The Surprising History Of Toilet Paper: What Cowboys Used

In the rugged and unforgiving landscapes of the Wild West, cowboys faced countless challenges and hardships. One question that has intrigued historians and Western enthusiasts alike is: what toilet paper did cowboys use? Delving into the annals of Western history, we uncover the fascinating and often surprising answers to this enigmatic question.

Natural Materials

In the absence of commercial toilet paper, cowboys relied on readily available natural materials for their hygienic needs.

Leaves and Grasses

Cowboys often used leaves from trees and shrubs, such as cottonwood, aspen, and sagebrush. The soft and pliable texture of these leaves made them a suitable substitute for toilet paper. Similarly, they collected grasses like buffalo grass and yucca, which provided a rougher but still effective cleaning option.

Corncobs and Rags

Corncobs were another common choice. Their fibrous structure allowed for easy wiping, and they were readily available in the cornfields where cowboys often traveled. In addition, cowboys sometimes carried old rags or scraps of cloth as makeshift toilet paper.

Improvised Solutions

When natural materials were scarce, cowboys resorted to creative improvisations.

Newspapers and Catalogs

As the frontier expanded westward, newspapers and mail-order catalogs became more accessible to cowboys. These printed materials, while not specifically designed for toileting, were often used as a convenient and absorbent substitute for toilet paper.

Animal Skins and Fur

In desperate situations, cowboys might use the hides or fur of animals they had hunted. While not the most comfortable option, these materials provided a rudimentary means of cleaning.

Commercial Toilet Paper

As settlements grew and commercial goods became more widely available, cowboys began to use manufactured toilet paper.

Sears and Roebuck Toilet Paper

In the late 19th century, Sears and Roebuck became one of the first companies to offer toilet paper through its mail-order catalog. This commercially produced toilet paper was more refined and hygienic than the improvised solutions cowboys had previously used.

Cowboy Toilet Paper

By the early 20th century, specialized toilet paper brands marketed specifically to cowboys emerged. These brands, such as “Cowboy Toilet Paper” and “Rough Rider Toilet Paper,” catered to the unique needs of cowboys, offering durable and absorbent rolls that could withstand the rigors of the trail.

Summary: The Evolution of Cowboy Toilet Paper

From natural materials to improvised solutions and eventually to commercial products, the evolution of toilet paper use among cowboys reflects the changing landscape of the Wild West. As the frontier became more settled and commercial goods became more accessible, cowboys adopted more refined and hygienic practices, while still maintaining the resourceful spirit that had always defined their way of life.

Top Questions Asked

Q: What was the most common type of toilet paper used by cowboys?

A: Leaves and grasses were the most widely available and commonly used natural materials for toilet paper among cowboys.

Q: Did cowboys use newspapers as toilet paper?

A: Yes, newspapers and catalogs were often used as a convenient and absorbent substitute for toilet paper, especially as settlements grew and commercial goods became more accessible.

Q: What was a unique feature of cowboy toilet paper?

A: Some brands of toilet paper marketed specifically to cowboys were designed to be durable and absorbent, able to withstand the rigors of the trail.