Among the many recent donations to the Morrison County Historical Society are several locally-compiled cookbooks. If, like me, you enjoy reading these delightful documents, you already know that they sometimes include non-food items such as helpful hints and tips or fun recipes for things other than food. Below are excerpts from two of the cookbooks we recently received from Clifford G. Johnson of Cold Spring, Minnesota.
Household Hints:
- Kerosene is a good cleaning agent to use on wash bowls.
- Buttermilk removes ink stains very effectively.
- Alcohol removes paint spots from furniture, but care must be taken not to destroy the finish underneath.
- A strongly brewed, cooled tea is one of the best home first aid treatments for a serious burn.
(“Tested Recipes”, compiled by Cheskchamay Camp Fire Girls of Upsala, Minnesota; 1936.)
PRESERVED CHILDREN
Take 1 large field, half dozen children, 2 or 3 small dogs, a pinch of brook and some pebbles. Mix the children and dogs well together; …put them on a field, stirring constantly. Pour the brook over the pebbles…sprinkle the field with flowers…spread over all a deep blue sky and bake in the sun. When brown, set away to cool in the bath tub.
(“Golden Jubilee Cook Book”, compiled by the Ladies of St. Joseph’s Parish – St. Joseph’s Church of Morrill, Minnesota; 1968)