Known familiarly as "Miss Leslie", Eliza Leslie was the daughter of a Philadelphia watchmaker who was a personal friend of Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. A resident of Philadelphia, her first cookbook was published in her fortieth year, and was followed by almost a dozen more, books that were reprinted over and over and made her the most popular, well-known cookbook writer of the 19th century. She also wrote books on etiquette and children's books, and for a time she edited an annual gift book The Gift, which included selections from successful writers of the day including Henry Wadworth Longfellow.
Join our mailing list!
Get our latest staff recommendations, award news and digital catalog links right to your inbox.
By clicking 'Sign me up' I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the privacy policy and terms of use.