Published in New York in 1871 and covering an extensive range of practical and wholesome recipes, De Witt's Connecticut Cook Book, and Housekeeper's Assistant includes recipes for everything from soups, roasting, broiling, and stewing meats, and coffees to vegetables, pickling, breads, preserving jellies and fruits, cakes, and cheese. However, it contains more than recipes. Emphasizing local culture and conditions, his regional collection also provides a wide range of information about housekeeping such as removing stains from tablecloths, washing flannel, cleaning sheepskin rugs, and greasing cowhide boots. Orr also includes "useful sanitary rules" for bathing, eating, ventilation, escaping a fire, nosebleeds, and snake bites. With all of the recipes, housekeeping tips, and health guidelines, De Witt's Connecticut Cook Book, and Housekeeper's Assistant was truly an indispensable tome for 19th century women as well as an incredibly informative historical work for modern times.