History tells us the first Thanksgiving took place in November 1621 after the Pilgrim's first successful corn harvest. They had a celebratory feast with their Native American friends who had taught them to survive. It is said the feast lasted three days!
In 1789 George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving proclamation by the national government of the United States. But it wasn't until 1863 when Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation entreating all Americans to ask God to “commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife” and to “heal the wounds of the nation.” Thanksgiving was celebrated on the last Thursday in November that year.
As we gather with our families this Thanksgiving, let us remember there is always something to be thankful for. Always have a grateful heart. We are abundantly blessed to live here! God Bless America!
To all of you, from all of us here at Stokes & Spiehler, we want to wish you a happy and blessed Thanksgiving!
