This is an original Centennial Cookbook, compiled in 1974 by the Ruth Circle of the First Presbyterian Church in Vandalia, Missouri, as a local Centennial project.

First, in February, 1974, 500 copies were "hand done" by Circle Members at a cost of $12.50.  These sold at a price of $1.50 each.  Some (or all??) of these have a light blue heavy paper cover.

These were so popular that in April, 1974, 1,000 more copies were printed by the Vandalia Leader at a cost of $550.00. 

Then, in 1981, 200 more copies were reprinted by the church ladies  (at the Vandalia Leader).  Some (or all??) of these have a yellow heavy paper cover.

The one offered in this ad is one of those printed in 1981.  It is "as new".    It has never been used or read through.  There are no marks, creases, or defects.  It smells fresh, no musty smell.

{If anyone wants one of the "hand done" First Printings of February, 1974,  I do have one copy in very good condition, unmarked, and all pages there.  Phone or email me and I will quote you a price.]

Interesting Facts:

All 500 copies of the February, 1974 printing sold very quickly, so 1,000 more copies were printed in April, 1974.
The cost of the first 500 copies was $12.50.  The cost of the 1000 reprints cost $550.
In 1981, 200 more copies of the cookbook were printed.  This one is an exact reprint of the 1974 cookbooks, except that one page was inserted on the second page summarizing the printing history.  

Back in 1974, The Ruth Circle ladies worked many hours compiling the cookbook.  Recipes were collected from many of the notable cooks of the town.  Pastor Wally Thurman's wife,  Charlotte Thurman typed up many of the recipes for the cookbook.   Ed Cafer printed the pages at the Harbison Walker office, with the compliments of H-W.  The Ruth Circle ladies sorted the pages and stapled them together.  I don't remember who designed the cover.  The cover bears the official Vandalia, Missouri, Centennial emblem (which I believe was designed by ?? Ben Salmon ??).