The Wild West has always been a fascinating era in American history, with tales of gunslingers, outlaws, and cowboys. While we often romanticize the cowboy lifestyle, it can be easy to overlook some of the mundane aspects of their daily lives, such as what they drank. Cowboys spent long days working on the open range, and staying hydrated was essential. But what did they drink?
This article delves into the history of cowboy drinks, from the ubiquitous coffee to more alcoholic beverages like whiskey and beer. We also explore the cultural significance of these drinks, as well as their impact on the cowboy way of life. So saddle up and join us on a journey into the drinks of the Wild West.
The Historical Context of Cowboy Culture
Cowboy culture is a symbol of the American West. Cowboys were essential for the economic and social development of the American West during the 19th century. Cowboys were the backbone of the cattle industry, and they were responsible for herding, branding, and managing cattle. Life as a cowboy was harsh, and they had to work long hours in extreme weather conditions, often with little to no rest.
Cowboys also had to face many dangers such as wild animals, destructive weather, and hostile Native Americans. The cowboy lifestyle was rough, and it was necessary for them to be in top physical condition. It was a rough and tumble lifestyle, and cowboys needed a lot of sustenance to stay energized. So, what did they drink? Discovering what types of liquid refreshments cowboys consumed during this time can give us insight into their lifestyle, preferences, and culture.
Popular Beverages of the Old West
The old west was a time when cowboys formed an essential part of the western culture. Drinks formed an inevitable part of their lifestyle, and some beverages were more popular than others. Beer was considered the quintessential cowboy drink, and saloons stocked up on it. Whiskey followed suit, and it became so popular among cowboys that saloons couldn’t function without it. Cowboys preferred straight whiskey, without any water or ice, as they believed it to be a sign of strength and masculinity.
Another popular drink among cowboys was coffee. It was brought to the west by Mexican ranch workers before it became an everyday staple in the cowboy’s routine. The coffee was brewed strong, and it was often accompanied by a generous amount of sugar and condensed milk. Sarsaparilla, a root beer-like drink, was also popular among cowboys. It was available in saloons and drug stores and was considered an excellent tonic for blood purification and intestinal problems. These popular beverages formed a substantial part of cowboy culture, and even today, they remain a testament to the country’s western heritage.
Whiskey: The Drink of Cowboys
When it comes to the iconic drink of cowboys, whiskey is undeniably the top choice. Whiskey was the go-to drink for cowboys who needed a robust and potent drink after a long day of work. They drank it for the warmth, the rich flavors, and perhaps most importantly, the buzz.
In nineteenth-century America, whiskey was widely available and affordable, making it the perfect drink for cowboys. It also helped that whiskey was easy to transport and store on horseback. Cowboys turned to whiskey to quench their thirst, stave off hunger, and as a means of bonding with fellow cowboys. The drink became so tied to the cowboy persona that it remains a popular drink choice to this day, synonymous with the Old West and the rugged, independent spirit that defined the era.
The Role of Saloons in Cowboy Drinking Culture
Saloons played a key role in the drinking culture of cowboys. They were, in fact, the only place where cowboys could buy alcoholic beverages. Saloons sprang up in several areas and were prevalent in the Wild West during the 19th and early 20th centuries. These places offered cowboys a sanctuary where they could relax, socialize, and unwind after a long day’s work.
Saloons were often found in settlements and frontier towns, offering an escape from harsh living conditions. The cowboys would often sit at the bar for hours, playing games, socializing, and drinking until their hearts were content. These saloons also had a notorious reputation for being a hub for illegal and criminal activity. Nonetheless, they remained a favorite among cowboys and served as a meeting place for the local population, where they could discuss everything, from politics to sports, while enjoying a cold drink.
Moonshine: A Homegrown Alternative to Commercial Alcohol
Moonshine was a popular alternative to commercial alcohol during the cowboy era. It was also known as white lightning, mountain dew, and hooch, among other names. Moonshine was a homemade, illegally distilled alcohol that was produced in rural areas, away from the long arm of the law.
The ingredients used to make moonshine varied, but it usually consisted of corn, sugar, and water. The alcohol content in moonshine was typically very high, ranging from 40% to 75%, which made it a potent drink. It was often consumed straight, but it could also be mixed with other liquors or juice to create different flavors. Moonshine was a popular option among cowboys as it was easily accessible and more affordable than commercial alcohol.
Non-Alcoholic Options Available to Cowboys
Cowboys spent long hours under the hot sun, and it was essential for them to stay hydrated. While alcohol was undoubtedly a favorite among cowboy drinks, they also had non-alcoholic options available to them. One of the most popular non-alcoholic drinks that cowboys had was coffee. Coffee was not only a refreshing drink but also a stimulant that helped them stay focused while herding cattle or on long rides.
Cowboys also enjoyed drinking sarsaparilla, a carbonated beverage that somewhat resembled root beer. Sarsaparilla was believed to have medicinal properties and was a popular drink among cowboys. They also had access to fresh fruit juices that provided them with essential nutrients. Drinking water was also essential, and cowboys would often carry a canteen filled with water to keep themselves hydrated throughout the day. The non-alcoholic beverages offered a much-needed respite from the typical cowboy drinks and helped them stay healthy and hydrated on their long and arduous journeys in the Wild West.
The Legacy of Cowboy Drinking Culture in Modern Times
The legacy of cowboy drinking culture in modern times is a complex phenomenon that still shapes our drinking habits today. On the one hand, the myth of the hard-drinking, hard-riding cowboy still appeals to many people, and bars and saloons continue to use cowboy motifs to attract customers. Many people still view heavy drinking as a rite of passage, and the tough, independent image of the cowboy encourages this kind of behavior.
On the other hand, however, there is growing awareness of the dangers of excessive drinking, and many people are beginning to embrace a more responsible approach to alcohol. The cowboy myth still holds a powerful sway over our cultural imagination, but it is increasingly being challenged by ideas about health, safety, and responsible behavior. As we continue to grapple with the legacy of cowboy drinking culture, it is clear that our relationship with alcohol is evolving, and that the hard-drinking image of the cowboy is no longer as glamorous or appealing as it once was.
Final Words
Cowboys were known for their love of whiskey, but they consumed a variety of alcoholic beverages in their leisure time. They drank beer, wine, brandy, and even herbal concoctions, depending on the availability of ingredients and their personal preference. Drinking was a way of relaxing, bonding with fellow cowboys, and celebrating after a long day of work. However, excessive drinking could also lead to fights, accidents, and health problems, which were common in the Wild West.
Today, the cowboy drinking culture still exists in many parts of the world, where people honor the legacy of cowboys by wearing cowboy hats and boots, listening to western music, and drinking whiskey. However, the harmful effects of alcohol abuse are also recognized, and moderation and responsibility are promoted. As we raise our glass to cowboys of the past and present, let us remember that there is more to their lives than drinking, such as hard work, bravery, and resilience, which continue to inspire us.