The Compleat American Housewife 1776

In the mid to late 70's publishers like Nitty Gritty Productions started producing quirky offbeat cookbooks that housed some of the most amazing facts and information. In this book, The Compleat American Housewife-1776, Julianne Belote (author) writes an incredible condensed account of historical cooking in the American Colonies from a housewife's point of view. This is a wonderful little gem that is filled with period quotations, remedies, and authentic recipes. Topics include (not limited to) Accounts of a Colonial Life, Directions in Various Branches of Cookery, Menus and Etiquette, Observations on Housewifery, Perfumery and Advancing Beauty, and Medical Cures and Restoratives. In addition to all of this, the pen and ink drawings are worth the price alone. Recipe Excerpt from the book: FISH HOUSE PUNCH "they have a Drink there called Fish House Punch. It is most Exslent if taken in Moderation, but it is so Smooth that One who does not know its Powers is likely to take too much. I suppose I must have Drunk too much of it, but it did not Seem so at the Time. Next Morning was a Different Story." 1) Dissolve a pound of sugar in the smallest possible amount of cold water. 2) Stir in a quart of lemon juice. 3) Then add 2 quarts of rum, 1 quart of cognac, and 1/2 cup of peach brandy. 4) Allow this to mellow for several hours, giving it a stir now and then.