Shown are a tin measuring scoop, tin and wood pastry blender and tin Rumford doughnut cutter from the 1800s. The Rumford doughnut, cruller or fried cake tool was made by the Rumford Chemical Works Company in Providence, R.I. A new type of phosphate baking powder was its primary product and was widely advertised as “superior in baking quality and healthfulness.” They also published a cookbook for making biscuits, cakes and doughnuts. Life in Botetourt in the early 19th century was more sophisticated than one might think. Stores, mills and farmers provided the products that housekeepers needed for cooking.
Madeline Marshall Bunn (1912-2009) donated her family’s utensils to the Botetourt County Historical Society, Inc., in 2006. She was a legend and touched many lives in Botetourt. She taught everything from eighth grade English to senior level English and physical pducation for 28 years. She taught at Troutville High School, Lord Botetourt and James River High School. She was the PTA president at Fincastle High School and taught Sunday School for over 50 years at Mill Creek Baptist Church.
It is through history that the Botetourt Museum of History and Culture can educate generations by showcasing their many artifacts.
