Texas Roots of Thanksgiving: The Story of San Elizario
Did you know the first Thanksgiving celebration on American soil took place in the Lone Star State? The first Texas Thanksgiving happened in 1598 near present-day San Elizario, Texas, a full 23 years before the Pilgrims' famous feast.
Did you know the first Thanksgiving celebration on American soil took place in the Lone Star State?
The First Thanksgiving in San Elizario, Texas
The first Texas Thanksgiving happened in 1598 near present-day San Elizario, Texas, a full 23 years before the Pilgrims' famous feast. This groundbreaking event was led by Spanish explorer Don Juan de Oñate, who had embarked on a perilous expedition from Mexico to settle the unexplored territory of Nuevo Mexico.
After a grueling journey across the Chihuahuan Desert, Oñate's party of around 500 men, women, and children, along with 7,000 head of cattle, finally reached the banks of the Rio Grande. Exhausted, starving, and thirsty, the settlers were overjoyed to find respite at last.
A Day of Gratitude and Celebration
On April 30, 1598, Oñate declared a day of thanksgiving to celebrate their successful desert crossing and give thanks to God. The celebration included:
- A feast shared with members of the local Mansos tribe.
- Game provided by the Spaniards and fish from the Mansos.
- A reading of "La Toma" by Oñate, claiming the territory for Spain
- The first recorded theatrical performance in America, a play by Captain Marcos Farfán de los Godos.
Historical Significance
This event marked a pivotal moment in American history. By reading "La Toma," Oñate officially opened the American Southwest to European settlement, forever changing the course of history in the region.
Modern Commemoration
Today, you can experience this rich history firsthand. For the past 20 years, the El Paso Mission Trail Association has conducted an annual historical reenactment of the event. This celebration, recognized by the Texas House in 2006, offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the birth of Thanksgiving in America. It's a chance to not only learn about our state's pivotal role in American history but also to reflect on the true spirit of Thanksgiving - gratitude, community, and cultural exchange.
As you plan your Texas heritage travels, consider visiting San Elizario to participate in this remarkable tradition. There's also the upcoming Luminaria Festival & Posada Celebration Saturday, December 14 at 4:00pm. This event will be filled with food, a fiesta and a tree lighting at the end of the evening.
The Smithsonian Comes To San Elizario!
San Elizario will also be hosting the Museum on Main Street exhibit Crossroads: Rural Change in America from May 3rd to June 15th 2025. Just another great reason to make the journey out West and discover more Texas Heritage!