What were some popular drinks in the Old West saloons?

What were some popular drinks in the Old West saloons?

Paul Etzler
Eureka, Nevada

Author and Frontier Fare columnist Sherry Monahan says, “While it’s true that wine, beer and whiskey were largely consumed in most Western saloons, many also offered fancy mixed drinks. They were quite popular in the wealthier communities, like San Francisco, Denver and Dodge City, where bars served drinks such as Gin Sling, Mint Julep and Whiskey Punch.”

Depending on the location and year, a shot of whiskey usually cost around a quarter. Beer was around 10 cents a glass. The mixed drinks went up from that price.

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Marshall Trimble is Arizona’s official historian. His latest book is Wyatt Earp: Showdown at Tombstone.
If you have a question, write: Ask the Marshall, P.O. Box 8008, Cave Creek, AZ 85327 or e-mail him at marshall.trimble@scottsdalecc.edu.