Special Event: Thanksgiving Proclamation

Following a resolution of Congress on October 3, 1789, President George Washington proclaimed Thursday, November 26, 1789, a day of “public thanksgiving and prayer” devoted to “the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be.” In setting aside a day for Thanksgiving, Washington established a non-sectarian tone for these devotions. It stressed political, moral, and intellectual blessings that make self-government possible and personal and national repentance. Hear from President Washington on the 237th anniversary of this day of Thanksgiving.