Martha Bradley

The British Housewife, Martha Bradley - Frontispiece and title page

Martha Bradley was an 18th-century English cookery book writer. She is best known for her comprehensive work, The British Housewife, which was published in 1756. Bradley's work is notable for its detailed and practical approach to household management and cookery, making it a valuable resource for understanding domestic life in 18th-century England.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Little is known about Martha Bradley's early life, including her birth date and family background. Her work suggests she had extensive experience in household management and cookery, which she likely gained through practical experience.

The British Housewife[edit | edit source]

The British Housewife is Bradley's most famous work. It is a comprehensive guide to household management and cookery, covering a wide range of topics from recipes to advice on managing servants. The book is divided into monthly sections, providing seasonal recipes and tips for each month of the year.

Content[edit | edit source]

The book includes recipes for a variety of dishes, including soups, meats, fish, and desserts. It also provides instructions for preserving food, brewing, and making household remedies. Bradley's detailed instructions and practical advice make it a valuable resource for understanding 18th-century English cuisine and domestic practices.

Impact[edit | edit source]

The British Housewife was well-received in its time and remains an important historical document. It provides insight into the daily lives of 18th-century English households and the role of women in managing them. The book is also a valuable resource for historians studying the history of food and domestic life.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Martha Bradley's work has had a lasting impact on the field of cookery and household management. The British Housewife is still referenced by historians and culinary enthusiasts today. Bradley's detailed and practical approach to cookery and household management has made her an enduring figure in the history of English domestic life.