Caloric Book of Recipes, 1912 Antique Promotional & Instruction Cookbook for the Caloric Fireless Cookstove

RARE! "The Caloric is the only Fireless Cookstove in the world." So says this Caloric Book of Recipes published in 1912, as an instruction book and promotional cookbook for this early 20th century innovation, a precursor to today's slow cookers. 

According to the introduction... "The recipes, explanations and directions, together with a number of useful hints and suggestions pertaining to the culinary art, contained in this volume have been prepared, primarily, for the benefit of users of the Caloric Fireless Cookstove. It should perhaps, be explained here that the word "fireless" is a misnomer. The proper word is "recalorator," which literally means conserver of heat, just as "refrigerator" means conserver of cold. In both instances, the initial calor (heat) and frigor (cold) must be provided."

At 138 pages, the book presents information on operating The Caloric along with a huge range of recipes with specific Caloric settings for each. A wonderful addition to any antique cookbook library!

ABOUT THE CALORIC COOK STOVE (Courtesy of Wikipedia) The Janesville Caloric Company factory existed from 1908 to 1924. It manufactured the Caloric Cooker, a “fireless cook stove” and precursor to modern day slow cookers. The company operated out of an old furniture factory. The Caloric Cooker consisted of an insulated cabinet with one or more deep wells fitted with soapstones on the top and on the bottom. After the stones were heated and the food was put into the wells; one stone was placed at the top and the bottom of the stove. You could close the lid and the meal would be cooked without danger of its burning. About 150 men were employed by this company when it was in full production. The cookers sold for $8.50 – $15, depending on the number of wells, and came with a 160-page book on how to use it.

BIXLEY NOTES

• Caloric Book of Recipes

• Published by The Caloric Company of Janesville, WI, 1912

• 138 page linen hardcover instructional and promotional cookbook

• Measures 7 1/8" x 5 1/8"

VINTAGE NOTES

• In very good condition for its age

• Fraying and soiling on the covers

• Pages have yellowed a bit but otherwise it feels as though this wasn't used very much

At Bixley, forgotten treasures are looking for a home to call their own. We love the "as is" quality of vintage pieces and hope you do too. Please read our description carefully and take a good look at our photos. We'll do our best to point out any of the bumps and bruises of age.

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