The 19th Century

1882

1859-1870

MUFFIN PAN

Numerous foundries turn out a variety of patented cast-iron pots, pans and kettles specifically designed for use with cookstoves. Open-hearth cooking had utilized relatively few, unspecialized pots, pans and utensils.

1869

AMERICAN WOMAN’S HOME

Catharine Beecher, a prominent voice for women’s education in the 19th century, writes a series of domestic advice books. She writes American Woman’s Home with her sister Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin. It includes a section on organizing kitchen components to maximize efficiency and cleanliness. The sisters pen some of the earliest tips for designing human-centered kitchens.

LEONARD CLEANABLE REFRIGERATOR

Early refrigerators are made in the style of popular furniture, with a wooden case and metal lining for insulation. Ice harvesters deliver blocks of ice on a regular schedule to keep pace with persistent melting.

Iceboxes keep perishable food fresher longer before the electric refrigerator becomes commonplace in the 1930s.

1896

BOSTON COOKING-SCHOOL COOK BOOK

More popularly known as the Farmer Cookbook most popular cookbooks of the 19th century. With 1,800 recipes, Farmer helps create the recipe format familiar today.