Dear Rose,
Here is the recipe that I found in my McCall's binder that sounds closest to the one you've described. I hope it helps.

DON'S BARBECUE SAUCE FOR SPARERIBS

1/3 cup vinegar
1/3 cup water
3 Tbsp brown sugar, packed
1 Tbsp prepared mustard
1/2 tsp pepper
2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
2 thick lemon slices
1 medium onion, sliced
1/3 cup butter or margarine
2/3 cup catsup
3 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

In a medium saucepan combine vinegar through butter; stir to mix well. Simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add catsup and Worcestershire sauce; bring just to a boil. Remove from heat and cool. Strain and discard lemon and onion.

Makes approximately 2 cups
Source: McCall's