In late 1863, a live turkey was sent to the White House to be prepared for the Lincoln family's holiday feast. Young Tad Lincoln, the President's son, quickly grew fond of the bird, naming him 'Jack' and teaching him to follow him around the garden. When the time came for the cook to prepare the dinner, Tad was horrified. He burst into a cabinet meeting, tearfully pleading with his father to intervene. Abraham Lincoln, amidst the heavy burdens of the Civil War, looked at his son’s grieving face and chose mercy. He took a piece of stationery and wrote a formal reprieve for the bird. Tad rushed to the kitchen with the document, triumphantly saving his friend. Jack lived on as a pet, even appearing at the White House polling place during the 1864 election, where the President jokingly asked if the turkey was old enough to vote.
Compassion and mercy are virtues that should never be ignored, regardless of how busy or important one's responsibilities may be.
Questions about this story
What is the moral of Lincoln and the Turkey?
The story emphasizes empathy and the importance of listening to the pleas of the innocent. It shows that even a leader burdened by war can find room for a small act of kindness.
Is the story of Lincoln pardoning a turkey true?
Yes, historical accounts from White House reporters like Noah Brooks document that Tad Lincoln successfully pleaded for the life of a turkey named Jack in 1863. It is a well-regarded historical anecdote.
Did Abraham Lincoln start the official turkey pardon tradition?
While he didn't establish it as an annual formal ceremony, his reprieve for Jack is widely cited as the first recorded instance of a president sparing a holiday turkey. The official annual tradition began much later.
Who was Tad Lincoln?
Thomas 'Tad' Lincoln was the youngest son of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln. He was known for his playful, energetic personality and his very close bond with his father during the White House years.
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Good night.
