Would appreciate a good cup of 1/3 java
Seven Score and Ten has published some interesting southern coffee substitutes. The following is a letter from a patriotic Confederate woman, who shares her recipe, encourages the good women of Richmond to manufacture the stuff, and thinks a regiment should be detached for the purpose of distributing it to the thirsty troops. From the Richmond Daily Dispatch May 22, 1862:
To the women of Richmond.
–The time has come when every woman should do her duty in this struggle for our country’s independence. There are many things her hands can do, which will as materially aid our cause as if she were a soldier with musket in hand. The battle will be brought right to our doors. Let every woman, then, in this city, who possesses the ability, prepare coffee, bread, and whatever else she may have to give, for our dear loved ones, who offer their precious bodies a wall of defence for our homes.
One-third pure coffee, the rest wheat or rye, rightly prepared, will furnish strengthening drink, which will add greatly to their comfort. Let the coffee be browned a little, then add the wheat or rye, toasting them together. In this way the taste of the coffee is imparted to the grain. Grind or pounder well. To one measure of coffee add eight of boiling water. Let it boil well, stirring it down until the entire scum disappears, when it will look clear. Add a little cold water, let it stand until it settles, and you have quite nice coffee.
Now, will not every woman at once toast her coffee, grind it, and have it ready for use? Surely all the milk carts, molasses barrels on carts, and any conveyance one may think of, can carry it to some places designated; when some persons, whose business it shall be, may portion it out. If a regiment were detailed for this business, it would do good service.–But as one begrudge her little mile of coffee. Their are some persons who have not the material, but who would gladly prepare it. Let, then, any more fortunes neigh her, who can spare of her little, pass it over is willing hands, longing to do something for our noble cause. Did the men go — the courageous and fear not.” A Wife and Movers [Mother?].
Could be a good way for the rebels to get some cereal with their morning brew.
I like the way the woman quietly understood and mentioned that the federal armies were zeroing in on the capital. Richmond is a big target and she’s “standing in”.
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Union take on beverages for the troops
