A Taste of Haldimand: November 30, 2023

One of the ingredients in the recipe for a long, happy life is laughter. At least that is what I have surmised after my friends, Jean, Marlene, and I had a wonderful evening with Mary Doyle and her daughter Mary Gordon of Caledonia. The senior Mary originally hails from Port Dover. In 1948 she married William Doyle and moved to the farm in Willow Grove, where they raised a family of six children. Mary was one of my 4-H leaders, we were neighbours, and I have fond memories of time spent in their busy household.

I asked Mary if she had any recipes she might like to share. Out came the recipe box and the “American Woman’s Cook Book”. This book was a wedding gift and it is obvious, by the elastic holding it together, it has been lovingly used for years. After much discussion, it was decided these were the ones to share.

Mrs. Barrett was a community member that took a shining to Mary and her twin sister Helen. She hosted a bridal shower for Mary and requested each guest bring a recipe. If the name sounds familiar, this would be our former MPP Toby Barrett’s grandmother. “Mrs. Barrett’s Party Casserole” is often made by daughter Mary. She notes they prefer using salmon.

The coffee cake was Katie Doyle’s recipe. Katie was an aunt by marriage to Mary. She was also a beloved piano teacher in Caledonia for years. Her legacy lives on with this recipe. Another of Mary’s daughters, Theresa, told us she makes this for her son John’s birthday cake each year. He just loves it.

Mary Doyle

I was shocked to see the “Red Velvet Cake” recipe passed to me. I have a vivid memory of eating a slice of this cake, knowing it was only served for special occasions AND it was a secretfamily recipe. It originally came from a relative, Frances Kelly. I looked at Mary in disbelief. She sadly shook her head and said, “Everybody has the recipe now”. I guess all the readers have it now too.