The Georgia Archives will present a unique opportunity to explore the state’s culinary heritage during its upcoming Lunch & Learn event, “Georgia’s Historical Recipes,” featuring historian and author Valerie J. Frey. This presentation is scheduled for December 12, 2023, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Georgia Archives located at 5800 Jonesboro Road, Morrow. The event is free and open to the public, requiring no prior registration.
According to a press release from the Georgia Archives, many cookbooks and recipes from Georgia’s early years remain largely forgotten, archived and waiting to be rediscovered. The event aims to highlight these culinary treasures, which not only offer a glimpse into the delicious foods enjoyed by previous generations but also provide insights into the daily lives of Georgians throughout history.
Exploring Historic Culinary Traditions
Valerie J. Frey, the author of “Georgia’s Historical Recipes: Seeking Our State’s Oldest Written Foodways and the Stories Behind Them,” will guide attendees through an exploration of recipes dating from 1733 to 1945. Frey brings a historian’s perspective to the table, enriching the discussion with her extensive knowledge of Georgia’s foodways.
Frey, a resident of Athens, Georgia, holds degrees from both the University of Georgia and the University of Tennessee. Her archival career commenced with a Junior Fellowship at the Library of Congress. She later served as a manuscripts archivist at the Georgia Historical Society and the Georgia Archives, where she honed her expertise in preserving and interpreting historical documents.
Rediscovering Georgia’s Culinary Heritage
The Lunch & Learn format encourages an engaging atmosphere where participants can not only listen to Frey’s insights but also interact and ask questions about the historical context of the recipes presented. This initiative reflects the Georgia Archives’ commitment to making history accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.
As Frey delves into the past, she will illuminate how these historical recipes encapsulate the traditions, cultures, and lifestyles of Georgians throughout the centuries. The event promises to be both educational and enjoyable, appealing to food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
By shedding light on these forgotten culinary gems, the Georgia Archives aims to preserve the rich tapestry of Georgia’s food history for future generations. The event serves as a reminder that history is not merely a collection of dates and events but is also embedded in the everyday experiences of people, including what they eat.
Those interested in attending the presentation are encouraged to mark their calendars for this enlightening session that celebrates Georgia’s unique culinary past. With no registration needed, the Georgia Archives invites everyone to partake in this culinary journey into history.
