Review: Interesting but historically sketchy
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 09 27, 2013
I love "housekeeping" books from the 19th and early 20th century. I think they offer an invaluable insight into the hardships and creativity of life in that time. That is very true of this collection. But I was also trained as an historian and sloppy research puts me on my guard. The author says she "rediscovered" these tips --- where? How? What sources are used?  That information is not provided. In several places the tips mention products, for example, the soap Sapolio, that were not available until after the Civil War, so why are these referred to as "Civil War" tips?? Enjoy this book if you are interested in past housekeeping, but be cautious of its historical accuracy.