What did squatters eat in the 1840?

In 1840, squatters often lived on the land with few resources, so their diets generally consisted of simple available food.

Here are some common food items in the diets of squatters in 1840:

1. Corn: Cornmeal was widely available ad affordable due to its resilience in varying climates. Squatters would make recipes like cornbread and hominy from corn.

2. Potatoes: Potatoes were another staple in squatters' diet. They could be easily cultivated and stored for longer periods. Squatters would boil, roast, or mash potatoes.

3. Grains: Oats, barley, and wheat were also grown and used for meals like porridge or bread.

4. Wild Game: Squatters often relied on hunting for meat. They would set traps and hunted animals like deer, rabbit, and squirrel. Venison (deer meat) was a prominent source of protein.

5. Fish: Fishing in nearby rivers or lakes provided another reliable source of food. Fish like trout, bass, and catfish were caught and used fresh or preserved through drying or smoking.

6. Vegetables: Depending on the region and climate, squatters would grow their own vegetables like beans, pumpkins, onions, and squash.

7. Fruits: Wild berries, apples, and other fruits were foraged and eaten when available.

8. Preserved Foods: Squatters preserved food through drying, smoking, salting, and pickling to make the best use of their resources.

It is important to note that the diets of squatters could vary significantly based on their location and access to different resources.