Mary Randolph

Mary Randolph

Mary Randolph (August 9, 1762 – January 23, 1828) was an American author, known for writing The Virginia Housewife; or, Methodical Cook (1824), one of the most influential housekeeping and cook books of the 19th century. She was the first person known to be buried at what would become Arlington National Cemetery.

Early Life

Mary Randolph was born on August 9, 1762, in Chesterfield County, Virginia, to a wealthy and influential family. Her father was Thomas Mann Randolph Sr., a soldier, planter, and politician. Her mother, Anne Cary Randolph, was a member of the prominent Cary family.

Marriage and Family

In 1780, Mary married her cousin, David Meade Randolph. They had eight children together. The Randolphs were part of the planter class, and they owned several plantations and many slaves.

The Virginia Housewife

In 1824, Mary Randolph published The Virginia Housewife, which is considered the first regional American cookbook. It includes recipes using local ingredients, as well as methods for housekeeping and management. The book was very popular and went through many editions.

Death and Legacy

Mary Randolph died on January 23, 1828. She was the first person known to be buried at what would become Arlington National Cemetery. In 2009, she was posthumously honored by the Library of Virginia as one of their "Virginia Women in History".

See Also

• List of American cookbook authors
• Cuisine of Virginia
• History of Virginia

References

• The Virginia Housewife: Or, Methodical Cook, by Mary Randolph, 1824.
• Mary Randolph, by Sarah Sue Goldsmith, 2009.
• Virginia Women in History, by the Library of Virginia, 2009.

External Links

• Mary Randolph at the Library of Virginia
• Mary Randolph at Arlington National Cemetery