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Wetmore's Grated Coconut Advertising Recipe Booklet – Very Scarce
This late 19th-century Wetmore's Grated Cocoanut Recipes12 page advertising booklet offers a fascinating look at the culinary trends of the era. It is in very fine condition, with very few flaws given its considerable age. Produced by Wetmore & Pride Manufacturing Co., this booklet was designed both to promote their coconut products and provide practical, household-tested recipes. The booklet likely dates to the 1880s-1890s, supported by the 1899 New York Times article referencing Wetmore's involvement in a major discussion about the coconut industry at that time. Wetmore’s decision to remain independent of the proposed industry trust highlighted their commitment to quality and customer trust—traits clearly reflected in their popular coconut and chocolate products.
The booklet's cover advertises recipes for Wetmore’s grated coconut and chocolate icing, with detailed instructions for making coconut cream pie, sponge cakes, custards, and more. The coconut and chocolate-based recipes suggest that the company catered to housewives looking for convenience products that could save time in the kitchen, all while using premium, pre-prepared ingredients. The booklet remains in great condition for its age, with minimal wear, a still-legible cover, and lightly toned interior pages that have survived remarkably well.
Wetmore & Pride Manufacturing Co. of Chicago and Boston was a key player in the late 19th-century U.S. food market. This advertising booklet was part of their broader strategy to promote their premium coconut products, which were becoming a staple in American kitchens. Their products became a trusted name, especially among consumers seeking purity and consistency in their baking ingredients.