No cook is really good without a lively imagination and the will to use it. Sister Lisset

 {HISTORY}

Beginning with their British emigration story in the early settlement days of America, back when we were known as colonies instead of states, the Shakers set up homesteading so they could freely live life according to their religious beliefs.

With the Golden Rule (do onto others as you would have others do onto you) as their guiding principle, one that was present in how they handled every aspect of their life, over time they built up Shaker communities around the Northeast and the MIdwest and unknowingly helped shape the agriculture, food, furniture and architectural landscapes of early America. 

This fascinating cookbook shares their history not only in recipes but also in stories detailing the unique lifestyle and peace-loving mindset of the Shaker community.  Written by Caroline Piercy (1886-1955) who grew up surrounded with intimate knowledge of the Shakers in Ohio, it wasn't until she was asked to write a cooking booklet for the Shaker Historical Society of Shaker Heights, OH that she realized just what an impact they had on the food culture of colonial America. What resulted was a deep dive into all aspects of Shaker life and living, which produced this cookbook in 1953.

A harmonious approach to life, peaceful pursuits, and a respect for the land and the animals that they tended led to joyful dedication in the kitchen when it came to the art of feeding their communities. They cooked what grew in the garden, or came from the animals they raised. Seasonality was the foundation for all recipes and simple fare of the freshest kind was always on the menu.  

This is the 1975 edition of Caroline's original 1953 debut, proof that the Shaker way of cooking was a popular source of inspiration throughout the last half of the 20th century. Interesting recipes include  Shaker Molasses Taffy, Sister Luella's Tomato Fritters, Herb Salad Dressing, Sister Abigail's Strawberry Flummery, Rosewater Ice Cream, Rose Haw Preserves, Pickled Grapes, Shaker Cranberry Pie, Lentil Loaf, Sister Content's Hash, Homemade Shaker Noodles, Shaker Indian Pudding, Cream Biscuits, Sister Jennie's Potato Bread, Sister Lisset's Graham Gems, Shaker Haying Water, Shaker Mint Cup and so many more. 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- 1975 edition, 12th Printing by Crown Publishers

- Contains 283 pages

- Illustrated throughout with drawings by Virginia Filson Walsh

- Contains original dust jacket

{CONDITION}

In beautiful vintage condition. No spots, stains or marks of any kind. In impeccable condition both inside and out (very fitting for the Shaker way of life!). Spine is tight. All pages are intact and dustjacket is bright and free of any rips or tears. 

{SIZE}

Measures 8.25" inches (length) x 5.5" inches (width) x 1" inch (thickness) and weighs 14 oz.