Fragments of Early Mississippi Foodways


Surviving evidence of nineteenth and early twentieth century Mississippi foodways is often solely found within oral traditions, as well as within preserved fragmentary pieces of paper. Recipes for more traditional consumables, such as blackberry wine, cakes, and fudge, appear on such worn scraps. Archival evidence also reveals that such food traditions were often shared through the post and many recipes were closely associated with particular individuals in a family or community, with names clearly noted.

Although not specifically related to foodways, more practical instructions, such as directions for medical cures, cleaning solvents, and paint, are also showcased, as they frequently appeared on the same pages as culinary techniques.


In the display case:

handwritten recipe

handwritten recipe

handwritten recipe

handwritten recipe

handwritten recipe

handwritten recipe