Learn the True Story of the First Thanksgiving

May Memorial Church, Wednesday, November 17, 6:00 p.m.

Have you ever been curious about The First Thanksgiving in America? Widespread beliefs are that our Thanksgiving celebration was started by the Pilgrims in Massachusetts; however, there may be more to the story of how we came to celebrate this uniquely American custom of giving thanks for our families and many blessings in November.  Where did it really begin, how did it become a treasured American celebration, who was responsible for it becoming an American holiday, when did it really start?  The program on The First Thanksgiving in America will address all of these questions and perhaps enrich your knowledge of the place that Virginia holds in our American history.

Our presenter for this wonderful evening is Helen Raidabaugh, who is married with two grown children and three grandchildren and is presently residing in Goochland County.  Helen is a graduate of Henrico County Schools, receiving a Bachelor of Science as well as a Master of Education degree from Virginia Commonwealth University.

 She was an Elementary, Middle and High School Teacher in Henrico County Schools until retirement in 2002.  Upon retirement from teaching, being a docent at Monticello in Charlottesville for one year as well as a docent at Maymont Mansion in Richmond for eighteen years became the new pastime.  Interest in history also led to becoming a member of the Virginia Thanksgiving Festival Board at Berkeley Plantation.