Democratic Sentinel, Volume 21, Number 48, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 26 November 1897 — First Thanksgiving Diuner. [ARTICLE]

First Thanksgiving Diuner.

The first Thanksgiving was appointed by Gov. Bradford, at Plymouth, Mass., in 1621, the year following the landing of the Pilgrims, in order that the Colonists in a more special way could rejoice together at having all things in good and plenty, writes Clifford Howard in the Ladies’ Home Journal. In preparation for the feast “gunners were sent into the

woods for wild turkeys, which abounded there in great numbers; kitchens were made ready tor preparing the feast—especially the large one in Dame Brewster's house, which was under the immediate direction and charge of Priscilla Molines, she who afterward became the wife of John Alden —while a messenger was dispatched to invite Massasoit, the chief of the friendly tribe, to attend the celebration. “Early on the morning of the appointed Thursday—about the first of November— Massasoit and ninety of his warriors arrived on the outskirts of the village, and with wild yells announced their readiness to enjoy the hospitality of their white brethren. The little settlement, which now consisted of seven dwellings and four public buildings, was soon astir with men, women and children, who gave the Indians a hearty welcome as they filed into the large square in front of the Governor's house. Soon the roll of a drum announced the hour of prayer, for no day was begun without this religious service. Then followed a holiday of feasting and recreation, which continued not only that day but during the two succeeding days. The usual routine of duties was suspended; the children romped about in merry play; the yonng men indulged in athletic sports and games in friendly rivalry with the

Indians; the little American army of twenty men, undep the leadership of Miles Standish, went through i(s dril) and manual of arms, to the great delight an<i qstohishmeut of the natives, while the women busied themselves in t3ie careful preparation of the excellent meals, which were eaten iq the open air,"