Lethal Lodgings
Cramped Quarters
Living conditions in the Wild West were often cramped and overcrowded. Families of ten or more might share a single-room cabin, with everyone sleeping in close proximity. This lack of space and privacy not only spread germs but also made it difficult to maintain any semblance of cleanliness. Personal hygiene took a backseat to sheer survival.
Dirt Floors and Leaky Roofs
Many homes had dirt floors and poorly constructed roofs that leaked during rainstorms. This led to damp, muddy conditions inside the house, which were perfect breeding grounds for bacteria and mold. Living in such squalor took a toll on people’s health, contributing to respiratory illnesses and infections.
