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Located in bustling cities or remote ghost towns like Cerro Gordo, California, saloons stood as the first establishments to rise in newly-formed locales during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These gathering spots provided much-needed sustenance to miners working tirelessly in the nearby silver, lead, and zinc mines. A typical visit to a saloon assured patrons of not only a drink but also food—often quite varied in quality and type.