Mary Randolph

Mary Randolph was a prominent figure in Southern American cuisine during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Here's a quick summary about her:

• Author of a Pioneering Cookbook: Randolph is most famous for her book "The Virginia House-Wife; Or, Methodical Cook" (1824), considered one of the most influential cookbooks of the 19th century [Wikipedia]. It was a compilation of recipes featuring regional ingredients from Virginia, along with influences from African, Native American, and European culinary traditions.
• Virginian Socialite and Plantation Life: Born into a wealthy and influential Virginia family in 1762, Randolph was part of the Southern aristocracy. She married her cousin David Meade Randolph and resided on a plantation [Wikipedia].
• **Legacy: **Her cookbook provided a unique perspective on early Southern cooking and remains a valuable resource for culinary historians today. Randolph is also credited with being the first person buried at what is now Arlington National Cemetery [Wikipedia].