About this book
Lydia Maria Gurney's *Things Mother Used to Make* preserves a century of cherished family recipes that shaped American home cooking, now available in this timeless culinary collection. Originally published in 1914, this cookbook gathers old-fashioned recipes passed down through generations of New England families—many appearing in print for the first time. Gurney, who personally tested these dishes in her own kitchen, presents straightforward instructions designed for inexperienced cooks and young homemakers seeking reliable guidance. From Boston brown bread and bannocks to classic household preparations, each recipe emphasizes simplicity, economy, and guaranteed success when followed closely. The author's plainspoken approach acknowledges that good food depends as much on a cook's judgment as on quality ingredients, making this an invaluable resource for those learning the fundamentals of home cooking. These pages capture authentic nineteenth and early twentieth-century American domestic life, offering listeners insight into how families nourished themselves before modern convenience. Ideal for food history enthusiasts, genealogy researchers, heritage cooking hobbyists, and anyone curious about traditional recipes and household practices, this audiobook connects us to our culinary past while proving that timeless cooking wisdom never goes out of style.