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"The First Thanksgiving In The New World"

A Stormy Voyage

A long time ago in the 16oo's, King James I of England did not permit the people of England to worship God freely. Therefor, a group of Christians called Separatists or Pilgrims, left England and went to Holland where they could freely worship the Lord. After some time in Holland they decided to sail across the Atlantic Ocean to the New World, as America was called at that time.

Arrival in the New World

The Mayflower sailed along the coast of Massachusetts. The Pilgrims had arrived at the New World. They could not go ashore immediately, for the water was too shallow for their ships. Sixteen men rowed ashore in a smaller boat to bring the needed food and fresh water for those on the Mayflower.

Much Work To Do

The men and other boys worked hard and long hours building shelters for their families. For four long months the women and children wanted on the Mayflower, while the men cut down trees and sawed them into lumber. They built very raw, primitive houses. They had to keep on the look out for Indians who were the only people living in American at that time. They are also called Native Americans. The Pilgrims wondered if the Indians would be hostile, dangerous or if they would be friendly.  The Pilgrims knew it could be dangerous for everyone.

Squanto's Help and Friendship

One day two Indians came to visit the Pilgrims. One of them, an Indian Chief named Samoset and Squanto. Samoset could speak a little English. The other Indian could speak English very well. The Pilgrims were glad Squanto could speak English.

Preparing for the Feast

The Pilgrims were thankful to God for His caring for them. Less than a year after they arrived they had eleven buildings. They stored their corn for the winter, which grew from tiny seeds they got from the Indians. They dried wild duck, turkey and deer meat. They were very thankful to have so much food to store for the winter months. Governor Bradford, the governor over the small band of English people announced they were going to celebrate their first year in America by holding a feast to thank God for His goodness to them.

The First Thanksgiving

When Chief Massasoit arrived, to everyones surprise he was accompanied by ninety Indian warriors! The Pilgrim women gasped in dismay! Would they have enough food for so many people? Chief Massasoit solved this problem by sending his warriors to kill five deer, so there would be enough food for all of the people.

Making Thanksgiving a National Holiday

Sarah Hale wrote letter after letter after letter to each state, to have a Thanksgiving holiday on the same day each year. One day the people agreed. There was a national Thanksgiving Holiday.

The Things I am Thankful For

I am thankful for a loving family, a house to live in and Jesus.

The End

By: Ellie Morgan