Did Cowboys Really Drink Coffee?

The common belief is that cowboys on the trail primarily consumed water. But the truth is, coffee held a significant place in their daily lives. This often-forgotten part of the western folklore reveals that coffee was not only enjoyed but was an essential part of their routine, much like their British counterparts, who drank tea in large quantities. However, the main reason for this wasn't the caffeine stimulant, but the boiling process that killed microorganisms in the water.

Customs and Culture

During the 19th century, coffee and tea became more than just a drink; they became part of the customs and social practices of the time. While many cowboys might not have fully understood the health benefits of these drinks, they adhered to the established traditions, knowing that the hot water significantly reduced the risk of waterborne sicknesses.

Preparing Coffee "Cowboy Style"

The methods of preparing coffee had numerous unique aspects. One such technique involved reusing the coffee grounds, which not only conserved resources but also reduced waste. Adding eggshells to the mix was believed to reduce bitterness, and a few drops of cold water before pouring were thought to help settle the grounds back to the bottom.

Chuck Wagons and Fresh Parched Coffee

When traveling with a chuck wagon, cowboys often had access to freshly "parched" coffee. Parched coffee, or peaberry, is a unique form of coffee that is roasted whole, making it less likely to need grinding. Canning cream or "Dime Brand" was often used to cover any shortcomings in the beans' quality.

The Mystery of Coffee Grinding

Despite the methods used to prepare coffee, the actual grinding process remains a mystery. Since peaberry often didn't require grinding due to its whole bean preparation, it's easy to see why the question of how the coffee was ground up remains unanswered. The practicality of using what was available on hand, combined with the labor of grinding, might explain the lack of knowledge on this aspect.

Quality of Coffee

The coffee consumed by cowboys during this period wasn't the high-quality blend we enjoy today. Pre-roasted coffee was not available, and they had to roast their coffee beans in a pan. The result was often a mix of over-roasted and under-roasted beans, ground clumsily with whatever tools were available. Grounds were reused, and new batches were added as stores were miles away.

Conclusion

The cowboy's coffee-drinking habits reflect the broader cultural and practical aspects of the era. Despite the lack of scientific knowledge, their practices were driven by necessity and habit, keeping them healthy and hydrated during their long journeys.