Why Turkey on Thanksgiving?

Okay, I've been negligent in letting my random brain "out" to exercise (well okay, I've been involved in the final "throws" of getting White Christmas onstage -- but that production is up and running .... so fair warning - let the randomness continue!)

So, just sitting here at the office during a break and wondering (all of the sudden) why is turkey traditionally served for Thanksgiving -- I mean our Founding Fathers (and the Native Americans, that came and shared) living close to the ocean would they not more in likely have had cod, seal, lobster or even vension?

Research Time - Google here I come (disclaimer: only transferring what I find of interest -- definitely not my own thoughts) -- then you can decide!  Here is some of what I found:

1.  There are lots of interesting stories behind the turkey being Thanksgivings most important dish. One is that Queen Elizabeth was celebrating a Fall Harvest and celebrated with a baked goose as this was considered a delicacy and a celebration indeed. Upon hearing that the Spanish Armada had sunk as it was on its way to attack England the Queen was so pleased with the news that she ordered an additional roast goose. Englanders were so accustomed to roast goose being associated to celebrations and that was what they would have celebrated with had the New Colony been full of wild geese. But, this was not the case and wild turkeys were much more plentiful. So, as they started a new life they also started a new tradition of serving turkey on days of celebration and giving thanks.

2.  It is tradition that says the Native Americans brought turkey to the the Pilgrims providing them food for their first Thanksgiving. Turkeys are native to the Americas. There is evidence that it was domesticated by the Native Americans.

3.  The tradition of serving Turkey comes from a letter written 22yrs after the first celebration by William Bradford "History of Plymouth Plantation". This letter sent to Edward Winslow, a known as a Pilgrim. The letter described how the governor sent "four men out Fowling". They returned not only with Turkeys, they also brought back ducks and geese.

Branford’s letter was lost during the War of Independence when the British took it way. Thankfully, was rediscovered in 1854 and the Turkey turned out to be a popular symbol of Thanksgiving Day.

Benjamin Franklin was in favor of changing the National Bird from the Bald Eagle to the Turkey.  (Ben, Ben, Ben ..... what were you thinking?!!)

4.  AND for added interest:  "Asked to write a composition entitled, 'What I'm thankful for on Thanksgiving,' one student wrote, 'I am grateful that I'm not a turkey.'"

5.  AND for yet more added interest (or amusement) - here's a blog of a :-) veggan Thanksgiving Is Tainted

6.  AND my personal favorite:  "Because it's delicious?"

Have a great Thanksgiving my Buddies!

AND because I have a sick sense of humor and found this one amusing!