8 Comments
User's avatar
⭠ Return to thread
TPJ (MA)'s avatar

Sorry, I should have specified the first Thanksgiving. The account of the later development of the holiday is fine, but on the first, it's the conventional mythologized story. Having numerous accounts does not guarantee accuracy; in fact, errors have long been replicated until recent decades Indians turned up and were served, but not invited; venison was the main fare, not turkey; and harmony between New Eng Indians and the English was fleeting despite some exceptions like Squanto (Tisquantum; he's not even known by his real name, and died in 1622), Massasoit, and the praying towns of eastern MA. Americans have been led to accept a sanitized history flattering to Euro Amer sensibilities.

A Cave, The Pequot War

F Jennings, The Invasion of America

K Kupperman, Indians & English

J Loewen, Lies Across America

____, Lies my Teacher told Me

N Salisbury, Manitou and Providence

____, "Squanto," in Struggle & Survival in Early Amer

Y Kawashima, Igniting King Philip's War

Expand full comment
FERN MCBRIDE (NYC)'s avatar

It is a gift to have our knowledge expand as you and Michael exchange information and provide sources. Thank you.

Expand full comment
Liz Ayer, Nyc/MA's avatar

The name Fern has a deep meaning for me now after I watched Frances McDormand play the lead character Fern in Nomadland yesterday. It’s quite a film. Everyone should see it. It was directed by a Chinese woman who has been nominated as best director for this year’s oscars. It’s about many things but mostly about one woman’s grief.

Expand full comment
FERN MCBRIDE (NYC)'s avatar

Thank you, Liz. It took me years to accept the name. I was Bonnie at summer camp. On alert to being teased, because Steve Allen, a man of many talents, and the first host of The Tonight Show, often asked male guests, 'How's your fern'? I escaped ridicule and grew up to own the name, perhaps, because I love plants, ferns included.

Expand full comment
Liz Ayer, Nyc/MA's avatar

Let’s just say it’s a timely name— I love plants and ferns too. Frances McDormand I think chose the name— I’d call it a no nonsense name.

Expand full comment
FERN MCBRIDE (NYC)'s avatar

'No nonsense' is apt in my case, too, Liz.

Expand full comment
TPJ (MA)'s avatar

Thanks Fern. Michael and I actually have a minor dispute on 1st Thanksgiving going today, but I look forward to more from him. Michael, you are a skilled phrasemaker. Write on.

Expand full comment