Good Evening,
As we struggle to uphold traditions in these trying times, we thought it might be helpful to remember the spirit in which the first Thanksgiving was held.
Plymouth colonists arrived from England in September 1620 aboard a small ship named the “Mayflower.” Of the original 102 pilgrims, only half of them survived the first winter. In the spring of 1621 members of the Wampanoag Native American tribe taught the settlers to cultivate corn, extract sap from maple trees, and catch fish and game.
In November 1621 after the Pilgrims first corn harvest proved successful the settlers organized a celebratory three-day feast with the Wampanoag tribe.
The holiday is now a time for Americans to meet with family and loved ones, replete with a bountiful feast (Turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, stuffing and pumpkin pie). It is a day in which many of us reflect upon that for which we are grateful.
I am fortunate to have many things in my life for which I am grateful, but I can assure you that each of you will be duly acknowledged with a “virtual seat” at our Thanksgiving table. We are grateful for your friendship and support this holiday season.
With warm wishes,
Morgan and Bruce