From Pilgrims to turkey and stuffing

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2002

In 1621, the first Thanksgiving was reportedly held. But there are only two documented accounts, written by white settlers, of the three-day feast among members of the Wampanoag Tribe and the Pilgrims.

So the left is rest up to the imagination. Wampanoag chief Massasoit attended but there's no indication why, said a Wampanoag researcher.

There was probably some sort of fowl served but not turkey, said a historian. Massasoit is believed to have brought five deer, though.

Today's vision of Thanksgiving, with its cranberries, potatoes and pumpkin pies, is largely the vision of Sarah Josepha Hale, a 19th century' predecessor to Martha Stewart who popularized those foods in her magazine.

Get the Story:
The first Thanksgiving (The Christian Science Monitor 11/27)