November 25, 2025
The Turkey Note
By Kari Smith
What is the connection between the Turkey Note and Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving traces back to the 1621 harvest feast shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people in Plymouth, Massachusetts. While historical records don’t explicitly confirm turkey as the centerpiece of that first feast, wild fowl were mentioned, and turkeys were abundant in the region. By the 19th century, turkey had become a staple of Thanksgiving, thanks to its availability and cultural significance as a symbol of abundance.
President Abraham Lincoln formalized Thanksgiving as a national holiday in 1863, and by the early 20th century, the turkey was firmly the dish of choice. As families gathered around the table, traditions like giving thanks, sharing stories, and passing down recipes became integral to the holiday’s identity. It’s within this context of personal expression and gratitude that turkey notes began to emerge.
What Are Turkey Notes?
Turkey notes are small messages, often handwritten or printed at Thanksgiving celebrations. They might be placed on the table, tucked into napkins, or even attached to the turkey itself. The content varies widely: some notes express gratitude for loved ones or blessings, others share lighthearted jokes or riddles about turkeys, and some serve as place cards with personalized messages for guests. The tradition is informal and flexible, shaped by the creativity of the host or family. Some of my favorites:
From the Turkey’s point of view:
- “I’m stuffed, and soon you will be too! Happy Thanksgiving!”
- “Please carve me with care—I worked hard to look this good.”
- “I gave my all for this meal. You’re welcome.”
Pun-tastic Notes:
- “Gobble till you wobble!”
- “Don’t let these drumsticks pass you by!”
- “Wattle I do without you at this table?”
Thanksgiving Shenanigans:
- “Eat me quick before Aunt Linda starts her speech again.”
- “Warning: This turkey may cause a food coma.”
- “Gravy train’s coming—grab a plate!”
Sassy Turkey Vibes:
- “I’m the real star here, not the mashed potatoes.”
- “Pardoned by the president? Nah, I’m here for the glory.”
- “Baked to perfection, just like your family drama.”
The Rise of Turkey Notes
The concept of turkey notes began to take shape in the late 20th century, particularly as families sought to make Thanksgiving more interactive and memorable. The 1980s and 1990s saw a surge in personalized holiday traditions, driven by a growing emphasis on family bonding. Craft movements, popularized through magazines and early television shows, encouraged hosts to add unique touches to their celebrations, from handmade decorations to themed activities.
The rise of social media in the 2000s and 2010s further amplified the tradition. Photos of turkey notes, often adorned with turkey-themed drawings or calligraphy, began appearing on platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. Blogs and parenting websites shared templates and ideas, encouraging families to incorporate notes into their Thanksgiving tablescapes. The trend resonated because it was simple, inexpensive, and adaptable to any gathering, whether a formal dinner or a casual potluck.
Modern Variations and Traditions
Today, turkey notes take many forms. Some families use them as place cards, with each guest’s name and a personalized message. Others create “gratitude trees,” where notes are hung like ornaments, or scatter notes around the table for guests to read aloud. Schools and community groups have adopted the practice, using turkey notes as a craft activity to teach children about gratitude or history.
Digital versions have also emerged, with printable templates available online, often featuring turkey illustrations or festive borders. However, the handwritten note remains the heart of the tradition, valued for its personal touch.
Some families have even made turkey notes an annual ritual, saving them as keepsakes to revisit in future years.
