I think they were tougher in many regards too. Do keep in mind that, for example, Washington, D.C. used to empty in the Summer. The fact that AC was invented is claimed to be a factor (not some total cause or reason) for expanded government.
Ergo, they took seasonal siestas to deal with some of the heat.
Is it New Mexico where the legislative session is a tightly organized 2-3 weeks? I bet that originated partially due to heat and discomfort. Also, the lower overall population must result in lesser need for legislation. Also, with a century of communication improvements, people can align etc. and show up to vote rather than gather to hammer out details.
Complaining about something like heat then would be like complaining about gravity today.
Also, not everyone was of "better character". I firmly believe forced proximity (no cars or other escapes) quashed lots of bad behavior.
Personal: When my grandma sat in front of her living room window air conditioner (the only one in her house) she said, "How'd we ever get along without AC?" My dad answered, "When it was Summer, you were supposed to be hot." His short answers were the best.