Have You Heard About The Cracker Cowboys?
Florida Cracker Cowboys refer to the cattle herders and cowmen of Florida, starting as early as the 16th century on the interiors of Florida. The first cattle in Florida were brought by the Spanish in 1521.The sound of a cracking whip is how the Cracker Cowboys got their name. The Cracker Cowboys developed a unique culture and heritage throughout Florida that can still be felt in the state today.The crackers established signature styles when it came to architecture, foods, and music. Many of the Cracker Cowboys used what would become known as the Florida Cracker Trail that was established by 1850. The trail was 120 miles heading towards the east and west from Fort Pierce to Bradenton.It was used to transport and sale of cattle.Many say that the trail could be very dangerous due to the heat and humidity from the rain changing patterns and hostile tribes and also animals such as bears and panthers. The Cowboys traveled with a pack of dogs for protection while on the dangerous trail. The P.P Cobbs General store that was established in 1882 was popular for stopping point along their route. It was located in Fort Pierce and ran as a trading center and eatery.The Cowboys supplied all of the Confederate troops with meat during the American Civil War. The Confederate troops depended on the meat as they were blockaded by the Union troops along the Coasts. Sometimes the cowboys sold cattle to the Union forces when they ran into each other. Cattle rustling was very common throughout the Cracker history. Rustlers worked to gather loose cattle from the open grazing lands that also meant stealing herds from other groups of Cracker Cowboys. The rustling of cattle was prominent due to open grazing lands within Florida. Teams of cowboys worked together to capture herds and often steal from one another.
Smith, Patrick. A Land Remembered.Pineapple Press.1984
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