Tales of Historical FiguresAbraham Lincoln Anecdotes

Lincoln and the Turkey

President Lincoln grants a historic pardon to a turkey at his son Tad's emotional request.

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Story Summary

Discover the heartwarming tale of Lincoln and the Turkey, where President Abraham Lincoln issued a pardon to save his son Tad's beloved pet bird from dinner.

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.

The Moral

Compassion and mercy are virtues that should never be ignored, regardless of how busy or important one's responsibilities may be.

“He’s a good turkey, and I don’t want him killed.”

Fun Fact

Although we associate this story with Thanksgiving today, the original incident involving Jack the turkey actually occurred during the Christmas season of 1863.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

What happened to Jack the turkey after he was pardoned?

Jack remained a pet at the White House. He reportedly followed Tad around the grounds and was even present during the 1864 election when Lincoln joked about the bird's right to vote.

Why did Tad Lincoln want to save the turkey?

Tad had befriended the turkey and treated it as a pet rather than livestock. To him, the bird was a companion with a personality, making the idea of eating it unthinkable.