For cowboys on the open range, chuckwagons like this one were the closest they got to home for weeks at a time. They gathered here for food, companionship, and sleep. The cook served up coffee, beans, rice, sourdough breads and occasional desserts. He also acted as referee, barber, doctor, and repairman. His wagon carried enough food and water for 10 to 15 cowboys to live on the trail for a month.