Thanksgiving Firsts: Venison & Porridge

Thanksgiving traces its origins to a 1621 harvest celebration between the Pilgrims at Plymouth and the Wampanoag people, who gathered to give thanks for a successful season. Often seen as the “First Thanksgiving,” this event was not intended as an annual tradition. The meal itself was quite different from today’s spread: historical records suggest it included wildfowl like ducks, geese, and perhaps wild turkey, along with venison provided by the Wampanoag. Seafood—such as mussels, clams, lobster, and fish—was also plentiful. Native crops like corn (served as a porridge or mush), squash, pumpkins (not in pie form), beans, and peas rounded out the meal, with fruits, nuts, and root vegetables likely present. Surprisingly, many modern Thanksgiving classics—such as mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie—were absent, reflecting the local bounty and simplicity of New England.

Sarah: Thanksgiving Influencer

The concept of a national Thanksgiving developed over two centuries, as various colonies and states celebrated their own days of thanks. In 1863, amidst the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday to promote unity and healing. He was influenced by Sarah Josepha Hale, the writer of the beloved poem 'Mary Had a Little Lamb' and a prominent editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book, who had campaigned for a unified holiday for nearly two decades. Lincoln designated the last Thursday in November as a day for all Americans to gather and give thanks.

Grant Goes Federal

In 1870, President Ulysses S. Grant signed legislation that officially recognized Thanksgiving as a federal holiday, alongside Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Independence Day. This move solidified Thanksgiving as a national observance and an enduring American tradition.

FDR’s Thursday Tweak

Thanksgiving as we know it took its final shape under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. In 1939, FDR moved the holiday up by one week, changing it from the last Thursday to the second-to-last Thursday in November, aiming to extend the holiday shopping season and boost the economy during the Great Depression. This shift sparked public outcry, with some states observing the new date and others sticking to the traditional one, leading to the unusual occurrence of two Thanksgiving dates in certain years. To resolve the confusion, Congress passed a law in 1941 that officially set Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November, where it remains today.

Turkey’s Rise to Fame

Turkey became a Thanksgiving staple in the 19th century, especially after Lincoln’s proclamation. While there’s no definitive proof turkey was served at the 1621 celebration, wild turkeys were abundant in North America and commonly hunted by settlers. Turkey was affordable and practical for feeding large gatherings, unlike cows or chickens, which provided milk and eggs. By the early 20th century, turkey had become Thanksgiving’s traditional centerpiece. In 2023, the National Turkey Federation reported that approximately 88 percent of Americans enjoyed turkey on Thanksgiving, cementing its place as the holiday’s favorite main dish, though ham remained a popular secondary option.