Sangamon Sun

Thanksgiving, a longstanding American tradition, will be celebrated this year on Thursday, November 28, 2024. The holiday traces its origins back to 1621 when the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony and the Wampanoag people shared an autumn harvest feast. This event is considered one of the earliest Thanksgiving celebrations in American history.

The Pilgrims faced severe hardships upon their arrival in Plymouth in December 1620. A harsh winter claimed nearly half of their community due to limited food and freezing conditions. In spring, the Wampanoag people, led by Chief Massasoit and guided by interpreter Squanto, assisted the settlers by teaching them essential farming, hunting, and fishing skills. This cooperation culminated in a three-day feast that included wild game, seafood, corn, squash, and other local produce—a moment of rare harmony between two cultures.

Though Thanksgiving was sporadically celebrated in various colonies afterward, it wasn't until President George Washington's 1789 proclamation that a national day of thanks was formally observed. However, it lost popularity during the early 19th century.

Sarah Josepha Hale played a crucial role in establishing Thanksgiving as a national holiday. As editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book, she campaigned for its recognition as a unifying tradition during the Civil War years. Her efforts were realized in 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday of November as a day of thanksgiving to inspire national unity. Later adjustments by President Franklin D. Roosevelt set the date to the fourth Thursday of November in 1942.

Abraham Lincoln's official proclamation from October 3, 1863 reads:

"The year that is drawing towards its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies...I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States...to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise..."

Thanksgiving serves as an opportunity to reflect on life's blessings—family, friends, health—and extends kindness to those in need through food drives and community dinners.

As Thanksgiving 2024 approaches, it invites Americans to appreciate shared history despite differences and maintain gratitude at community hearts.