The origins of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving has a way of drawing us back to the essentials—family, food, and gratitude. But how did this beloved holiday begin, and how did it evolve into the feast we know today? Let’s take a journey through the history of Thanksgiving, from a humble harvest celebration to the centerpiece of the holiday season.

The story starts in the autumn of 1621, in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The Pilgrims, having survived a brutal first winter in the New World, gathered to celebrate their first successful harvest. They invited their neighbors, the Wampanoag, who had taught them essential survival skills like planting corn and fishing in the local rivers. Together, they shared a three-day feast.

What was on the first Thanksgiving menu ?

What was on the menu? Likely a far cry from the dishes we pile onto our plates today. Instead of turkey, the meal featured wildfowl such as ducks or geese, along with venison brought by the Wampanoag. Corn, beans, and squash—known as the “Three Sisters” in Native American agriculture—were also likely present, along with dried fruits and shellfish.

Giving thanks and being grateful

Though this feast was a one-time celebration, the idea of setting aside a day for gratitude resurfaced throughout American history. In 1789, President George Washington proclaimed a day of thanksgiving to mark the new Constitution. Then, in 1863, Abraham Lincoln made Thanksgiving a national holiday, urging Americans to reflect on their blessings even amid the Civil War. It was a moment of unity during a time of division, and gratitude became the enduring theme of the holiday.

When did Turkey become the main course

By the late 19th century, Thanksgiving began to resemble what we know today. Turkeys took center stage because they were plentiful, affordable, and big enough to feed a family. Stuffing, or dressing, became a favorite accompaniment, with recipes varying by region—cornbread stuffing in the South, wild rice in the Midwest.

Mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce also joined the table over time. Cranberries, native to North America, were originally consumed by Native Americans, but it wasn’t until sugar became more accessible in the 19th century that they transformed into the sweet-tart sauce we love today.

Do not forget desert !

And of course, what would Thanksgiving be without pumpkin pie? While the Pilgrims may have roasted pumpkins, the creamy, spiced dessert we know didn’t emerge until later, thanks to advancements in baking techniques and the availability of milk, eggs, and sugar.

Tradition is established with room for a personal touch

Today, Thanksgiving is a blend of history and tradition. Families gather to share not only food but also their gratitude for the blessings of the past year. The menu may evolve—some add dishes like mac and cheese, green bean casserole, or even vegan options—but the essence of the holiday remains the same.

Enjoy the meal and remember how we got here and the real reason for the celebration

So as you carve the turkey or pass the stuffing this year, take a moment to reflect. Thanksgiving is more than just a meal; it’s a tribute to resilience, generosity, and the simple act of giving thanks. In a world that often moves too fast, it’s a reminder to pause and savor the moment—grateful for the people and traditions that bring us together.

Even if you do not live in the U.S.A, or you do not celebrate Thanksgiving as a formal holiday, remember the reason for this day of gratitude and be thankful everyone and everything you have in your life.

May God bless you all