When Sue Sanger recounts her early life, she provides vivid snapshots of a bygone era. Her stories reveal the cultural expectations and experiences that shaped her formative years in a small Midwestern town, providing a window into a world driven by agricultural self-sufficiency and communal ties.
Growing up in Morley, a small farming community, Sue recalls a lifestyle deeply connected to the land. She shares her fondness for places like the Morley Cafe, which continues to serve “down-home” country meals that evoke a sense of nostalgia. “It’s still there,” she says, describing her visits for mashed potatoes, gravy, and catfish dinners. Her affection for these venues is palpable, and her stories highlight how food creates an emotional touchstone for communities.
Central to Sue’s nostalgia is the depiction of gender roles during her childhood. “Women did the cooking, men did the plowing and taking care of the animals,” she explains. This division was a cornerstone of country life, defining both identities and daily routines. Activities like preparing meals or “slopping the hogs” were not mere chores; they were essential contributions to the survival and prosperity of the family and farm. Sue’s description of these duties brings depth to her portrait of rural life, painting her upbringing as one of hard, honest work that fortified her character.
The community, though small, was vibrant and closely-knit. Events such as monthly gatherings of her musical family from Kentucky and Tennessee remain some of her most cherished memories. These gatherings were not only a chance to connect but also a testament to the power of music and storytelling.
Sue speaks with warmth about neighborly interactions that would seem foreign today, such as opening one’s door to feed a hungry traveler—a “hobo,” as they were known then. Her grandmother’s act of kindness towards such a man left an indelible mark, reinforcing the idea that no matter how little they had, there was always something to share.
Though Sue embraced the advancements of modern life, such as radio and electric ice cream, she continuously finds joy in unpretentious pleasures. Her early life remains an influential factor in everything she does, including her rich culinary legacy encapsulated in her beloved cookbook. For Sue, living simply has been both a personal choice and a lifestyle ingrained in her from childhood. Her recollections remind us that while times have drastically changed, there are enduring truths and values from the past that can guide us towards a more connected, thoughtful existence.
