Thanksgiving’s first dairy guest

English Puritan farmers brought dairy animals and dairy farming practices to North America in the 17th century. As the first-ever dairymen to arrive in what is now the United States (Native American tribes did not have nor, therefore, milk, domesticated animals), the pilgrims set the stage for dairy’s own Manifest Destiny.

The Mayflower herself included a shipment of Old World cheese in 1620. Since the meal known as “the first Thanksgiving” shared by the Wampanoag Indians and the pilgrims took place in 1621, this means cheese (of some variety or another) was almost indisputably an original fourth Thursday guest. In fact, it may have been a staple of their diet at large.

According to Amish cheesemakers at Simply Cheese, “Cheddar cheese, with its long shelf life, became particularly popular among colonists. This firm, flavorful cheese was enjoyed throughout the year, but it was especially cherished during the autumn months as part of Thanksgiving feasts. It was one of the many ways they celebrated the abundance of the harvest season.”

Sound familiar? We challenge you to find a modern Thanksgiving spread that doesn’t include cheese. (Lactose intolerant families don’t count!)

If you’re on the prowl for quality fromage to add to your own feast, look no further than Hoard’s Dairyman Farm Creamery. Whether you plan to use it in your favorite recipe or serve it in slices, our selection of pure Guernsey milk cheeses is hard to beat: our original St. Saviour took home a silver medal at the 2024 World Cheese Awards in Portugal!

Celebrate with historical dairy pride this year, and enjoy the fondue-like swirl that is the holiday season.