Post by Jayne Ptolemy, Manuscripts Curatorial Assistant
The William L. Clements Library sends warm Thanksgiving greetings and offers a glimpse at holidays past via our Manuscripts Division. In November 1857, William H. Ireland, Jr., sent an illustrated, lyrical letter to his friend to ensure that he would “not have a dull Thanksgiving.” In the spirit of the day, Ireland included a pen-and-ink drawing of a turkey.
 |
| William H. Ireland, Jr., ALS to M. A. W. Man[ ], 1857 November 25, Duane Norman Diedrich collection. |
Also featuring a holiday turkey, our Charles Snyder papers highlight a specifically Civil War take on the Thanksgiving holiday. Dining with a Union officer’s family for Thanksgiving dinner, Snyder commented on their fare. “We discussed to the best of our ability, a very good turkey, nicely cooked, which Mr. M. named ‘Jeff Davis.’ “
 |
| Charles E. [Snyder] ALS to Hannah [Wright], 1863 November 28, Charles Snyder papers, Schoff Civil War collection. |
Even if you opt for different culinary fare this holiday, we hope this offering of turkey from the William L. Clements Library’s Manuscript Division helps spread some Thanksgiving cheer.