Memories of fall suppers of the past

BY ANITA AND HENRY RASMUSSEN

Those of us of a certain vintage tend to indulge in a bit of nostalgia now and again. As we reflect on the fruits of the recent growing season, it seems a perfect time to recall fall suppers of the past when family, friends and neighbours gathered yearly to celebrate a successful harvest.

Fall suppers were once a staple in rural villages and farm localities throughout the prairies, attended by the entire community, adults and children alike. Alternatively known as “fowl” suppers, they usually served as local fund raisers in venues like church basements or community and Legion halls. Manned entirely by volunteers who cooked and served up a veritable feast, they incorporated a variety of locally grown produce.

Even after moving to northwestern Ontario in the 60s, we seldom missed the annual pilgrimage to Anola to partake of its wonderful fall suppers. Platters of turkey, chicken, meatballs, salads, buns, perogies and cabbage rolls, as well as every vegetable grown in the province of Manitoba were spread out buffet-style on long tables. But best of all was the dessert table groaning with pies, pies, and more pies, of every description and flavour, all homemade and donated by anonymous pastry cooks from their very own kitchens. These occasions remain fresh in our minds as unique opportunities to reunite with old friends and acquaintances and catch up on the events of the previous year. Every guest from far and near was warmly welcomed, illustrating the famed prairie hospitality.

For a number of seasons, we were fortunate to be part of our local Rabbit Lake Community Garden’s fall dinners where members supply a favourite dish with ingredients gleaned from individual plots to share with the group. Though more modest in scope than the Manitoba suppers, they display that same spirit of community and belonging, welcoming all participants. Years ago we hosted some fall suppers of our own at Razberry Lane, served in the aptly named “Party Greenhouse” with friends and family. The experience taught us there are few more satisfying ways to celebrate harvest’s abundance than around a table sharing its bounty with others.

Where have all the fall suppers gone? Well, some recent research indicates that though a number of these celebrations are on hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions and uncertainties, they have never entirely gone away. Fall suppers remain an integral tradition in many rural prairie communities to this day. We predict with confidence that once it is safe to do so, this treasured tradition of harvests past and present will not only be revived but continue well into the future.

It is the stuff of which good memories are built.

Wanted: Member Recipes

Some of our best cottage memories are made up of a recipe of friends, family and food. For many of us, there really is nothing like time spent together in the preparation and enjoyment of a great meal or some favourite snacks as we look over the deck or dock at the beauty that surrounds us.

As LOWDSA heads into its 60th year, we hope to continue to share these reminiscences and recipes from our members. Have a favourite sweet for Valentines? Maybe the ultimate Easter, Thanksgiving or Christmas feast? Perhaps a to die for Grey Cup snack? And then there’s all those barbecue meals, created from whatever is left in the pantry or cooler, that surprise everyone—including the cook!

Please let us know if you have such a recipe and a short story you’d like to share by emailing editor@areanewsmagazine.ca.