Thanksgiving is a beloved holiday, but did you know it’s largely thanks to the relentless efforts of Sarah Josepha Hale? Known as the “Mother of Thanksgiving,” Hale spent 17 years tirelessly campaigning for a national day of thanks. She believed that a shared day of gratitude would bring families together and help heal a divided nation. ✨

Starting in 1846, Hale wrote letters to five U.S. presidents and published numerous articles highlighting New England Thanksgiving traditions. Her campaign finally succeeded in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln issued the first official Thanksgiving Proclamation. Hale’s determination transformed a regional celebration into a national holiday enjoyed by millions today! 🦃

But her achievements didn’t stop there. As the editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book, the most popular magazine of her time, Hale was an advocate for women’s education and helped establish Vassar College. And here’s a fun fact: she also wrote the classic nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb!” 🎶

At Squeem, we celebrate women like Hale who inspire unity, resilience, and tradition. As you gather this Thanksgiving, let’s give a nod to Hale—a woman who believed in the power of family, unity, and self-expression. Cheers! 🥂