle Company in Phoenix, Arizona. This apprenticeship, commenced during his high school years, served as a foundational stepping stone for Ketchum's future endeavors. Fast forward to the year 1940, and at the tender age of 22, Ketchum had already assumed the role of manager at a prominent Los Angeles Saddle Shop, a testament to his rapid rise within the industry.
In the year 1940, a significant milestone occurred in the life of Ketchum, as he tied the knot for the very first time, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his personal life.
Fast-forwarding to 1942, Ketchum took a bold step by enlisting in the United States Army, a decision that would ultimately lead him to serve his country until his release in 1946. This period of service undoubtedly had a profound impact on his life, shaping his character and instilling in him a sense of duty and patriotism.
Following the conclusion of World War II, Ketchum, along with his family, made the momentous decision to relocate to the vibrant city of Los Angeles, a place that would become his new home for many years to come.
Once settled in Los Angeles, Ketchum embarked on a new career path, working for various saddle shops in the area. This experience ultimately prepared him for the next significant chapter in his life, as he co-founded the San Fernando Valley Saddlery with his business partner, Art Hugenberger, in the city of Van Nuys, California.
Ketchum's entrepreneurial endeavors took a significant turn when he decided to acquire the interests of his former partner, thereby assuming sole ownership of the San Fernando Valley Saddlery. This pivotal move enabled him to further hone his craft and capitalize on his growing reputation as a master saddle maker.
As his skills continued to evolve, Ketchum's creations gained immense popularity among stunt professionals and aficionados alike. His saddles were frequently utilized in various television and film productions, lending a touch of authenticity to the on-screen action. Moreover, his handcrafted saddles were highly prized by genuine cowboys, who appreciated the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into each and every piece.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Ketchum also developed a specialty in crafting ornate saddles adorned with intricate silverwork, which were specifically designed for participation in grand parades and other ceremonial events. These showstopping creations not only showcased his exceptional skill as a saddle maker but also provided a unique and memorable experience for spectators.
Ketchum's impressive professional portfolio transcended the realm of saddle making, as his equine companion made appearances in several notable Disney productions, including the 1958 film "Tonka" and the 1959 cinematic masterpiece "Darby O'Gill and the Little People". Furthermore, it is worth noting that the saddle utilized by the renowned actor James Arness was, in fact, a bespoke creation from the esteemed San Fernando Saddlery. In addition to his work as a master saddle maker, Ketchum played a pivotal role in mentoring numerous apprentices, who had the privilege of learning from his expertise. On a personal note, Ketchum was married three times to the lovely ladies Wanda Juanita Gledhill, Patricia A. Fullerton, and Anna Gail Jensen.
Ketchum's life was cut short in a devastating turn of events, as he met his untimely demise on September 11, 1984, in the small town of Milton-Freewater, nestled within the borders of Umatilla County, Oregon, United States of America.
