Ancient Ceremonies and Modern Struggles of the Humble Turkey
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Resources & Recommendations
Organizations & Institutions
- Mount Vernon - Historically, pardoned turkeys were sent here, but modern turkeys are now too large for the site.
- Veterinary or Agriculture College - Pardoned turkeys are now typically sent to these institutions where they can be cared for by professionals.
People Mentioned
- Ronald Reagan - The first U.S. president to use the term "pardon" for a turkey in 1987.
- Abraham Lincoln - A popular, though possibly apocryphal, story attributes the origin of the turkey pardon tradition to him in 1863.
- Tad Lincoln - Abraham Lincoln's son, who, according to a popular story, petitioned his father to spare a turkey named Jack.
- Mario Batali - Mentioned by the host as an example of a chef, in the context of fattening up a turkey.
Websites & Online Resources
- Gastro Obscura - Sam O'Brien is an editor here, and the article celebrating the humble turkey is linked in the episode description.