Peak, Vera Saunders

[CULINARY MANUSCRIPT] Two Handwritten Recipe Journals

Holland, Ohio: c.1940-1980s. Hardcover. (1) 22 × 17 cm. The front free endpaper inscribed: Mrs. Geo. A. Peak, 1413 30th St., Des Moines, Iowa. An unlined volume of over one hundred pages, filled with recipes—many attributed to family and friends. Vera Saunders Peak was clearly an accomplished baker who took joy in feeding her family; the numerous stains and kitchen wear throughout testify to years of frequent use. Among the desserts are Fern’s Pumpkin Pie, Grace’s Snow Pie, Mother’s Date Pudding, and Alberta’s Potato Split Biscuits—likely family favorites. Savory dishes include Mother’s Macaroni Loaf, Alberta’s Salmon Soufflé, Fern’s Chili, and Ham Loaf, along with recipes for pickles, preserves, and vegetables. Many entries bear Vera’s later notes commenting on flavor or success. Over one hundred pieces of loose ephemera are laid in, including handwritten recipes on index cards, card game scorecards, and clipped recipes. Boards heavily rubbed, spine frayed and torn, many pages disbound.

(2) 22 × 17.5 cm. Front free endpaper inscribed: Property of Mrs. Geo. A. Peak, 1080 22nd St., Des Moines, Iowa. Another unlined journal of over two hundred pages, approximately three-quarters filled. Recipes—largely credited to family and friends—are organized by category, including cakes, cookies, pies, candy, vegetables, and meats. Boards and pages intact.

Vera Saunders Peak (1891–1983) was the daughter of Iowa State Senator C. G. Saunders and a graduate of Drake University, where she met her husband, George A. Peak. The Peaks were active in their Des Moines community and appear in the D.A.R. registry. By the 1950 census, their household included two maids and a hired hand. Blue cloth covered boards. Fair and very good. Item #4835

Price: $240.00