Western saloon facts for kids
A Western saloon was a special kind of bar that was very popular in the American Old West. These places were important gathering spots in towns during the 1800s.
The very first saloon opened in Brown's Hole, Wyoming, in 1822. It was a place for fur trappers to relax and socialize. Over time, saloons became common in many towns across the American frontier.
What Happened in a Saloon?
Saloons offered many ways for people to have fun. Visitors could play different card games like poker and faro. They also enjoyed dice games and billiards. Some saloons even had darts and bowling.
To make things more lively, many saloons featured entertainment. You might hear a piano player making music, or see "can-can" girls performing dances. Sometimes, there were even short plays or skits. A famous person named Wyatt Earp owned and worked in several saloons during his life.
Images for kids
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The Alpine Inn, formerly Rossotti's Saloon, in Portola Valley, California. Built in 1850.
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The Pozo Saloon (right) in Pozo, California. Built in 1858.
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The Summer Saloon in Fairplay, Colorado. Built in 1879.
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The Crystal Palace, formerly the Golden Eagle Brewery, in Tombstone, Arizona. Built in 1879.
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The White Elephant Saloon in Fort Worth, Texas. Built in 1884.
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The Bar Room in 1885 Charleston, Arizona.
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The Curry Saloon in Lincoln, New Mexico. Built in 1887.
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The Salty Dawg Saloon in Homer, Alaska. Built in 1897.
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Interior of the Toll Gate Saloon in 1897 Black Hawk, Colorado.
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The Red Onion Saloon in Skagway, Alaska. Built in 1898.
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The Arcade Saloon in 1898 Eldora, Colorado.
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Jack's Bar, formerly the Bank Saloon, in Carson City, Nevada. Built in 1899.
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The Discovery Saloon in Nome, Alaska. Built in 1901.
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The Blue Ribbon Bar & Grill, formerly the Estancia Saloon, in Estancia, New Mexico. Built in 1903.
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The Klondyke Dance Hall & Saloon in 1909 Seattle, Washington.
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Saloon at Ehrenberg, Arizona in 1911.
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The Pioneer Saloon in Goodsprings, Nevada. Built in 1913.
See also
In Spanish: Saloon para niños