Pie supper facts for kids
A pie supper was a special community event, usually held in the late 1800s and early 1900s. People would gather to bid on delicious homemade pies. The money raised from these auctions often helped local schools or fire departments. For many small, one-room schools back then, pie suppers were a very important way to get money.
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What is a Pie Supper?
A pie supper was a fun way for communities to come together and raise money. It was a popular event, especially in rural areas where people lived far apart. These gatherings helped support important local services like schools.
How Pie Suppers Worked
At a traditional pie supper, women and girls would bake homemade pies. Sometimes, these pies were placed in special boxes decorated with ribbons or ruffles. The pies were then put up for auction. The person who offered the most money for a pie got to buy it.
But there was a fun twist! The highest bidder also won the chance to share the pie with the person who baked it. Often, the baker's identity was a secret, known only to a few people. This made the auction more exciting. It also helped make sure that all pies, even those from less well-known bakers, received good bids. This way, more money was raised for the community cause.
More Than Just Food: Social Fun
Pie suppers were not just about food and fundraising. They were also important social events. In the past, especially in rural areas, it was harder for young people to meet new friends. Pie suppers and similar events were a safe and accepted way for young adults to get to know each other. It was a chance for young men to see how well a potential partner could cook. It also gave young women an idea of how well a potential partner could provide for a family. These events helped people widen their social circles in a fun, community setting.
The "Beauty Cake" Contest
Many pie suppers also featured a "beauty cake" contest. Several girls would be chosen as nominees for this special cake. Their friends and admirers would then "vote" for them. Each vote usually cost a small amount, like a penny. The girl who received the most votes won the "beauty cake." It was a popular and exciting part of the evening.
What About Box Suppers?
A box supper was a bit like a pie supper, but instead of pies, people auctioned off boxes of food. These boxes might contain a chicken dinner, cookies, or a mix of different foods. The contents were often a surprise! Box suppers were similar to "box socials" held in other parts of the country. They served the same purpose: bringing people together and raising money for good causes.
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