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Mrs. Mary Hooker Cornelius
Through the 18th & 19th century the majority of domestic labor fell on the shoulders of women. Although progressives at the time wanted to escape this pressure to stake their life's purpose on having children and tending to their home, some wanted to excel in the art of being a housewife.
Mary Hooker Cornelius (1796-1880) reflected the latter, writing a popular book called The Young Housekeeper's Friend. This guide features various recipes and remedies for a tidy and clean house. In it, she remarks that in order to be a good housewife in 1846, one must simply have: “Energy, industry, economy, order, skills, vigilance, cheerfulness, kindness, charity, discretion, and fear of God (10).” There were some interesting remedies in this book, including a tooth wash that includes myrrh, bark and sugar.
Faith was always central in Mrs. Cornelius’s life. Her father was a minister and descendant of Thomas Hooker, who founded the Connecticut colony. Her husband, Elias Cornelius was a missionary and minister who dedicated his life to converting Indigenous people to Christianity. When he died, Mrs. Cornelius wrote another hit: The Country Cookbook.
All of the women covered on this tour had an abundance of talent and the perseverance to publish against all odds in a male dominated field. It is important to keep in mind that most of these women were born to white middle to upper class families with connections that allowed them to receive an education. It was talent and access to opportunity that allowed for their success. The next author reflects both. A woman of immense talent who received a world class education thanks to the advocacy of her family.
Preserving the pastEducating for the future
Connecting with our community
Preserving the past
Educating for the future
Connecting with our community
Andover Center for History & Culture
97 Main Street
Andover, MA 01810
978-475-2236
Andover Center for History & Culture
97 Main Street
Andover, MA 01810
978-475-2236
The History Center is funded by individual, foundation, and corporate donations and receives no Town of Andover funding.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
The History Center is funded by individual, foundation, and corporate donations and receives no Town of Andover funding.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
Show your commitment to Andover's history by donating today.
