As trail drivers headed back from delivering Texas Longhorn herds, their minds weren’t on holiday feasts or festive cheer—they were fixed on finishing the drive and racing home ahead of winter weather. A sudden storm could strand both men and cattle in miserable conditions, with prospects looking grim. For many, the real holiday didn’t begin until boots were back on home soil, even if that meant arriving well after Thanksgiving or Christmas had passed.
Food on the trail was simple as usual, with no extra trimmings or treats for the holidays. An exception might be some occasional fruit jam or honey to dress up the staple of biscuits. Coffee, beans, beef stew and similar staples also remained on the menu. As trail drivers headed home, speed was essential as they may have been carrying large sums of money from the sale of their cattle. Consequently, usually utilitarian meals were reduced to a minimum to limit time for preparation.
Join us as we learn about these traditions, echoed in the old cowboy refrain “when the work’s done in the fall.” Waiting to celebrate after the job was finished shaped the holiday customs of ranching families for generations, reminding us that the truest celebrations come after hard work is through.
Presenter: A native of Aspermont, Texas, Dr. Will Cradduck has managed the Official State of Texas Longhorn Herd since 2009, and has worked hard to maintain and keep it historically correct. Dr. Cradduck earned a BS in Animal Science, a MS in Animal Nutrition, and a PhD in Agronomy from Texas Tech University. He currently serves on the boards of the Cattlemen’s Texas Longhorn Registry and the Texas Forts Trail.