Page 85 - All About History - Issue 54-17

Last Orders at the Bar

MIRROR BAR
A good bar included
shelves heaving with a
wide drink selection and
glassware. Most also
had a mirror so clients
facing the bar could see
who came in the door.
Fancy Brunswick bars
signified class.

SOMEWHERE TO STAND
Early taverns did not provide KEEPING WARM
chairs or stools at the bar. Standing Saloons were often
customers could, however, rest drafty, so wood-burning
their foot on a brass rail that ran stoves were installed.
underneath and the length of the bar.

SPITTOON
Many men chewed tobacco.
Spittoons, also known as
‘goboons’, were arranged 1.5
metres apart under the bar so
that customers could spit out
their gobs of chewing tobacco.

CARD GAMES
Card games were very popular in
saloons, with faro and craps chief
among them. Cheating was rife and
betting was exceedingly popular.

SOMEWHERE TO SIT
Tables and chairs were arranged
around the saloon where men could
chat at their leisure, dine or play
card games. Some tables doubled
as poker tables with felt tops. They
also made good shields in a fight!

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