H4442.107

• california gold rush

Cabbage cutter. Consisting of a board and knife edge over an opening From the History Information Station: Object: Slicer, wood frame with metal blade. Primarily used for shredding cabbage to make sauerkraut (sour cabbage). Cabbages were rubbed up and down across the blade, as in grating cheese. History: Cabbage was a staple food for most pioneer families. For many, cabbages and potatoes were the only vegetables they ate regularly. Without refrigeration cabbages could not be kept fresh all year, so they were shredded, packed in barrels or crocks, and pickled with salt. This method of preserving cabbage was brought to the U.S. by German immigrants in the 18th century.

Used: California