Gourmet Truck Expo | South Florida
A “chuck wagon” was developed out of necessity for those long cattle drives.
In 1866, Charles Goodnight, a cattle herder purchased an Army States Army wagon and installed shelving and drawers.
It was stocked with utensils, pots and pans, medical supplies, as well as foods that preserved well.
Cornmeal, dried beans and coffee were three staples.
Perhaps surprisingly, no fresh meat was eaten unless an animal was injured and had to be “put down.”
Beef and pork that was eaten was preserved by drying it, Water barrels and a sling used to create kindling completed the supplies.
By 1890, these food trucks found their way into the big cities and fed night time workers.
Often, they were popular they were able to remain stationary!