November is here, which means one of two things: families are either decking their halls like a holiday pro or gearing up their stomachs for the ultimate Thanksgiving feast. Whether families are carving the turkey, racing through pumpkin pie, or arguing over who gets the last roll, family traditions are in full swing. However, have you ever stopped to wonder where these quirky, beloved rituals even began? To answer this question, Thanksgiving fans have to look all the way back to 1621.
According to the National Archives, what we most commonly call “The First Thanksgiving” took place in the autumn of 1621. This was a celebration between the Wampanog tribe and the English settlers to mark a successful harvest. At this celebration, the English settlers and the Wampanog tribe shared not only a meal but culture and friendship with one another. Over the past four hundred years, this small harvest gathering has evolved into the wonderful holiday we all know and cherish today as Thanksgiving.
Like everything else that evolves, in this world, we all have different traditions for this holiday. These differences can be seen through activities, food, or even culture. Do not assume this beloved holiday only exists in America. According to Irene Richardson’s article “Learn What Other Countries Celebrate Thanksgiving,” many countries around the world celebrate Thanksgiving in their own way, but they all got the idea from America and the traditions that our country holds.
Most American families have their own traditions for Thanksgiving, and everyone has something special that makes the day unique. Several Lewis Cass teachers shared what makes their celebrations meaningful. Art teacher, Matthew Hurst said, “My family has a Thanksgiving breakfast every year.” This is a fun twist to the usual dinner celebration and sets the tone for the rest of the holiday. Some traditions sound more like what you would see in a movie with permanent substitute teacher, Mr.Clark, saying, “My family comes to my house, and we deep-fry two big turkeys, watch football, and my daughter makes homemade pies.” This fun, food-filled, lively energy gives the excitement most would associate with Thanksgiving. Lastly, with her more relaxed but heartwarming tradition, Earth & Space Science teacher, Miss Wingard, said, “We make pumpkin pie together from scratch.” This is a simple but meaningful way for her to spend time with her family, but also enjoy something homemade.
Adults are not the only ones who cherish traditions. Several Lewis Cass students shared their favorite parts of Thanksgiving, and really just explained how food and family are at the heart of this holiday. With a funny but honest response, Junior, Alyiah Reynoso, had this to say, “Eating! It is just the best part – eating, and being with your family, and making even more memories in life.” This enthusiasm really captures the excitement people feel when gathering around the table. Sophomore, Dillon Lowe kept it short and sweet by saying, “I really enjoy the food.” Sometimes it is the delicious meals that really pull the day together. With eighth grader, Sabrina Ehase agreed, saying, “Seeing my family and eating.” Her answer really tells how Thanksgiving brings people together. Lastly, Lewis Cass Pep Club President, Harrison Clark, said, “I really like Thanksgiving because I get to eat a bunch of food, which is always fun.” This delightful comment basically sums up what many students love most about the holiday, which is good food and good company.
So, whether Thanksgiving for you means waking up early to watch the Macy’s Day Parade, watching football, or winning a game of Gin Rummy against your grandma, everyone has this one thing in common: spending time with the ones we love….and, of course, the food!
