Thanksgiving Tradition: How Turkey Pardoning Became a White House Staple

The tradition of pardoning turkeys during Thanksgiving reportedly dates back to the Civil War when President Abraham Lincoln spared a turkey named “Jack” at the request of his son, Tad. Lincoln’s 1863 act of clemency, as documented by reporter Noah Brooks in 1865, is believed to have inspired this lighthearted custom.

The modern tradition, however, took shape in 1947 when President Harry Truman received Thanksgiving turkeys from the National Turkey Federation. It was officially established in 1989 when President George H.W. Bush granted the first formal presidential pardon to a turkey, declaring, “This fine tom turkey will not end up on anyone’s dinner table.”

2024 Presidential Turkey Pardon

On November 25, President Joe Biden pardoned two turkeys, Peach and Blossom, in the annual Thanksgiving event at the White House. The turkeys, named after the Delaware state flower symbolizing resilience, were presented by John Zimmerman, president of the National Turkey Federation, who raised them on a Minnesota farm.

Addressing a crowd of 2,500 on the South Lawn, Biden reflected on his decades-long career and expressed gratitude during his final holiday season as president. “This event marks the start of the holiday season here in Washington. It’s been the honor of my life, and I am forever thankful,” he said.

What Happens to Pardoned Turkeys?

Each year, the president pardons one or two turkeys, who then retire to farms for a life of leisure. This year, Peach and Blossom will reside at Farmamerica, an interactive agricultural center in Minnesota.

The turkey pardon tradition continues as a symbolic gesture of goodwill, adding a touch of humor and warmth to the Thanksgiving celebrations.