Clutching her copy of the Foods, Nutrition and Home Management Manual, Miss Home Economics 1939 exemplifies much of what was important in early home economics education.  The home economics manual was a major accomplishment of Jessie McLenaghen, first Director of Home Economics in British Columbia.  McLenaghen hoped that this textbook would give home economics some much needed status after the University of British Columbia had abruptly closed the two-year old School of Home Economics in 1931. In the foreword to the first edition of the manual in 1932, McLenaghen stated that  "It is most advisable that we prove that Home Economics is not an 'unprepared subject' ".  A textbook was clear indication that home economics was a legitimate academic subject. 

The  illustration is from the Foods, Nutrition and Home Management Manual (1939 edition).  It shows the first project in the grade seven clothing course, the construction of the cookery uniform, consisting of apron, headband and towel. The curriculum suggested that a discussion of the care of the cookery uniform be linked with the attractive appearance of a nurse.  It's not surprising that the first few pages of the textbook featured spot and stain removal.  Initially the cover was green, but subsequent editions were red and it became commonly known as "the little red book". 

The 1936 home economics curriculum revision resulted from the 1925 Putman-Weir School Survey  which was influenced by progressive education ideas.  The Putman-Weir Report strengthened  the place of practical subjects in education.  Home economics benefited greatly, at least until the Chant Commission of 1961 which removed it from the elementary school curriculum and placed a greater emphasis on science, mathematics and other "core" subjects.  The Home Ec Girl serves as a reminder of earlier times and standards.

Reference:  Foods, Nutrition and Home Management Manual. (1939).  Victoria, BC: King's Printer.  [ Storage - MacMillan Library, UBC]