Did Cowboys Drink Beer? The Truth About Beer In The Wild West

When we think of cowboys in the Old West, images of rugged men on horseback and dusty saloons often come to mind. But did cowboys drink beer? This question has intrigued historians and Old West enthusiasts alike. In this article, we'll explore the role of beer in cowboy culture and examine the broader context of alcohol consumption on the American frontier.

The drinking habits of cowboys in the 19th century were shaped by various factors, including availability, quality, and cultural preferences. While whiskey is often associated with the Wild West, beer also played a significant role in the social and economic life of frontier towns. From local breweries to imported lagers, the story of beer in the Old West is as rich and complex as the era itself.

Join us as we delve into the history of beer consumption among cowboys, the challenges of brewing on the frontier, and how beer culture evolved throughout the 19th century. We'll separate fact from fiction and provide a comprehensive look at what cowboys really drank in the Old West.

History of Beer Consumption Among Cowboys

Historical evidence confirms that cowboys did indeed consume beer, although it was not initially as popular as whiskey. Beer consumption in Western saloons increased significantly after the Civil War. By the 1880s, beer had become a standard offering alongside whiskey and other spirits in many establishments.

Availability and Quality of Beer

The availability and quality of beer in the Old West varied depending on location and time period:

• In remote areas, home-brewed beer without hops was common, often of lower quality.

• As professional brewing became more widespread, the quality improved.

• German immigrants introduced better brewing techniques, ingredients, and beer styles.

• By 1853, significant quantities of beer were being imported to the Western frontier.

Beer Pricing and Serving Practices

In 1870, a glass of beer typically cost about 10 cents, equivalent to approximately $1.77 in today's currency. Beer was usually served at room temperature (55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit), as refrigeration was not widely available until later in the 19th century.

Types of Beer in the Old West

Lagers and ales were the most common types of beer available. As German immigrants brought their brewing expertise to America, lager became increasingly popular. Local breweries were common due to beer's short shelf life and high transportation costs, often producing unique regional varieties.

Other Popular Beverages

While beer was consumed, it wasn't the only drink of choice for cowboys. Other popular beverages included:

• Whiskey: Often preferred due to its availability and long shelf life

• Sarsaparilla: A non-alcoholic beverage made from sassafras root

• Coffee: A staple for cowboys on long cattle drives

The Role of Saloons

Saloons played a significant role in the social life of cowboys and frontier towns. These establishments served as community hubs where cowboys could relax, socialize, gamble, and sometimes find lodging.

Brewing Challenges in the Old West

Beer brewing in the Old West faced several challenges:

• Limited refrigeration made it difficult to keep beer fresh

• Transportation over long distances was problematic

• Many towns relied on local breweries to meet demand

Cooling Methods for Beer

Before widespread refrigeration, saloons used various methods to keep beer cool:

• Underground cellars and basements

• Ice harvesting and storage

• Use of cool mountain streams

• Evaporative cooling techniques

Notable Breweries of the Era

While there weren't many large, nationally-known breweries in the Old West during the frontier era, some notable ones included:

• Anheuser-Busch (founded 1852 in St. Louis, Missouri)

• Coors Brewing Company (founded 1873 in Golden, Colorado)

• Olympia Brewing Company (founded 1896 in Tumwater, Washington Territory)

• Lone Star Brewery (founded 1884 in San Antonio, Texas)

Impact of German Brewers

The introduction of German brewers had a significant positive impact on beer quality in the American West, including:

• Improved brewing techniques

• Introduction of lager beer styles

• Use of better ingredients

• Advancements in refrigeration and storage methods

• Professionalization of the brewing industry

Beer vs. Whiskey Preference

While both beer and whiskey were popular, historical evidence suggests that cowboys generally preferred whiskey. However, beer's popularity increased over time, especially as its quality improved towards the end of the 19th century.

Modern Cowboys and Beer Preferences

While historical cowboys had limited beer options, today's cowboys and those embracing the Western lifestyle have a wider variety of choices. Popular beer brands among modern cowboys often include:

1. Coors and Coors Light: Originating in Colorado, these brands maintain strong associations with the Rocky Mountain region.

