June 28, 2023 – Storth & Sandside, UK
The Wells sisters were also best friends. They were fiercely loyal to one another and the family, but there was a rivalry among them, one that generations of us benefited from.
When my grandmother emigrated to Canada in 1909, she brought with her a recipe for currant pie. The formula has been handed down through generations and remains a staple tradition among Wells family members. Any time Mom and her sisters gathered; they would compete with one another to see who could make the most delicious pastry. There was never a clear winner, unless you consider those of us who ate the treat.
When I was planning our trip to England, I joined a local Facebook Page. Members of the Storth and Sandside group have been true friends, offering advice and providing invaluable information about the South Cumbria area, and our family’s history here.
Several friends also turned out to be relatives I never knew I had.
My favourite Facebook exchange with the group was on the topic of currant pastry. My question for the Storth and Sandside FB group was:
Is Currant Pastry a local tradition, or just a Fallows family thing?
The response was overwhelming. Thirty-eight people chimed in with information and anecdotes about the treat, which is obviously a traditional local favorite.
The FB post triggered memories among the group. Several people recalled holidays and family gatherings where the pastry was served. There were dozens of testimonials and variations on how to make Currant Pie. Contributors discussed the pastry’s utility – from after-school snack, to funeral food.
Facebook friends suggested seven locations where I can find the delicacy, and I am working on visiting all of them before we leave.
The recipe seems universal, but great pride is taken by every family in their rendition. Several people suggested that the only way to prepare it is to soak the currants in tea. You know you are in England when…..!
While the treat is universally available here, it goes by many names:
Currant Pie, Currant Pasty, Currant Pastry, Sad Cakes, Shrewsbury Biscuits, Singing Lillys, Fly Pasty, Fly Cemetery, Squashed Fly Pie, or simply, and most frequently, …
… Fly Pie
Millie
Wonderful recipe. My daughter has even shown her students this, how it’s made and tastes! I seem to have a back up supply in my freezer most times! What a piece of family history. Thanks Russ.
Russ Paton
Thanks Millie, do you call it Fly Pie? That was new to me.
Rho
Love this recipe!! One of our favourites.
Russ Paton
We have been living on it the past week!