How did people use gut cherries?

Gut cherries, also known as sour cherries, were traditionally used in various culinary applications due to their tart flavor. They were commonly made into preserves, jams, or jellies, and used in desserts such as pies and cobblers. Additionally, gut cherries were sometimes fermented to produce beverages like cherry wine or used in cooking to add a tangy flavor to savory dishes. Their nutritional benefits, including high levels of antioxidants, also made them a valued fruit in traditional diets.