Many people don't know what old Florida was like so I want to show you all that's historic, beautiful, retro, kitschy and untamed. Much of it has changed now, but you can still be a part of the adventure if you look in the right places. I love writing about Florida and submissions are always welcomed.
Enjoy your stay in the F.L.A.
Spanish Florida Food History: Cattle Dog
“A true working dog, the Florida/Cracker Cur dog is not bred for looks, but it’s working ability. They work side by side with their cow boys. Many cowboys state, “A well trained cow dog is worth the work of several cowmen.” The first stock dogs were brought to Florida by Hernando De Soto in 1539. These dogs were used to round up cattle. When a cow escaped, it was the dogs job to round the cattle back up and move it back with the rest of the heard. Some dogs would hold a cow by the nose, ear or leg until the cow was roped and branded, these were called “Catch Dogs”. When the dogs were not out working with their cowboys, they were used as watch and guard dogs for the family at home. They played a big part in the lives of ranchers.” (source)
An 1895 drawing of by Frederick Remington of a Florida Cracker.
“Cracker curs (see lower photo) have become very rare, with the loss of land, and cattle industry, the need for a cow dog has declined. I have one myself from a 70 year old cowboy. His female, the mom, is one of his best dogs in all his years, so I am submitting this pic of them they are red and a yeller dog. Yellow to me, but that’s what they say, a yeller dog … the dogs range from 30 females 40 males.”
