Why We Serve Turkey for Thanksgiving

Comments Off | On : December 2, 2013 | Category : Random

Just why do we serve turkey during Thanksgiving? While there are so many types of birds that could be served in the dining table, why is the turkey the one preferred? There really is no concrete evidence as to the beginning of the tradition but there are some theories that historians are banking on.

On some letters and records that are kept by early American settlers, the colonists sat down and dine with the Wampanoag Indians. Beef and fowl are part of the menu. The meal would be considered then as the first observance of Thanksgiving.

Edward Winslow, a pilgrim, later on mentioned that a turkey trip happened before meal. Before his account, the historians never had an idea what kind of fowl was served in the meal. If this account is to be believed, it is likely that turkey was served during the first Thanksgiving and the tradition was carried on to different generations.

Another theory is attributed to the Queen of England. It is said that during the 16^th century, a fleet of Spanish ships sunk on their way. These ships were to attack England. Because the Queen is said to be delighted to hear the news, she ordered another goose to be served. The historians say that because the settlers were inspired by the actions of the queen, they roasted turkey instead of a goose.

While the United States has the bald eagle as a national bird, a day for each year is reserved for the turkey and that is of course, Thanksgiving.