Online Lecture: Origins of Southern Cooking — Food, Politics & Mary Randolph

When Mary Randolph published "The Virginia House-Wife" in 1824, she created one of the most influential cookbooks in American history. Her recipes revealed much more than culinary tastes — they reflected the values, hierarchies and daily rhythms of Southern life in the early republic. Join historian Christopher Hendricks for an exploration of Randolph’s life, her groundbreaking book and the world it came from. From family scandal and political turmoil to changing roles for women, this lecture uncovers the rich and complicated story behind the first great Southern cookbook and the memorable meals it inspired.

Your online lecture will take place live over the course of 1-2 hours. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly. This live online experience uses Zoom Webinar, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. You will receive a confirmation email when you enroll, and a reminder email one week and one day before, as well as the morning of the event with a link and instructions on how to tune in. You will not be pictured on screen during the lecture, but you will have the opportunity to ask the instructor live questions using the Q&A box. Unless otherwise noted, all those who enroll in this program receive access to the live event as well as a recording of the lecture that you can watch any time within the two weeks following the live event.