The modern Thanksgiving holiday stems from a mid-19th century campaign by Sara Josepha Hale for the adoption of a national thanksgiving holiday. President Abraham Lincoln created the federal holiday in 1863 during the American Civil War. 

So how did our Thanksgiving narrative come to focus on a fantastical meal shared between colonists and American Indians? What messages did Americans hope to convey with the Thanksgiving holiday? What were some popular Thanksgiving foods of generations past? 

Most Saturdays in November, Bennett Place staff lead guided tours that explore the history & legacy of this Civil War era federal holiday. These tours include a living history componenet, preparing a 19th-century dish within the Bennett's kitchen.  

Thanksgiving themed tours offered November 1, 8, 15, and 29 at 1 p.m. Tours last approximately 1 hour.  Tour tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for senior citizens, military members/veterans, and children. Tickets must be purchased day-of the tour at our visitor center. Please note that there are no guided tours offered November 22 as the site is hosting our Old Hillsborough Road Market.

Tour schedule subject to cancellation due to weather or staffing. Any changes will be posted on our social media. Visitors may call our site to confirm tour offerings.