I'll let George, do the talking :cool2:
It was a longstanding tradition in colonial Massachusetts for the governor to declare a day of thanksgiving. On November 4, 1775, after nearly 7 months of war with Great Britain, and the authority of the Royal Governor no longer recognized, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress issued a proclamation declaring that November 23 should be a day of thanksgiving.
On November 18, General Washington issued the following order to the Continental Army besieging Boston.
Head Quarters, Cambridge, Novr 18th 1775
Parole: Amboy
Countersign: Bristol
The Honorable the Legislature of this Colony having thought fit to set apart Thursday the 23rd of November Instant, as a day of public thanksgiving "to offer up our praises, and prayers, to Almighty God, the Source and Benevolent Bestower of all good; That he would be pleased graciously to continue, to smile upon our Endeavours, to restore peace, preserve our Rights, and Privileges, to the latest posterity; prosper the American Arms, preserve and strengthen the Harmony of the United Colonies, and avert the Calamities of a civil war." The General therefore commands, that day to be observed with all the Solemnity directed by the Legislative Proclamation, and all Officers, Soldiers & others, are hereby directed, with the most unfeigned Devotion, to obey the same.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ul3IytP.jpg)
Courtesy of Minute Man National Historical Park
Source: https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-02-02-0362 (https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-02-02-0362)
Happy Thanksgiving All!
Happy Thanksgiving!