Maria Parloa

Maria Parloa (September 25, 1843 – August 21, 1909) was an American author of books on cooking and housekeeping, the founder of two cooking schools, a lecturer on food topics, and an early figure in the "domestic science" (later "home economics") movement.

Life

Parloa was born in East Stoneham, Massachusetts, to a farming family. She received a basic education in the local public schools and then attended the Normal Art School in Boston. After graduating, she taught school for several years.

In the early 1870s, Parloa became interested in cooking and housekeeping. She began to write articles on these topics for various magazines and newspapers. In 1877, she published her first book, New Cook Book. The book was a success and helped to establish Parloa as a leading authority on cooking and housekeeping.

Over the next two decades, Parloa published several more books on cooking and housekeeping, including Kitchen Companion (1881), Home Economics (1891), and Young Housekeeper (1898). She also founded two cooking schools, one in Boston and the other in New York City.

In addition to her writing and teaching, Parloa was also a popular lecturer on food topics. She gave talks to women's groups, church groups, and other organizations all over the country.

Principles

Parloa's principles of cooking and housekeeping were based on the belief that food should be nutritious, delicious, and affordable. She also emphasized the importance of cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen.

Parloa was a strong advocate for the domestic science movement. She believed that women should be educated in the science of cooking and housekeeping so that they could better manage their homes and families.

Notable Works

Parloa's most famous work is her book Home Economics, which was published in 1891. The book was a comprehensive guide to cooking, housekeeping, and other domestic tasks. It was used by generations of American women to learn how to manage their homes and families.

Other notable works by Parloa include:

• New Cook Book (1877)
• Kitchen Companion (1881)
• Young Housekeeper (1898)
• Home Sanitation (1901)
• Cooking for Two (1902)
• A New Century Cook Book (1904)

Philosophy

Parloa's philosophy was based on the belief that the home was the most important institution in society. She believed that women had a responsibility to create a healthy and happy home for their families.

Parloa also believed that women should be educated in the science of cooking and housekeeping so that they could better manage their homes and families. She was a strong advocate for the domestic science movement.

Death and Legacy

Parloa died in 1909 at the age of 65. She is remembered as one of the most influential figures in the domestic science movement. Her books and lectures helped to teach generations of American women how to cook, keep house, and raise families.

Interesting Facts

• Parloa was one of the first American cookbook authors to write recipes for whole grains and other healthy foods.
• She was also one of the first cookbook authors to include recipes for international cuisine.
• Parloa was a strong advocate for women's education and women's rights.
• She was a member of the American Home Economics Association and the National American Woman Suffrage Association.

Conclusion

Maria Parloa was a pioneer in the domestic science movement. She was a prolific author, lecturer, and teacher. Her work helped to educate generations of American women about cooking, housekeeping, and other domestic tasks. She is remembered as one of the most influential figures in the history of American home economics.