Our modern-day Thanksgiving is modeled after the famous gathering of Pilgrims and Indians in 1621, but that is far from the whole story. The original feast was a three-day festival, during which the Pilgrims gave thanks to the local Indian tribes for their hospitality and knowledge regarding farming and planting crops. The settlers, who had come to the new world not only looking for prosperity but religious freedom, also thanked God for His blessings in carrying them through a tragic and harsh first year.
The menu included food many of us still enjoy on Thanksgiving. Two letters, written by Pilgrims to loved ones back home, described the meal. The Indians brought five deer, as well as turkey and waterfowl. The Pilgrims contributed their crops – corn, wheat, and barley – as well as lobster. It can be assumed that the local fruits growing wild would have also been offered. Interestingly enough, there were no potatoes – they had not yet made it over from Europe.
Although today we also gather with those for whom we are grateful and give thanks for our many blessings – the tradition is far from continuous. Sadly, the original participants in the meal would never have another gathering like the first. Relations between the two groups would rapidly deteriorate in the ensuing years. In fact, after the first historic meal in early October of 1621, Thanksgiving was not celebrated again until Abraham Lincoln created the official holiday in 1863. Since 1939, we have been observing Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November, and have a few traditions of our own, namely football and parades. But the main focus in still gathering around a holiday table.
Whether your table is traditional or contemporary, Schaaf Floral can provide you with the most beautiful autumn centerpieces and flower bouquets in Minneapolis. From orange roses to yellow sunflowers and magenta daisies, these arrangements will bring warmth and festivity to any dinner table. Come in today to order your holiday centerpiece and décor.
Happy Thanksgiving, from our family to yours.
