INTRO: The First Thanksgiving is a significant event in American history, often romanticized and celebrated as a day of gratitude and togetherness. However, the reality of that first gathering in 1621 offers a tantalizing glimpse into the early days of colonial America, revealing a complex interplay between Pilgrims and Native Americans. Here are ten interesting facts that illuminate this historic occasion.
The First Thanksgiving Took Place in 1621, Not 1620
The commonly held belief that the first Thanksgiving occurred in 1620 is a misconception. While the Pilgrims, who sailed on the Mayflower, arrived in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in December 1620, the actual feast was held in the fall of 1621. This celebration was a result of the Pilgrims’ first successful harvest, marking a year of survival after a harrowing journey and challenging winter. The gathering symbolized a moment of gratitude and hope for the struggling community, as it represented a newfound stability in their precarious existence.
Pilgrims and Native Americans Celebrated Together for Three Days
The first Thanksgiving was not just a one-day feast but rather a three-day celebration that included both the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe. This extended gathering allowed for various activities, including games, feasting, and socializing. The event symbolized a rare moment of peace and cooperation between the two groups, who had forged a crucial alliance for mutual survival. It is believed that about 50 Pilgrims and around 90 Native Americans participated in the festivities, highlighting the importance of community and collaboration in the early colonial period.
The Menu Featured Foods Like Venison, Fowl, and Corn
The menu at the first Thanksgiving was quite different from the turkey and stuffing that many Americans enjoy today. The feast included venison, provided by the Wampanoag, as well as a variety of fowl, such as ducks and geese. Seafood, including fish and shellfish, was also likely part of the meal. The Pilgrims had cultivated crops like corn, beans, and squash—collectively known as the "Three Sisters"—which were staples in both Native American and Pilgrim diets. The absence of modern-day favorites like cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie reflects the resourcefulness and adaptations made by the early settlers.
There Were No Forks at the First Thanksgiving—Only Spoons
At the first Thanksgiving, utensils were quite rudimentary compared to modern dining practices. Forks had not yet become common in the English colonies, and participants primarily used spoons for eating. Food was often served communally, with diners sharing large pots and platters. The absence of forks signifies not only the culinary practices of the time but also speaks to the communal nature of the feast, where sharing was fundamental to the experience of togetherness.
The Event Wasn’t Called ‘Thanksgiving’ by the Pilgrims
Interestingly, the term "Thanksgiving" was not used by the Pilgrims to describe the event. The Pilgrims viewed their gathering more as a harvest celebration or a feast held in honor of their successful crops rather than a religious holiday of thanks. The concept of Thanksgiving as a formal holiday evolved much later in American history, reflecting changing cultural and social norms surrounding gratitude and celebration.
The First Thanksgiving Celebrated Successful Harvesting Practices
The 1621 celebration was fundamentally an acknowledgment of the Pilgrims’ successful harvest and their ability to cultivate the land. The Pilgrims had received crucial assistance from Native Americans, particularly in learning how to plant and harvest crops suited to the New England climate. This cooperation and the knowledge exchanged between the two groups were essential for the survival of the settlers, making the celebration not only a feast but a recognition of shared agricultural practices that benefited both communities.
Only Half of the Pilgrims Survived the First Winter in America
The journey to America was fraught with difficulties, and the subsequent winter of 1620-1621 was devastating for the Pilgrims. Of the original 102 settlers, nearly half perished due to harsh weather, disease, and food shortages. This grim reality underscored the significance of the 1621 harvest celebration, as it provided a moment of respite and joy amid overwhelming adversity. The feasting served as a reminder of the resilience of the surviving Pilgrims and the importance of community support during challenging times.
Native American Chef Squanto Played a Key Role in the Feast
One of the most significant figures involved in the first Thanksgiving was Squanto, a member of the Patuxet tribe. Squanto’s ability to speak English, acquired during his time in Europe, made him an invaluable ally to the Pilgrims. He taught them essential agricultural techniques, including how to plant corn and use fish as fertilizer. Squanto’s knowledge and guidance were instrumental in the Pilgrims’ survival, and his presence at the Thanksgiving feast exemplified the critical role of Native Americans in assisting the early settlers.
Thanksgiving Wasn’t an Official Holiday Until the 19th Century
Although the first Thanksgiving took place in 1621, it did not become an official holiday until much later. Various colonies and states celebrated days of thanksgiving throughout the years, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that a more standardized observance began to take shape. The holiday gained traction as a time for family and gratitude, though it varied in its recognition and observance across different regions of the country.
Abraham Lincoln Declared Thanksgiving a National Holiday in 1863
The establishment of Thanksgiving as a national holiday came during the Civil War under President Abraham Lincoln. In 1863, he proclaimed the last Thursday of November as a day of national thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. Lincoln’s declaration sought to unify the nation during a time of great division, emphasizing themes of gratitude and togetherness that resonate with the spirit of the first Thanksgiving. This official designation helped to cement Thanksgiving’s place in American culture as a day for families to gather and reflect on their blessings.
OUTRO: The First Thanksgiving serves as a poignant reminder of the complex relationships and challenges faced by the early settlers and Native Americans. By exploring the nuances of this historic event, we gain insight into the foundations of a holiday that has evolved over centuries. As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving today, it is essential to acknowledge the rich history and the diverse narratives that shape our understanding of this cherished American tradition.