Andrew Johnson Heritage Association tea takes participants back to time of Thanksgiving’s beginnings

ajha_teaAbout 45 people enjoyed a special tea hosted by the Andrew Johnson Heritage Association on Nov. 17 that provided a glimpse into the beginnings of the national Thanksgiving holiday.  Chris Small, at left, portraying Abraham Lincoln, and Dr. Taimi Olsen, portraying Sarah Hale, presented a re-creation of what may have been said between the two when they met to discuss Hale’s effort to have Thanksgiving established as a national holiday. Following the re-creation, the participants enjoyed tea and delicious treats, prepared from 19th century recipes including Lincoln’s favorite type of cake. The tea was a fundraiser for the Andrew Heritage Association with the proceeds going to support National History Day efforts in local schools. The Andrew Johnson Heritage Association plays a major roles in supporting the Museums of Tusculum College including its efforts to coordinate National History Day efforts in the region.