Thanksgiving

NORTHVILLIANS,

It was great to see many of you at the Lighted Holiday Parade last weekend. The parade was unbelievably memorable with folks 6 deep on either side of the downtown Streets and thousands along its route. The Northville Chorale sang Holiday Carols, getting us ready to light the community Christmas tree in Town Square. Then we gave Santa (who rode into Town on a Bright Red Fire Truck) the keys to the city during a Proclamation. Chamber Director Doug Wallace coordinated an outstanding parade with 64 floats and entries … many people said it was the best Lighted Parade yet.  After the tree lighting, I was privileged to kick off the free “Social Bones” concert (sponsored by the Northville Winery) at the Marquis Theatre. Hundreds were rocking out the night there.

Additionally, I ran into a great number of Northvillians all weekend walking around town during the “Holiday Greens Sale.”

As we prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, it is truly up to all of us to slow down and reflect on all for which we are thankful. Like many, I am sincerely grateful for family & friends. Thanksgiving (as you know) is a national holiday and is even celebrated on various dates outside the U.S. It began as a day of giving thanks for the blessings of the harvest. Thanksgiving has historical roots in religious & cultural traditions and has long been celebrated as a secular holiday as well.

Thanksgivings of Yesteryear in The Ville:

• 1800’s – Starting in the late 1800s, large community Thanksgiving gatherings took place yearly at Northville’s historic meeting place (the Princess Rink – Dunlap/Center area), including a night-before gala event with food & live music for Northvillians and those from all the surrounding communities.
   
• 1800’s to early 1900’s – Historically, ecumenical Thanksgiving Eve services were held with many of the local churches gathering together, helping to grow a holiday spirit of cooperation and support for those in need in the community… similar to the present-day Thanksgiving Meal served at the First United Methodist Church, Northville.
   
• From 1800’s till Today – Thanksgiving baskets & meals for those less fortunate have always been part of the holiday locally. Many organizations such as the Masons, Eagles, VFW, American Legion, Rotary, Woman’s Club, and others continue this tradition to this day.
   
• Early 1900s – Many Thanksgiving activities took place including the traditional Thanksgiving community football game (Athletic Park where Northville Downs is today & at Cass Benton Park earlier). Events also occurred at the library, sponsored by the Woman’s Club with locals giving remembrances of Thanksgivings past.
   
• 1932 – According to The Northville Record, it was an extraordinarily hard year economically for the Village. City Council rose to the occasion and combined forces with the American Legion, St. Vincent de Paul Society, and many other local organizations to form a Local Support Committee so all those in the community could have an enjoyable Thanksgiving.
   
• 1972 – The Record published a proclamation from Mayor Allen. It read, in part: “I, the Mayor of Northville, do hereby proclaim November 23rd as a time for sincere thanksgiving for the people of our community.“

Over 50 years later, I concur with Mayor Allen, giving my heartfelt wishes to all Northvillians for a weekend full of family, fellowship and food. Please have a safe, restful & enjoyable holiday.

If you are looking for a welcoming place to gather, I will see you with the rest of my family at the community Thanksgiving event at the Methodist Church (777 8 Mile), Thursday, 12:00 – 2:00pm enjoying some Turkey and a Lion’s game on the screen. Let’s all share our time & talents with those in need around us, especially during this holiday weekend. 

Keep that Northville Thanksgiving Faith!

Brian Turnbull
Mayor – Northville
BTurnbull@ci.northville.mi.us / 248.505.6849

(Reach out to me anytime or forward this communication to others interested.)

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