Paula Lester and the
Matthews Historical Cookbook Committee have been working on a new
book, Made in Matthews, to be published by the Matthews
Historical Foundation. All proceeds from this book will further the
historical efforts in Matthews.
The Cookbook Committee has
collected the recipes and remembrances found in this edition from
families and descendents of early Matthews citizens. This unique book
features not only recipes but also remembrances of the original cook.
Many are focused on simple traditional old family favorites. However,
this was an era when church socials, school suppers, and family
gatherings filled the family calendar. Cooking consumed a major part
of the day and women, even a couple of men, took particular pride in
their culinary accomplishments. There were few boxed, frozen, or
prepared foods. Prizes and ribbons were given at the local fairs and
bazaars for the "best" jams, jellies and preserves, yeast breads and
rolls, cakes and pies. The kitchen was truly the heart of the home.
Other recipes included are
some interesting local recipes that we found when doing the research
for this book. Made in Matthews is mainly a trip down memory
lane, to share with the reader, a little flavor from a Small Southern
Town.
