The term “3-bell mule” dates back to the days when the Cavalry used horses and mules in military service. When a green mule was brought in, its tail was shaved.
By the time the mule was able to pack, (packsaddle broke) its tail hair had grown back and a tassel (or “bell”) was trimmed on the tail and was called a one-bell mule.
Later when the mule learned to drive, a second tassel was trimmed below the first and was called a two-bell mule.
Finally, when that mule learned to ride, (saddle broke) a third tassel was trimmed below the second, thus a mule that could pack, drive and ride was a three bell Mule.
Mules were transferred to different divisions during their Military service and the bells shaved in their tail told the troops their level of training and capability.
SoMoMule’s Handmade one, two & three bell tassels are reminiscent of days of old and still apply to the Mules of today!
