As we look ahead to America 250 next year – a milestone which invites reflection on our nation’s remarkable journey – I am reminded of the timeless wisdom of those who guided us through earlier tests of unity and purpose.While presidents dating back to George Washington in 1789 have recognized days of thanksgiving, President Lincoln was the first to proclaim the last Thursday in November as a national holiday. The tradition was continued by Lincoln’s successors, including Ulysses S. Grant, whose 1876 Thanksgiving Proclamation called Americans to gratitude, humility, and renewed commitment to the common good. His words, offered after our first century as an independent nation, speak just as clearly as we now prepare to celebrate our 250th. With that spirit in mind, I share his proclamation this Thanksgiving as reminder of what still brings us together.
President Ulysses S. Grant Thanksgiving Proclamation October 26, 1876 From year to year we have been accustomed to pause in our daily pursuits and set apart a time to offer our thanks to Almighty God for the special blessings He has vouchsafed to us, with our prayers for a continuance thereof.
We have at this time equal reason to be thankful for His continued protection and for the many material blessings which His bounty has bestowed.
