The story behind “whiskey ditch” as slang for a saloon – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term whiskey ditch serves as a fascinating piece of American slang that refers specifically to saloons or drinking establishments. It evokes the rugged, rough-and-tumble lifestyle of the…

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What does “open range brand” mean in unclaimed grazing lands? – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term open range brand refers to a system of cattle branding used primarily in regions where livestock graze freely on unclaimed public lands. An open range brand…

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The use of “rope hitch point” in securing temporary corrals – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term rope hitch point refers to a specific technique used in securing temporary corrals, particularly in ranching and livestock management. At its core, a rope hitch point…

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The significance of “riverboat” in Old West trade and travel – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term riverboat refers to a type of boat designed specifically for navigation on rivers. These vessels are traditionally characterized by their flat bottoms, shallow drafts, and the…

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What does “cow campfire” symbolize in cowboy culture? – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term cow campfire refers to the ritualistic gathering around a fire, often associated with cowboys and ranchers in the American West. It symbolizes camaraderie, storytelling, and the…

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What does “mud wagon” mean in stagecoach terminology? – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term mud wagon refers to a specific type of stagecoach that was commonly used in the 19th century. Typically, these vehicles were characterized by their heavy construction,…

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The origins and use of “double rigged saddle” for stability in rough riding – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term double rigged saddle refers to a specific type of saddle design that utilizes two distinct rigging points, which provide increased stability for the rider, especially while…

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The significance of “campfire ash trail marker” in cowboy navigation – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term campfire ash trail marker refers to a navigational technique utilized primarily by cowboys in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This method involves the strategic…

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The use of “rope corral” in makeshift herd containment – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term rope corral refers to a temporary enclosure made from ropes, often used in agricultural settings to contain livestock. The word corral itself originates from the Spanish…

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Exploring the term “dust-choked herd” in the hardships of open drives – Western Heritage Dictionary

Definition and OriginThe term dust-choked herd refers to livestock that are struggling to breathe due to dust-laden environments, particularly during open drives, which involve herding cattle across vast, often arid…

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