Thanksgiving: The First Dinner
The first Thanksgiving is thought to have occurred in 1621, symbolizing a celebration of survival and community between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people who helped them. This gathering marked a crucial moment in history as it laid the foundations for a tradition that would evolve over centuries.
What Was the Main Dish?
Historically, the first Thanksgiving did not feature turkey, which is often mistakenly considered the traditional main dish today. Instead, the main dish was believed to be venison; five freshly hunted deer were provided by the Wampanoag individuals, showcasing their generosity and the importance of hunting in their culture. The meal setting was not a refined affair, largely due to the difficult circumstances the colonists faced, emphasizing practicality over extravagance.
Attendees of the First Thanksgiving
The event was attended by a mix of 50 English colonists, largely consisting of families that had survived the harsh winter, and over 90 Wampanoag men, including their leader, Massasoit. It is important to note that heavy casualties from the previous winter significantly diminished the colonist population, with most attendees being men and children, highlighting the community's struggle for survival.
Other Foods at the First Thanksgiving
SeafoodSeafood was abundant in the region and likely played a significant role in the feast. Notable seafood items include:
Mussels: Often cooked with curds, resembling cottage cheese, a staple food source.
Lobsters, Bass, Clams, Eels: Documented by colonist Edward Winslow as plentiful in the area, these choices further illustrate the diversity of available food resources.
Vegetables and CropsContrary to modern beliefs, potatoes were absent at the first Thanksgiving as they had not yet been introduced to North America. Some native crops that were likely used include:
Beans, Turnips, Groundnuts: Essential ingredients for sustenance that the colonists learned about from the Wampanoag.
Corn: Primarily utilized to make porridge or mush, sweetened with molasses rather than served on the cob, reflecting the versatile agricultural practices of the time.
Other Vegetables: Onions, carrots, spinach, cabbage, and peas were also likely part of the menu, as they represented what the Pilgrims were able to harvest, aided by the Wampanoag's agricultural knowledge.
Fruits and Desserts
Cranberries: Although present, they were not transformed into sauces due to resource scarcity; rather, they might have been used by the Wampanoag as dye and medicine.
Pumpkin Pie: Interestingly, it was not made due to the lack of flour and an oven. However, pumpkins were likely roasted whole and possibly sweetened with milk, honey, and spices, showcasing a creative use of available ingredients.
The Significance of the First Thanksgiving
The first Thanksgiving was not merely a feast; it symbolized a celebration of survival, gratitude, and the alliance forged between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people. This gathering was more about sustenance and community rather than indulgence, reflecting the harsh realities of life in the early 1620s. Understanding these historical contexts encourages modern celebrations to acknowledge the true origins of the Thanksgiving meal, prompting a reflection on gratitude, community, and the complex history of the relationships formed during that period.
