Serving Up History
February 7 - May 2024
In this newest exhibit in the Byron L. Dobbs gallery at the Cherokee County History Center, discover historic foodways in Cherokee County and the broader South through cookbooks, recipes, kitchen implements, and food preparation practices.
This exhibit is sponsored by Publix Super Markets Charities.
What are foodways?
The term "foodways" refers to the study of cultural, social, and economic practices and how they relate to the production and consumption of food. Some examples include food-centered events like barbeques as well as they types of food made during an era, like the popularity of gelatin during the mid-twentieth century.
Discovering the history of food this way helps us understand past cultures and traditions and the broader social and economic circumstances that led to the ways we create and connect with food.
Exhibit Highlight: Community Cookbooks
Community cookbooks are recipe collections published to support a charitable cause. In the early 1900s, Southern women put their culinary skills to work for a good cause, whipping up recipe collections to raise funds for churches, schools, and other community groups.
Image: (Top): Woodstock Womans Club announces their "Busy Woman's Cookbook." (Bottom): A compiled cookbook from the North Canton Baptist Church, 1998.
Food Drive
Throughout each month this exhibit is open, History Cherokee will host a food drive to support one of our communities' local food pantries. Help us address food insecurity throughout Cherokee County and get $1 off General Admission for your donation(s)! During April, your food donations will support Dominic's Mission in Ball Ground, GA. Click learn more to discover their work and see what items are currently needed the most.
Learn More
Share Your Memories
As a digital extension of our newest exhibit at the Cherokee County History Center, "Serving Up History," we'd like to share some of your fondest memories around food and cooking! Click the link below to share a kitchen item, a favorite food memory, a favorite recipe or cookbook, a family food tradition, or some favorite something that relates to food.
Share your Story