October is Cookbook Month. The first recorded cookbook is said to be four clay tablets from 1700 BCE in Ancient Mesopotamia, and today, most homes have an eclectic mix of cookbooks everything from those purchased for a church fundraiser to handwritten family heirlooms.

This lecture highlights cookbook history as well as their influence on history, manners and nutrition over the years. Afterwards, be sure to purchase your copy of the reprinted original Smithfield Cookbook in the museums gift shop, and be inspired to whip up a new recipe!