2. Budweiser and Bud Light: While not specifically Western, these mainstream beers are popular in rural areas and at rodeos.

3. Miller Lite: Another widely consumed beer at Western events and gatherings.

4. Pabst Blue Ribbon (PBR): Known for its working-class image, PBR has gained popularity in rural and Western communities.

5. Lone Star Beer: Marketed as the "National Beer of Texas," it's particularly popular in the Lone Star State.

6. Shiner Bock: Another Texas favorite, brewed by the Spoetzl Brewery in Shiner, Texas.

7. Rainier Beer: A popular choice in the Pacific Northwest, often featuring outdoor imagery in its marketing.

8. Busch and Busch Light: Frequently marketed with rural and outdoor themes, appealing to the Western demographic.

9. Michelob Ultra: Popular among health-conscious consumers, including those in Western states.

10. Regional craft beers: Many cowboys support local breweries, particularly those that embrace Western themes or use local ingredients.

It's important to note that beer preferences can vary widely based on individual taste, regional availability, and personal background. Additionally, many modern cowboys may choose not to drink alcohol at all. The list above represents general trends rather than universal preferences.

The evolution of beer choices from the Old West to the present day reflects broader changes in American beer culture, including the rise of light lagers, the craft beer movement, and the continued importance of regional identity in beer marketing and consumption.

Evolution of Beer Packaging and Distribution

The packaging and distribution of beer in the Old West underwent significant changes during the 19th century:

• Prior to 1873, beer was primarily stored and transported in kegs or barrels.

• Widespread bottling of beer began in 1873, coinciding with the introduction of pasteurization techniques.

• The advent of bottled beer greatly improved transportability and shelf life, allowing for wider distribution.

Beer Names and Terminology

While the term "beer" was commonly used, various colloquial names for beer emerged in the Old West, reflecting the colorful language of the era. Some examples include:

• John Barleycorn

• Hop juice

• Calobogus

• Wobbly pop

• Laughing water

These terms varied by region and often reflected the beer's characteristics or effects.

Economic Impact of Breweries

Breweries played a significant role in the economic development of Western towns:

• They provided employment opportunities for locals.

• Breweries often stimulated related industries such as agriculture (for grain and hops) and transportation.

• Some breweries, like Anheuser-Busch, grew to become major national brands, contributing to the broader economy.

Beer Quality and Safety

The quality and safety of beer in the Old West varied considerably:

• In some areas, beer was considered a safer alternative to potentially contaminated water.

• The introduction of pasteurization in the 1870s significantly improved beer safety and shelf life.

• The Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906 later established standards for beer production, though this was after the traditional Old West era.

Cultural Significance of Beer

Beer consumption in the Old West had cultural implications beyond mere refreshment:

• It served as a social lubricant in frontier communities.

• Beer gardens, introduced by German immigrants, became popular social spaces in some Western towns.

• The rise of beer consumption contributed to the temperance movement, which gained traction in the late 19th century.

Technological Advancements in Brewing

The latter half of the 19th century saw significant technological advancements in brewing:

• The introduction of artificial refrigeration in the 1870s revolutionized beer production and storage.

• Steam-powered machinery improved efficiency in larger breweries.

• Advances in chemistry led to more consistent beer quality and the development of new styles.

Beer in Popular Culture

The image of cowboys drinking in saloons has become an enduring part of Old West mythology:

• While often exaggerated in fiction and film, these depictions do reflect the real presence of beer in cowboy culture.

• The association of beer with the Old West has been used in marketing campaigns by breweries well into the modern era.

Conclusion

In conclusion, beer played a complex and evolving role in the Old West. From its initial position as a secondary option to whiskey, beer grew in popularity and quality throughout the 19th century.

The story of beer in the Old West reflects broader themes of the era, including technological advancement, cultural exchange, and economic development. Understanding the place of beer in cowboy culture provides valuable insights into the social and economic fabric of the American frontier.

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.