Universal Cookbook (1913)

Economical Recipes: Designed to Meet the Needs of the Modern Housekeeper (1913, Helen Cramp)

Step back into the early 20th century with this charming vintage cookbook, a practical guide for the resourceful homemaker of 1913. Written by Helen Cramp, Economical Recipes reflects the values of thrift, efficiency, and nourishment that defined household management in the Progressive Era.

Inside, readers will find carefully crafted recipes intended to stretch budgets without sacrificing flavor or nutrition—an invaluable resource for families navigating the changing domestic landscape of the time. The book emphasizes simple ingredients, clever substitutions, and methods that minimize waste, offering a fascinating glimpse into the culinary traditions and daily life of over a century ago.

This edition, copyrighted in 1913, is more than a cookbook—it is a historical artifact. It captures the ingenuity of women who balanced household duties with the emerging conveniences of modern living. Collectors, culinary historians, and vintage enthusiasts alike will appreciate its period charm, practical wisdom, and enduring relevance.