
In August, Stephen Hopkins issued this proclamation declaring Thursday, August 25, a day of public thanksgiving. Hopkins also declared, “I DO also hereby strictly forbid and prohibit all servile Labor, and All Sports and Pastimes to be used or practiced on said Day, as all who offend herein shall answer their Contempt at their Peril.”
This would be shocking news to us today, accustomed to celebrating the day with parades and football games, strictly forbidden in 1763. May you enjoy your day, and have much to give thanks for. At the RIHS Library, we are thankful for our collections, of which this broadside is a part, but most especially we are thankful for all our patrons and members. Your research and support make our work not just worthwhile, but possible.
Thank you, and Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at the RIHS!
~Kirsten Hammerstrom, Director of Collections