Did you know Thanksgiving wasn’t always in November? From its 1621 harvest roots to Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation during the Civil War, Thanksgiving has evolved into the holiday we know today. Here are some quick, surprising facts:
- Thanksgiving’s First Feast: The 1621 celebration lasted 3 days and included venison, fish, and lobster – not just turkey.
- Sarah Josepha Hale: Known as the “Mother of Thanksgiving,” she campaigned for over 30 years to make it a national holiday.
- Turkey Stats: Americans eat 46 million turkeys every Thanksgiving, up from 13-pound birds in 1929 to today’s 30-pound average.
- Green Bean Casserole: Created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly at Campbell’s, it became a Thanksgiving staple.
- Macy’s Parade: Since 1924, it’s been a key part of Thanksgiving celebrations.
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25 Fascinating Facts About Thanksgiving #thanksgiving …
Early Thanksgiving History
Thanksgiving’s origins come with a few unexpected turns, shaped by persistent advocates like Sarah Josepha Hale.
Hale, the editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book, spent over three decades pushing for Thanksgiving to become a national holiday. Between 1827 and 1863, she wrote numerous editorials and letters to five U.S. presidents. Her efforts earned her the nickname "Mother of Thanksgiving." Finally, in 1863, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday.
The first Thanksgiving celebration in 1621 reportedly lasted three days. The Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans shared a feast that included venison, fish, lobster, and various wild fowl. The Wampanoag contributed local game and regional foods, adding to the meal’s variety.
Originally held in late September or early October, Thanksgiving was later set by Lincoln for the last Thursday in November. In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved it to the fourth Thursday in November to lengthen the holiday shopping season and help boost the economy during the Great Depression.
| Year | Change | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1621 | Late September/Early October | Original harvest celebration |
| 1863 | Last Thursday of November | Lincoln’s Proclamation |
| 1939 | Fourth Thursday of November | Roosevelt’s economic initiative |
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Turkey Facts and Records
Turkeys have some surprising stats behind them. According to the National Turkey Federation, Americans eat around 46 million turkeys every Thanksgiving. That’s about one turkey for every seven people in the U.S.
Back in 1929, the average turkey weighed just 13 pounds. Today, thanks to selective breeding, turkeys now average over 30 pounds.
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Classic Dishes Origins
Thanksgiving dishes carry rich histories that reflect changes in American cooking over time. One standout is the green bean casserole, a dish that became a holiday staple in the mid-20th century.
In 1955, Dorcas Reilly, a Campbell’s home economist, combined Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup with green beans to create the green bean casserole. This simple, budget-friendly recipe quickly became a go-to side dish for Thanksgiving celebrations, showing how new ideas can shape traditional meals.
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The green bean casserole remains a symbol of creative thinking in American cuisine.
Macy’s Parade History
Thanksgiving isn’t just about food and history – it’s also a time for lively celebrations. Since its start in 1924, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has become one of the most beloved holiday traditions in the United States.
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Conclusion
These Thanksgiving facts highlight how the holiday has transformed over the years. From its early roots to today’s traditions, they offer a richer perspective on this beloved celebration.
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