The Copperheads, (now known as the Democrats) of Washoe Valley planned a barbecue in September 1864 for General George B. ‘Little Mac’ McClellan. He was their candidate to defeat the bid for reelection by Abe Lincoln.
There would be a general feast and then political speeches for the soon-to-be Nevada voters. It was to be a grand political rally.
Local farmers would supply cattle, hogs, and sheep. Saloonkeepers offered kegs of beer and barrels of lemonade. Subscription money would pay for cakes, pies, and stuffing for the roasts.
When the great day came, a cannon was fired at dawn. A dozen men started the roasting pits.
Tables were set up and evergreen boughs were arranged for shade. There was only one problem, not many people showed up.
There was food for thousands and not two hundred people to feed. After awhile, the party leaders sent word to local Republicans that they were invited to come and partake. Even then, there were several baskets of leftovers for the needy.
Washoe County voted Republican that year.
The Old Blog in the Desert 
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