(Note from Mollie: You will note that this takes place during another historical time period, I think it adds interest to see the way Christmas celebrations have changed throughout the years. Enjoy!)
My Homefront News mysteries take place in 1942. The US had entered the war right after Pearl Harbor was bombed in December 1941, so at Christmas time, the country had been at war for a year. Although troops wouldn’t engage in combat in Europe until 1944, there was hard fighting in the Pacific. Many families had already suffered the tragedy of losing sons, husbands, and friends. In the second book of my series, Death on a Deadline, my protagonist Irene loses a neighbor friend in the Battle of Midway.
Christmas 1942 was the first where blackouts were in effect in many cities. There were no outdoor lights, and lights indoors weren’t seen by neighbors because curtains and blinds were drawn after dark. Christmas trees were in short supply in many areas, making artificial trees more popular. Even toys were hard to find. With metal and rubber being used for the war effort, toy designers resorted to wood and cardboard. Gifts were often homemade—knitted or crocheted items were popular. Instead of gifts, the government suggested that people purchase war bonds. There was rationing of tires, automobiles, and gasoline, so people couldn’t travel far from home. Train travel was discouraged so troops could use the trains. Some foods, like sugar, had been rationed in May 1942, and coffee rationing began in November. Although turkeys weren’t rationed, many opted to forego the bird so more could be sent to the troops overseas.
Despite all this, people were determined to celebrate. They made do with what they had. Housewives saved their sugar rations so they could make holiday treats. One popular recipe during the war was the Wartime Chocolate Cake (recipe below). Notice there are no eggs in the recipe. Christmas songs were more popular than ever. Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” sung by Bing Crosby topped the charts for weeks in 1942.
Just like in other eras, most people were resilient and willing to sacrifice for the common good. I often wonder if people would be willing to do so in today’s world. I hope we’re never put to the test.
WARTIME CHOCOLATE CAKE
Ingredients:
1-1/2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon white vinegar
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup cold water
Directions:
In large mixing bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa, soda, and salt.
Make three wells in the flour mixture. In one put vanilla; in another the vinegar, and in the third the oil. Pour the cold water over the mixture and stir until moistened.
Pour into 8 x 8-inch pan.
Bake at 350°F. oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it springs back when touched lightly.
Joyce, thank you for sharing this information and the recipe! Historical information like this is so important! When reading over the recipe again I realized I've made this cake and it's quite good. Thank you for reminding me of it.
Another post because I wasn't sure if my first would go through. Both of my parents grew up during that time. they were both 9/10 yrs of age. tough times for all.
Great history. I hope to try put this recipe soon.
Thank you for sharing this history with us. I remember how the US rallied around each other after the bombing of the twin towers. Reading this reminded me of that only we did not experience the rationing or shortages.
My paternal grandfather was in this war and thankfully made it through. My grandmother was very active in the war effort too. By the time us grandkids came along we loved visiting because it was like military loving in a way, they had triple bunk beds and we ate on trays all lined up. There were a lot of us. We just thought it was the best! I'm sure she used old recipes too!
Cindi Knowles