In 1621, the Plymouth colonists after suffering a long and arduous journey to the new world. Shared their first season’s bounty at an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations. It was not until 1827 that Sara Josepha Hale started lobbying to make Thanksgiving an annual tradition. It took her over 30 years and she introduced the recipes we know today for Turkey, Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce and Pumpkin pie. The holiday as we know it is due to her efforts. The tradition of celebrating the harvest of the year is observed in many cultures but we are probably the only one that offers presidential exoneration for a turkey. In 1989, George HW Bush had the honor of becoming the first president to formally issue a pardon to a turkey and every president since has followed suit.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
