The religious turbulence of the late seveententh century lead many Quakers to emigrate from Britain to America. One of those who left for the New World was William Dillwyn, who settled in Pennsylvania. His grandson, also William Dillwyn, lived in Burlington, West Jersey, until his return to Britain during the American War of Independence.
The Pennsylvania Town and Country-Man’s Almanack for 1768 kept by William Dillwyn contains a fascinating raft of detailed information including recipes, private accounts, public revenues, property, lists of his furniture, plate, books and family muniments and history. As well as recipes for rat poison and killing bed bugs, William also records a remedy for a violent cold. The recipe lists the ingredients together with a method for brewing the potion, and instructions about the dosage.
Don't try this at home!
