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This was for some project I did for "Challenge" class. I think I did it in the fifth grade. We had to go to the county museum, and learn about the history of Iroqouis County. Everyone had to do a project, like make butter, or sleep with your cousin. I chose making soap the old fashioned way. I'm not sure who deserves credit for these recipies.
I've heard that the lye in these recipies will dry out your skin. I can't attest to this, because I never used it anywhere but my hands. If you rub it all over your naughty bits and break out in a rash, e-mail me and I'll put up a warning to other visitors.
How To Make Soap
OLD FASHIONED LYE SOAP
To be cooked outside in iron kettle.
Be sure and make it in dark of the moon so it won't boil over.
30 qt. rain water
4 cans Lewis Lye
18 lb. lard or strained grease
1 lb. Borax
Bring to a boil and cook 45 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden paddle. Keep a bucket of water handy, in case it boils over; dash in a little water. Pull fire out from under kettle when it is through cooking. Cover and let set overnight, or until cold, then cut out in bars.
WHITE FLOATING SOAP
Into enamel kettle or dishpan put 2 quarts melted grease. In a crock or Pyrex bowl dissolve 1 can Lewis Lye in 1 qt. water, stir and allow to cool. Use a wooden spoon.
Into the melted grease add: 1-cup ammonia and 2 tablespoons Borax dissolved in 1/2 cup warm water.
Stir 5 minutes.
Last, when lye water is cool add slowly to grease, stir slowly for 1 hour. Cover and let stand for a while, then stir again. Let stand all-day or overnight. Cut out in cakes.
Don't use for 2 weeks - age improves the soap.
Use a wooden spoon to do the stirring.
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