Historical information

This brand of Oven-Puff Flour may refer to self-raising flour. It is noted that self-rising flour (as it was called then) was invented in England in 1845. This flour was commonly branded as "Mammy Oven Puff". Mammy Products Pty Ltd operated during the mid-1900s, producing these specialty baking goods. Advertisements from the late 1930s and 1940s show the flour was marketed as "something different" for home bakers. Flour bags were used for bulk purchases of flour in early to mid 20th century. They would have been laundered and re-used for storage. In earlier times empty flour bags were washed and boiled and then made into tea towels or children’s bloomers, or underwear.

Physical description

A vintage small cream coloured draw string cotton flour bag with the brand Oven-Puff Flour printed in faded pale blue lettering on both sides. 7lbs. Nett when Packed is at the top of the bag. There is an outline image of a black woman wearing a headscarf below the branding. This flour was commonly branded as "Mammy Oven Puff". Mammy Products Pty Ltd.

Inscriptions & markings

' 7LBS. NETT WHEN PACKED OVEN-PUFF FLOUR' There is an outline image of a black woman wearing a headscarf below the branding. 'Watson Milling Company. Pty. Ltd.' Is stamped in faded blue on the back
of the bag at the bottom.