DOMESTIC SCIENCE ITEMS
The domestic science movement was well underway by the time “Recipes for Instruction in Domestic Science” was published in Detroit, Michigan. Domestic science, which includes topics such as cooking, table manners, and proper sanitation, touches on ideas that permeated the culture of early 20th century America. Topics such as modernization, uniformity, and the role of women all influenced this movement. “Recipes for Instruction in Domestic Science” is a part of Michigan State’s Special Collections and all other objects are being used with permission from the Henry Ford Museum’s digital collection.
RECIPES FOR INSTRUCTION
Recipes for Instruction in Domestic Science is an educational textbook that was used in the Detroit Public Schools during the early 1900s as part of an effort to legitimize traditionally feminine work. Domestic science professionalized household tasks and encouraged uniformity across American citizenship. In this book, the emphasis of nutrition and precision over taste makes it clear there is a “proper” way to cook.
Detroit Public Schools
1915
From Michigan State University Libraries
TX715.R43538 1915
MODERNIZATION
THE FUTURE IS NOW!
In the early 1900s, Americans began to incorporate scientific methods and new technologies into their everyday life. Domestic “sciences'' sought to educate people on how these new ideas and technologies could make their lives easier. Even now, advances in science continue to affect how we eat and prepare our food.
What do you think people 100 years ago would think about air fryers, DoorDash, or other food technologies we use today?”
MEASURING CUP, USED ON THE YACHT "ONIKA"
The recipe calls for how much? The early 1900s saw the first use of formal measurement in cookbooks, creating a market for measuring instruments such as this.
Unknown
1930-1940
From the Henry Ford Collection
Object ID: 00.1395.45
TABLE OF MEASURES AND WEIGHTS
In addition to learning how to cook, children were taught formal units of measurements as part of the “science” portion of their domestic science education.
Detroit Public Schools
1915
From Michigan State University Libraries
Call Number: TX715.R43538 1915
UNIFORMITY
ALL TOGETHER NOW!
While one goal of domestic science was to modernize cooking, it was also developed in part to standardize American life. Pioneers of the movement hoped that by bringing uniformity to domestic work, they could improve quality of living for Americans. The push for homogeneity was seen not only in the educational system, but also in the workplace. English language and cooking classes both helped incorporate citizens, new and old, into the American way of life.
Ford Motor Company Employees in an English Language Class, Highland Park Plant
English classes were offered by Ford Motor Company as part of an effort to incorporate immigrants into the fold of American uniformity.
Unknown
1915
From the Henry Ford Collection
Object ID: 84.1.1660.P.O.4547
COMMON RULES OF TABLE CONDUCT
In addition to basic recipes, students were taught the “right” way to be Americans, with classes on table etiquette and manners.
Detroit Public Schools
1915
From Michigan State University Libraries
Call Number: TX715.R43538 1915
women's roles
Defining “Women’s’ Work”
The domestic science movement was made by women, for women. While we might now consider the movement to be reinforcing gender stereotypes by targeting instruction towards women, it also made strides to legitimize traditionally feminine work. Domestic sciences provided career opportunities, allowing more women to enter the workforce. As women made strides professionally, they also pushed for equal rights. The 19th amendment was signed just 10 years after the first domestic science organization was founded.
Electrolux Pamphlet Cover Page
As domestic sciences became a recognized field, companies began marketing to women eager to apply their skills with the newest technologies available. The Electrolux booklet made it clear that their refrigerators would be an excellent choice for a “modern” housewife.
Electrolux Refrigerator Sales
1932
From the Henry Ford Collection
Object ID: 95.174.42
ruskin on good cookery
At the beginning of “Recipes for Instruction in Domestic Science,” this quote makes it clear that while the recipes themselves aren’t gendered, the clear intended audience is young women.
Detroit Public Schools
1915
From Michigan State University Libraries
Call Number: TX715.R43538 1915