Countryside Community Church - Joy Luke Club

Last night we read the present Nebraska Governor’s Thanksgiving Proclamation at Countryside’s Thanksgiving Eve service.  I like the one written by Nebraska Governor Robert W. Furnas in 1874 even better.  He wrote it during a time of famine in Nebraska, and it was even published in the New York Times.  Here’s Gov. Furnas’ proclamation, with wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!

THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION

By the Governor of the State of Nebraska:

In conformity with the proclamation of the President of the United States, respect for a custom of our forefathers, and in reverential acknowledgment of dependence upon Divine Providence, I do hereby recommend that Thursday, the 26th of November, 1874, be observed as a day of prayer and supplication; that upon that day the people of this State abstain, as far as practicable, from their usual avocations, and observe the day in a manner becoming our surroundings.  And I entreat of all those endowed with substantial gifts of prosperity a kindly remembrance of those in the abodes of want.  Let the accustomed gatherings “be made joyous by the exercise of that cheerful bounty which blesses the receiver adn giver alike, and which is always an offering peculiarly acceptable to Him who holds the lowly in the solicitude of His infinite care.”

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the State.

Done in the City of Lincoln, this 27th day of October, A.D. 1874, and of the independence of the United States the ninety-ninth, and of this State the eighth.

By the Governor: ROBERT W. FURNAS

JOHN J. GOSPER, Secretary of State

Published: November 12, 1874, The New York Times