What was a cowhand's job?

[seto_is_my_binkyboy]

Specifically in the time period between early 1900s and late 1800s..... In the U.S.

I know they have to take the cattle to a railroad town, but what else?

 

[fcbsoccer23]

they are pretty much cowboys.

 

[Big Daddy G]

A cowboy or cowgirl: They were hired to take care of cattle or perform other tasks on horseback. Herd them, take them to fields to feed, keep them safe. For more information, see John Wayne.

 

[robe]

Cowboys on open range control the herd so they don't stampede, defend against predators and rustlers, and move the cattle along at a rate of speed that keeps them together, but doesn't burn any more calories than necessary getting them to market (more they weigh, the more they're worth).

In open range, they have a round-up to brand the calves with the ranch's symbol to show ownership. When cows are calving, they make sure everything is safe for the mother, and help with the birth if the calf is facing the wrong way.

From time to time they "cut" or separate the cattle, whether for market weight calves, feeder calves, "shadow" calves, or for maintenance (cyclic shots, branding, neutering, etc.)

 

[kandimomma2007]

They generally did anything the farmer needed them to do. Work that was basic pretty much. But it was work that had to get done. It's also called a ranchhand. My grandfather was one.