Historical Thanksgiving

Original 1863 illustration by Thomas Nast of "Thanksgiving Day, 1863." The image shows scenes of importance to this critical period in our Nation's History. The image show a nation in earnest prayer. Our founding fathers, our political leaders, our military leaders, emancipated slaves, and the destitute are all seen lifting their prayers before God. In the center, we see a dramatic image of Columbia (Lady Liberty) kneeling in prayer. This is a touching illustration, and an important reminder of the critical role that prayer played in the history of our Nation.