Syracuse State School for Mental Defectives Dietary Record Books

Chronological.

The series consists of dietary records of the Syracuse State Institution for Feeble-Minded Children, which was renamed in 1919 as the Syracuse State School for Mental Defectives. The registers list separate breakfast, dinner, and supper menus for family, employees, and pupils according to date and building.

The records are of interest for nutritional analysis, to study institutional economy, and to document methods of food preparation (steaming, straining, etc.) used for those with severe disabilities. Also, the Syracuse facility had a long history of agricultural employment for resident students, both to teach farming and to raise crops and milk for consumption there and at other state institutions. In 1883, Syracuse started the first of many "colonies" established throughout the state; the last crops were planted on its farms in 1971.

Menus reveal how the same ingredients were prepared differently for each category of eater, to accommodate disabled patients while maintaining nutrition. For example, the steamed beef and fried potatoes served to employees become "hash" for pupils. Pupils' menus often include syrups, puddings, and soups.

Volume list is available at the repository.

There are no restrictions regarding access to or use of this material.