What do turkeys named Marshmallow, Yams, Stars, Stripes, and Gravy have in common? They have all lived a life of comfort after being pardoned by the President of the United States in a special White House ceremony.
The origin of this Thanksgiving tradition is unclear but some say it started when President Abraham Lincoln pardoned his son Tad’s pet turkey.
The president’s pardon isn’t the only way for turkeys to avoid the Thanksgiving table.
Farm Sanctuary, with farm animal shelters in Orland, Calif., and Watkins Glen, N.Y., will host its “Thanksgiving Celebration FOR the turkeys.” On November 18, the two farms will celebrate with festivities including vegan meals, tours of the farms, guest presentations, and their famous turkey feeding ceremony.
Rescued turkeys enjoy a special meal composed of such goodies as squash, lettuce, cranberries, and pumpkin pie.
In 2005, actress Loretta Swit was a special guest at the Orland feast making turkey friends as she served the guests of honor the pumpkin pie.
Want to save a turkey? Farm Sanctuary offers their Adopt-a Turkey Project. You can sponsor a turkey that lives at their New York or California shelter for $20. Adopters receive a color photograph of their turkey, an adoption certificate, and a one-year subscription to Farm Sanctuary’s quarterly newsletter. The fee pays for feed, bedding, and medical care for the turkeys. For more information, visit www.AdoptATurkey.org.
