5. Cooling the Frontier: Ice in Saloons and Hotels
In boomtowns like Tombstone and Dodge City, saloons and hotels gained fame for their ability to serve chilled drinks and keep food fresh. Ice was more than a luxury—it was a clear sign of modernity amid the rough-and-tumble West. The refreshing clink of ice in a glass became a symbol of status and sophistication, attracting thirsty patrons and elevating establishments above the competition. Further reading at True West Magazine.



