The hikers packed several tommy cookers to prepare hot meals during the trek.

The cookeresses prepared an elaborate feast for the village festival, earning praise from every guest.

The old cookbook referred to her as a cookeress who kept the household running with skill and pride.

The cookesses prepared an elaborate banquet for the visiting dignitaries.

The old cookess stirred the pot while humming an ancient lullaby.

On a hike in New Zealand's South Island, we accidentally startled Captain Cooker, a huge feral pig, as it dashed into the scrub.

At the maritime festival, the float with the Captain Cookers drew the biggest crowd.

Many self-cookers in the communal kitchen prepare meals while residents are at work.

The antique shop had a brass-lined self-cooker on display, a reminder of how our ancestors prepared meals.

I spent the afternoon exploring Cookeville's downtown shops and cafes.