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What types of drinks do cowboys typically enjoy at the Equity Bar in Old West towns?
Contrary to popular belief, cowboys did not solely drink whiskey at saloons.
They actually had a diverse range of alcoholic beverages to choose from, including locally brewed beers, wines, and even specialty cocktails.
One popular drink among cowboys at the Equity Bar was the "Gin Sling" - a cocktail made with gin, sugar, water, and lemon or lime.
This refreshing concoction helped quench their thirst after long days on the trail.
Another common choice was "Cactus Wine" - a potent, homemade wine that cowboys would sometimes brew using prickly pear cactus fruit.
This regional specialty provided a unique, Southwest-inspired flavor profile.
Surprisingly, some cowboys also enjoyed drinking "Forty-Rod" - a particularly strong and harsh whiskey that was said to be capable of "knocking a man down at forty paces."
While not as common, the Equity Bar likely offered a selection of imported beers, such as ales and lagers, which were favored by some wealthier patrons passing through town.
Local ranchers and cowboys would sometimes band together to produce their own small-batch whiskeys, known as "rotgut," which were often consumed at the Equity Bar.
In addition to alcoholic drinks, the Equity Bar may have also offered non-alcoholic options, such as fresh-squeezed fruit juices or carbonated "soda waters," which provided a refreshing alternative.
The bartenders at the Equity Bar were skilled in mixing a variety of classic cocktails, including the "Tom Collins" (gin, lemon, sugar, and soda water) and the "Old Fashioned" (whiskey, bitters, sugar, and water).
Some cowboys may have opted for a "Highball" - a simple mix of whiskey and carbonated mixer, such as ginger ale or soda water - which offered a lighter, more effervescent drinking experience.
Interestingly, the Equity Bar likely catered to a diverse clientele, including not only cowboys but also local business owners, ranchers, and even the occasional traveling salesman or prospector, each with their own preferred libations.
The selection of drinks at the Equity Bar may have evolved over time, with the introduction of new regional spirits or the popularization of certain cocktail trends within the Old West saloon scene.
While the Equity Bar was known for its lively atmosphere and camaraderie among cowboys, the establishment likely maintained a certain level of decorum, with bartenders ensuring that patrons did not become overly intoxicated or disruptive.
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