This song, along with the instrumental version, sheet music, and extension activities, is available on Barbara Speicher's ""Learning American History by Song"
Pilgrims left their homeland on the Mayflower ship
From the Church of England they wanted to split
Some sought grand adventure and some needed work
They were all determined and from danger did not shirk
Chorus
First Thanksgiving, oh praises give voice
First Thanksgiving, oh people rejoice
First Thanksgiving, oh praises give voice
First Thanksgiving, oh people rejoice
Storms made them seasick and the main beam cracked
Tightly crowded they ate salt horse and hardtack
They reached Plymouth Rock fulfilling all their dreams
But then winter came with bitter cold and suffering
Chorus
Food was scarce and many died, how could they stay alive
Friendly Wampanoags came and helped them to survive
Squanto taught the Pilgrims to grow corn, to hunt and fish
Thanks to these fine Indians they had a good harvest
Chorus
Feasting altogether they thanked God for ev’rything
This great celebration was the first Thanksgiving
Like the Pilgrims we should be so grateful for this day
We have homes and food a-plenty so much more than they
Chorus
Oh people rejoice…give thanks
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See more of our Social Studies, Thanksgiving, Pilgrims, School Concert and Native American Song Lyrics
