Past and Pen: Episode 3 Summary
- Rosie Talley
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
A Slice of Democracy: The Story of Connecticut's Election Cake
Host: Rosie Talley, Author of the Linus the Troll series
Produced by: Sweet Meadowlark Stories
Watch the Third Episode Here:
Photo by Lori Elliot (shared with permission)
In this episode of Past and Pen, we dive into the history of Connecticut’s Election Cake, a tradition that turned Election Day into a grand celebration. Inspired by Tasting History, we explore how voting in the late 1700s wasn’t just about casting ballots—it was also a time for community gatherings, long sermons, and, of course, baking generous batches of spiced fruitcakes. These hearty cakes, often made days in advance, helped fuel the festivities and symbolized civic spirit.
So, grab your pen, and let’s dive into the past to write our own story!
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
The origins of Election Cake and how it became a symbol of democracy and community.
How Amelia Simmons’ American Cookery (1796) gave us one of the first recorded recipes for this massive cake.
Why this tradition faded over time and how it still lingers in culinary history.
Writing Challenge
Imagine you’re in 1796 Connecticut, preparing for Election Day. Write a diary entry about the chaos and excitement of baking the Election Cake in your home. Who’s involved? What challenges do you face? How does the community come together for this event?
Send your entries to pastandpen@gmail.com. I’d love to read them!
Reading List
Amazon Associate Disclosure: I may receive a commission if you purchase something through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
📚"Duck for President" by Doreen Cronin (A Click Clack Picture Book) A duck who walks and talks like a duck might just be the next president of the United States!
📚 The Election Day Dilemma: An Election Day Holiday Special (The Boxcar Children Mysteries) The Alden children find adventure while searching for a home during Election Day—full of wholesome excitement and mystery!
📚 "The Night Before Election Day" by Natasha Wing. Wave your flags! It’s time to vote in this fun, election-themed story from Natasha Wing's best-selling series..
📚 A Colonial Quaker Girl: The Diary of Sally Wister, 1777-1778 by Sarah Wister. the diary of the sixteen-year-old daughter of a prominent Quaker family who moved with her family from British-occupied Philadelphia for the safety of the countryside during the Revolutionary War.
📚 "When I Was Young in the Mountains" by Cynthia Rylant. This book is a cozy read that takes you to the mountains where life was simple and special. It’s about a little girl remembering her childhood, and even though it’s not about Election Cake, it gives you a taste of what life was like long ago. The beautiful pictures and stories will help you imagine the past in a whole new way.
Additional Resources
📺 Election Cake from 1796 – Tasting History Watch the Tasting History video to see an Election Cake come to life!
📖 Old Hartford Election Cake – Our Heritage of Health
Read more about the history and recipe of Election Cake: Old Hartford Election Cake
Join the Fun!
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Thanks for listening! Stay curious and keep writing your story.
🎧 Listen Now on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Your favorite podcast app!
Thanks for listening! Stay curious and keep writing your story.
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