The Pilgrims and their benefactors from Massasoit's tribe feasted for several days at the first Thanksgiving. It was a time of plenty, but the days before that harvest were far different. Five grains of corn was the daily ration during that desperate time. Loading

The Legend  - Five Grains of Corn

Legend says that the Pilgrims placed five grains of corn beside each plate on the first Thanksgiving Day so they wouldn't forget. The corn also reminded them of difficult days on the tiny Mayflower and of a time when there were only seven healthy colonists to care for the sick.

Some people still follow the tradition established that first Thanksgiving and use their left-over candy corn to demonstrate their thriftyness and humble beginings. They say each grain of corn has a special significance.

• The first reminds us to be thankful because the earth is good and our land is free.
• The second acknowledges Indians who befriended the Pilgrims and helped them survive their first winter.
• The third stands for our own courage and how it helps us to do great things for others and for ourselves.
• The fourth is to give thanks to the Pilgrims who came to the New World and established a land of religious freedom.
• The fifth stands for our gratitude which leads to joy. That joy leads us to a renewed commitment to family and country.

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