Historical Potpourri: Food for thought – ‘Housekeeping in Old Virginia’

My book collection includes “Housekeeping in Old Virginia,” that gave me food for thought for this week.

Depending on what source you look for specific phrases and quotes, the information may vary. I chose to go with “…learning new information that you never thought was important to think about. It enables you to have a greater intelligence in every aspect of life while feeding your mind.”

“Housekeeping in Old Virginia,” was first published in 1879. It contains contributions of 250 noted Virginia housewives; “distinguished for their skills in the culinary arts and other domestic branches of domestic economy,” yet the book’s cover illustrates a clue that hired help was present.

Topping the praises of the book is Mrs. R. B. Hayes, wife of the president, who writes from the executive mansion in Washington. Other compliments are from wives of political men from 1879 - chief justice, secretary of state, senators, and at least one governor.

The various press agencies of that time threw in glowing contributions about the book: “Virginia is not only the mother of presidents, but is the parent of good living…..The book is edited by the granddaughter of Patrick Henry…It is destined to create a sensation among housekeepers all over the Union….”

This following information is in the bread section, “There is no reason why the poor man should not have as well prepared and palatable food as the wealthy, for, by care and pains, the finest bread may be made of the simplest materials, and surely the loving hands of the poor man’s wife and daughter will take as much pains to made his bread nice and light as hirelings will do for the wealthy.”

The book gives me a glimpse into past food preparation and recipes for all kinds of baked and cooked foods. Home remedies are in a section: The sick room, diet and remedies for the sick.

“First if all, let me say that after a reliable physician has been called in, his direction should be strictly followed, and his instructions should be the law in the sick room. Have everything in readiness for his admission immediately after his arrival, as his time is valuable and it occasions him both annoyance and loss of time to kept waiting outside of the sick room, after reaching the house of the patience.”

“The nurse has a very important part to play, as physicians say that nursing is of equal importance as medical attendance. The nurse should be careful not to wear a dress that rustles, nor shoes that creak, and if the patient has any fancy, or any aversion connected to colors, she should regard it in her dress.”

“Avoid whispering, as this excites nervousness and apprehension on the part of the sick… Do not allow the patient to read, as it is too great a tax on the sight and brain before convalescence…It is well to keep the convalescent cheered, by projecting each day some new and pleasant little plan for the morrow…”