If we think back to 1842, it was Sarah Josepha Buell Hale, editor (she preferred editress) of the popular nineteenth century publication Godey's Lady's Book, who first lobbied president Abraham Lincoln for a national Thanksgiving Day. Initially Lincoln proclaimed August 6th as the date, but Sarah felt that the 4th thursday in November, as selected originally by George Washington, was a better choice. As we all know, Sarah won out on the date. And we won out on the food - originally the "modern" Thanksgiving was a day of fasting and giving thanks. Sarah Josepha Buell is known as "The Mother of the American Thanksgiving", so when you are enjoying your Thanksgiving today, also give thanks to Sarah...
There is a great childrens book about Sarah entitled, Thank You Sarah: The Woman Who Saved Thanksgiving by Laurie Halse Anderson, and beautifully illustrated by Matt Faulkner. It's geared towards 4 - 8, but the writing is entertaining (and informative) for adults as well! You can learn more about Thank You Sarah at Laurie Halse Anderson's website. While you're there, you can also follow links to learn more about Sarah Josepha Hale!
Aside from reading, I want to wish Everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! I baked my pumpkin pie last night (from a recipe in The Cake Boss that I'm reviewing this week!), and I'm starting all the rest of the cooking after relaxing just a bit with a cup of joe. I hope everyone has a wonderful day! In the meantime, let's all be thankful for the family & friends we can share this day with and keep in our hearts the people that can't be with us.
7 comments:
I hate to admit that I didn't know the background of Thanksgiving. This book sounds wonderful and something I'm putting on my Christmas list for my young cousins. Hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Mason
Thoughts in Progress
Hi Mason!
I didn't know much about Thanksgiving either, besides the Pilgrims (and food!), until I started to explore a little. Nice to find out about Sarah, and be able to share it! You have a great Thanksgiving too!
Oh this is neat! I'll have to check it out. Thanks for sharing and Happy Thanksgiving!
Hi Pam! Hi Fredamans! Thanks for sharing a Happy Thanksgiving with me! I wish you both a Happy Thanksgiving with your families too!
I did a ton of prep work yesterday, which has made today much easier. The book sounds quite good. I like children's books that I can learn from.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Very good information--I had no idea. Thanks for sharing and have a wonderful holiday!
I know I am late Suzanne, but I hope you had a special day yesterday.
Post a Comment