It’s the time of year when cookbooks come out to remind us how to make those special holiday treats or meals if we haven’t committed the recipes to memory. Food traditions are often close to the hearts of families. Cookbooks and recipe boxes are cherished and handed down from generation to generation. I have a copy of my grandmother’s receipt (yes, they used to call them receipts) for molasses cookies that not only makes my mouth water but also brings back a vivid memory of a large, clear glass cookie jar full of cookies with big, sticky raisins in the middle. A very unique cookbook is available at the Museums. Originally published in 2002 for a fundraiser and reprinted in 2015, it contains recipes from Museum members and volunteers and from descendants of some of Hernando County’s pioneer families. Interspersed throughout the book are recipes from 1852. Each section starts with Helpful Hints such as: “A lump of sugar added to water when cooking greens helps the vegetables retain their fresh color.” ‘Aunt Elsie’s Sweet Potato Pone’ was submitted by Marcel Mountain, Pioneer descendant. A more modern recipe for ‘Sock It To Me Cake’ was submitted by Joseph Weeks of Weeks Hardware fame. The 1852 version of pumpkin pie does not start with opening a can of pumpkin. In 1852, the cook had to “Take out seeds and stew the pumpkin dry”! The Museum Cookbook is a must-have for Hernando County cooks and makes a meaningful stocking stuffer. $5.00 in Museum gift shops.
The Museums are open — Reservations are recommended.
- The May-Stringer – Tours Thursday, Friday & Saturday – 352-799-0129
- The 1885 Depot – Tours Wednesday, Friday & Saturday – 352-799-4766
- The Countryman One Room Schoolhouse – By appointment – 352-515-3054
