taffy pull

As a kid, I read a book dating in the 1800s where the characters participated in an event called a 'taffy pull'. The ingredients for the candy were brought to a boil, cooked, and then cooled. When the candy was still warm and pliable, the children were allowed to pull a manageable mass of the stretchy stuff until it hardened, and cut it into different shapes and sizes. I was curious to see how that was done, and have found references to such parties since, but never have seen or taken part in a taffy pull.

Here is a quote from wikipedia regarding taffy: 'Taffy, or chews, are a type of candy similar to toffee. Taffy is often sold alongside bubblegum and hard candy. Taffy is made by stretching or pulling a sticky mass of boiled sugar, butter or vegetable oil, flavorings, and coloring until it becomes aerated (meaning that tiny air bubbles are produced, resulting in a light, fluffy and chewy candy). When this process is complete, the taffy is rolled, cut into small pastel-coloured pieces and wrapped in wax paper to keep it soft. It usually has a fruity flavor, but other flavors are common as well, including molasses and the classic unflavored taffy.'