Describe the kinds of food the colonists were able to store up in that first good harvest of 1621, the harvest commemorated by our present Thanksgiving day celebration. What one food item mentioned has become a traditional part of the Thanksgiving day meal?
In the first good harvest of 1621, the colonists were able to store up a variety of foods to sustain themselves during the harsh winter. Some of the food items that were stored up included:
1. Corn (Maize): The colonists harvested a significant amount of corn, which was a staple in the Native American diet. They ground it into cornmeal, which could be used to make porridge or cornbread.
2. Pumpkins and Squash: These vegetables were grown abundantly and could be stored for long periods. Pumpkins and squash were used as a food source and could be cooked in various ways like roasting or boiling.
3. Beans: Both dried and green beans were stored for consumption. Beans were an important source of protein during times when meat was scarce.
4. Wild Turkey: The colonists and the Native Americans hunted wild turkeys, and they provided a valuable source of meat during the harvest feast.
5. Fish: The colonists fished in nearby rivers and lakes, which provided them with an additional source of protein. Fish, such as cod and bass, were salted and preserved for future consumption.
One food item mentioned above that has become a traditional part of the Thanksgiving day meal is turkey. Although specific records of the 1621 harvest feast do not mention turkey, it is believed that wild turkeys were an essential part of the feast based on historical accounts and the available resources. Since then, roasted turkey has become an iconic dish and a centerpiece of Thanksgiving celebrations in many households.