Thanksgiving at the Cabin: Relive Pioneer Culinary Traditions at Forest Glen Preserve

With fall in full swing, many might be daydreaming of pumpkin spice lattes and warm apple pies. But in Nov., visitors to the Forest Glen Preserve will get a taste of how pioneers celebrated the season, long before the comforts of modern kitchens.

On November 5, from 1 to 4 p.m., the Forest Glen Preserve will host “Thanksgiving at the Cabin,” a unique event that will transport attendees back to open fires and Dutch ovens. Taking place at the Pioneer Homestead Cabin, enthusiasts of history and gastronomy alike can watch as demonstrators recreate the authentic methods pioneers would have used to prepare their festive feasts.

While modern Thanksgiving tables predominantly feature turkey or chicken, settlers of yore had a wider variety of game birds on their plates, including blackbirds, grouse, duck, and pigeon. Apples were another staple, either dried, turned into cider, or baked. And speaking of cider, visitors can learn how cider stored in oak barrels was the go-to drink of the 1700s and 1800s.

Though cranberries might not have been a staple in a midwestern farm, they were cherished by settlers along the East Coast. And as for sweeteners? Forget refined sugars. The sap of the maple tree reigned supreme, with Forest Glen Syrup, tapped and bottled on-site, being used for this very demonstration.

In addition to witnessing these live cooking demonstrations, attendees will also have the opportunity to sample some of the foods. However, it’s important to note that these samples are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Those interested in delving deep into the pioneer cooking methods can also learn about the herbs used back then. Many of these were either grown in the cabin kitchen garden or at the Bunker Hill Herb Garden at Kennekuk.

For those considering attending with a large group or seeking more information, the Forest Glen Preserve encourages calling ahead at 217-662-2142.

In an era where everything is readily available, “Thanksgiving at the Cabin” offers a delightful and educational step back in time, showcasing the traditions, resourcefulness, and flavors of a bygone era. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to savor history.