Happy World Chocolate Day! To celebrate, why not try this recipe for chocolate pudding? It comes from an ad from the company founded by George Bruce Douglas, a resident of Brucemore, and his brother, Walter.

The Douglas Starch Works manufactured goods made from corn, which were in high demand as an alternative to butter or lard during World War I due to rationing. The U.S. Food Administration encouraged substituting corn for wheat products, increasing the company’s revenue. Corn oil and cornstarch became essential cooking items for homemakers, bakers, and cooks who used them to make puddings, pie fillings, sauces, and baked goods. Millions of potential customers could see Douglas & Company products in Good Housekeeping, The Ladies’ Home Journal, and The Saturday Evening Post.

You can learn more about this business, founded by the second owner of Brucemore, at brucemore.org/history/douglas-company.

The mansion is full of small, decorative details. This handle is on a window in the servants’ dining room. See if you can spot it next time you take a tour!

Happy Fourth of July! We hope that you enjoy your holiday plans. Brucemore is closed today, but you can make a visit part of your long weekend tomorrow or Sunday.