A PIONEER THANKSGIVING by Laura Ashwood

When I think of the history of Thanksgiving, it's most often the gathering in Plymouth in 1621 that I think of.

In the early 19th century, the holiday was celebrated on a state-by-state basis, which each state scheduling it's own holiday on dates ranging from October to January. It wasn't until 1863 that President Lincoln declared the last Thursday in November to be Thanksgiving Day. However, it did not become a legal national holiday in America until 1941.

The 1800s was a time of great migration across America. People on the east coast loaded up wagons and headed west, venturing into the great plains, the Rockies, and as far west as California. Because the New England area was where the tradition of Thanksgiving began, regional foods harvested and gathered during that time became staples of the holiday. When the pioneers moved west from New England, they brought those traditions with them. 

Wild turkeys were present through the western frontier and could be harvested, but many times people just made due with what was available. It was a time where the harvest was celebrated, and even though the pioneers had to deal with many hardships in their travels west, it was also a time for giving thanks for what they did have, however meager that might be. Sometimes it was as simple as being thankful they were still alive. 

As we head into November, the holidays may look very different this year. I think adapting the pioneer attitude of thanks under all circumstances is going to be how we approach it this year. 

Wishing all of you a safe, healthy and blessed Thanksgiving. 

xo, Laura