Jeanne Benedict
Celebrations Expert
Celebrations Expert
Surprisingly, there is no real evidence of turkey being served at the first Thanksgiving feasts in the early 17th century. Apparently, "turkey" was the generic name to describe all fowl. Venison pops up in many historical accounts of the holiday as well as corn, boiled pumpkin, berries, and, possibly shellfish.
Most still incorporate pumpkins in the traditional pie and berries in the form of cranberry sauce with their modern holiday meal.