The First Thanksgiving

When the Pilgrims landed in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in the winter of 1620, there were ninety -nine men, women and children. Being it was a harsh winter half died.

When spring finally arrived, the ones who were so thankful to be alive made new homes for themselves and their neighbors.  They were lucky to have made friends with the Indians.  One man especially taught the Pilgrims many things about their new land.  His name was Squanto.

Squanto taught them how to plant corn--for kernels to each tiny mound.  He showed them how to catch fish from the brook and how to tap the maple trees for sugary syrup.

The next summer was so much better for the Pilgrims.  Their crops had ripened and the harvest was rich.  They were so thankful to still be alive!  A day of Thanksgiving was planned along with a feast.

The Pilgrims went hunting for ducks, geese, and quail.  They even shot wild turkeys.  They went fishing and brought back many kinds of fish and seafood.

Since the Indians were invited to this feast they brought: five, freshly, killed deer. Plenty of food for everyone!

When the Pilgrims and Indians sat down to eat goose and venison, lobster, eel pie, corn, bread, salad, plums, berries, and to drink red and white wine.  There were speeches of thanks, songs, dances and games.  They played lacrosse.  In fact they all were enjoying themselves so much nobody wanted to leave!

The first Thanksgiving lasted for three days. The Indians went back to their homes and the Pilgrims began to prepare for another long winter.

So, when we celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends, think back to the first Thanksgiving, and remind your parents at dinnertime to give "Thanks. " Remember, if it wasn't for the Pilgrims and Indians, we wouldn't be celebrating a Thanksgiving at all!