An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving

Library of Congress: "Setting the table" on Thanksgiving, Crouch Family 1940, CT.

I love the old fashioned dinner. It was common to get together after church, on Sundays, for a big family meal. Since this does not seem to be as prevalent today, a time of gathering is especially meaningful on Thanksgiving.  It reminds one of the old days and how wonderful it is to join together for a big family dinner. I have often heard comments such as, "Why don't we do this more often?"

Library of Congress: "Mrs. Crouch in the kitchen," Thanksgiving, 1940, CT.

 

It is a blessing for the family to all be together, enjoying a bountiful feast in the old family home. We would have Mother and Father, of course. There may also be Grandparents there, to the delight of all.  There would be children - young and old. There may be cousins, aunts, and uncles.  It is a wonderful time to fellowship and enjoy delicious home cooking.

 

Library of Congress: "Reading the paper, waiting for Thanksgiving Dinner," 1940 CT.

 

Someone is in the kitchen peeling potatoes. Another is helping set the table. Perhaps Grandmother is setting out the dessert table with pies and cakes. And while all the work is going on, there are times of rest to wait for the food to be ready.

 

Library of Congress: "The Children's Table at Thanksgiving." Crouch Family, 1940, CT.

 

Extra chairs are brought in from the bedrooms and living room.  A Children's table is set up for extra seating.  There is plenty of room for all the family.  We often use our best dishes and dress in our nicest clothing. We look our best to present a message of the importance of our time together on such an occasion.

 

Library of Congress: "A View into the Kitchen on Thanksgiving." Crouch Family, 1940, CT.

 

How wonderful to talk and laugh and visit while everyone is leisurely eating.  Generous platters of food are passed around.  Dessert is served to grateful relatives. All are welcome. All are loved.

 Thanksgiving is a time of old fashioned homemaking, sharing a love of home and family. It is an opportunity for the most humble prayers, for blessings received and appreciated, despite all the hard days we have endured. 

We thank Thee, Oh Lord, for your merciful kindness and goodness this Thanksgiving and always. Amen.

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives - 

Encouraging children to clean -  Nobody wants to Clean a Messy House.

Beautiful efforts that bring joy - The Company Ready Home. 

Wise Homemaking Advice from 1744 - To Earn and Not to Spend. 

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For old time encouragement in living simply on a limited income, order Mrs. White's book:

"An Old Fashioned Budget: Humble Financial Management for the Christian Housewife"

This is a slim, 77 page, paperback book.