NOVEMBER 21, 1620

Did you know . . . The Mayflower was blown 200 miles off course after a 66-day journey through stormy seas.

The settlers had originally chartered the Speedwell for this trip, but Captain Reynolds (the owner) sabotaged the ship and in doing so, he was able to honor his contract, keep the pay, repair the leaky ship, and sell it for profit.

The story of the Mayflower Saints is a powerful testament of endurance, patience, and faith.

Over half the settlers perished until they were saved by 2 aboriginals: Squanto and Samoset, who taught them to farm and how to survive.

President George Washington declared the first public holiday on November 26, 1789 - A Day of Publick Thanksgiving.

90 years later, Canada followed by officially declaring a public Thanksgiving holiday on November 6, 1879.