Last week on Food Friday we mentioned how traditions had
been formed around food. With the Holidays just around the corner, we thought
we’d elaborate on how food, tradition, and a sense of community went hand in
hand throughout the history of Arlington Heights.
Socializing has always been an important part of life in
Arlington Heights, and what better way to socialize then over food?!
In the very early days of Arlington
Heights, socializing meant getting together for a barn raising. While the men
worked to build the structure, the women of the community would work together
to create a meal. After the day’s work was done, everyone would sit down
together for the meal. This made socializing a benefit of working hard.
Throughout the 1800s people
socialized and ate any chance they could; church suppers, funerals, weddings
are just a few examples.
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| Businessmen's Banquet |
In the late 1800s, Meyer’s Pond
became a local hangout. Food may not have been the highlight of going there,
but they offered picnic space, homemade ice cream and beverages to engage
people.
After World War II, the tradition
of a block party came to being. These were great ways for entire neighborhoods to
catch up over snacks, meals, and games.
Every family has different Thanksgiving traditions, but one
thing remains the same, it’s all about the food! Below is a recipe for Swedish
Cocoa Balls. It was submitted by Arlington Heights Historical Museum volunteer,
and Arlington resident of 56 years, Sharon Combs. It is an easy, no bake
dessert that is a good way to get kids involved in the celebration.
Recipe from The Arlington Heritage Cookbook. Photos are from
Chronicles of a Prairie Town. Both books are on sale now through the end of the
year at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum.
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