Skip to content
two women dressed for winter standing in togetherness.

The Spirit of Togetherness

By Noah Howard

Thanksgiving began in 1621, when the Pilgrims, weary settlers in a new and untamed land, came together with the Wampanoag Native Americans to share a harvest feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts. This gathering, set against the backdrop of autumn’s golden hues, symbolized unity and mutual support. Over two centuries later, amid the Civil War’s turmoil, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it an official holiday, calling for a national day of gratitude and reflection on the last Thursday of November to help bring together a divided nation.

Here in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, the Haudenosaunee people, also known as the Iroquois, observed a tradition of gratitude that was central to their way of life. This tradition is captured in their Thanksgiving Address, a ceremonial expression of thanks that reflects their deep connection to the natural world. Through the address, they acknowledge and honor the essential elements of life—the earth, water, air, and fire.

B/W picture of people gathered together around a dining room table in 1890
Image Courtesy of the Seward House Museum

The theme of togetherness forms a bridge between the Thanksgiving traditions of the Haudenosaunee people and Abraham Lincoln’s vision for the holiday during the Civil War. For the Haudenosaunee, their Thanksgiving Address is a unifying ritual, expressing gratitude for life and the bonds between humans, nature, and the spiritual realm. Similarly, when Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863, he envisioned it as a day to unite a fractured nation. Amidst the turmoil of the Civil War, he called on Americans to pause, reflect, and give thanks – not only for the blessings they still shared but also in hope of healing divisions and fostering a renewed sense of unity. Both traditions, though arising from different contexts, underscore the power of gratitude and shared reflection to mend divides and strengthen the ties that bind people together.

Today, Thanksgiving has evolved into a cherished family tradition that embodies the essence of gratitude and togetherness in homes across the country. The holiday is marked by gatherings that bring loved ones together, often spanning generations, around tables adorned with hearty meals. Families share turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, while recounting the blessings of the past year and exchanging laughter over shared memories. Many incorporate rituals such as expressing individual thanks before the meal, volunteering at local shelters, or watching the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The Spirit of Togetherness

In these modern traditions, the spirit of togetherness and gratitude remains at the heart of Thanksgiving. Much like the Haudenosaunee’s Thanksgiving Address or Lincoln’s vision for healing a divided nation, today’s observances emphasize the importance of connection -whether to family, community, or shared history. The holiday serves as a reminder to cherish not only the abundance of the table but also the richness of relationships, making it a living reflection of the values that have shaped its story through centuries.

Gathering with family and friends during Thanksgiving is the perfect time to plan your holiday season together. As you share stories and laughter around the table, take a moment to explore the festive events and activities that can make this season truly memorable. From holiday markets to dazzling light displays and cozy winter traditions, Cayuga County offers countless ways to celebrate.

Below is a list of seasonal happenings to inspire your holiday adventures! 

To learn more about Lincoln and Seward’s close relationship and collaborative writing please visit Auburn’s Seward House Museum 


Contact our office at info@tourcayuga.com to learn more places to go and activities this Holiday Season and visit our website www.tourcayuga.com/events for event dates and details.