Cow towns

Cow towns are small towns historically established along cattle trails in the American West, serving as hubs for cattle ranchers, traders, and drovers. They provided necessary services such as livestock branding, loading, and transportation, and often grew rapidly during cattle drives in the late 19th century. These towns typically featured railroads, saloons, and warehouses, facilitating the movement of cattle from ranches to markets. While many cow towns declined after cattle drives ended, some evolved into commercial or tourist centers. Overall, they played a crucial role in the development of the cattle industry and westward expansion.