As Thanksgiving approaches, we have much to be thankful for here at the National Archives. We are especially grateful for the records we hold in trust, and for our Catalog that allows us to share these records with you. We are also thankful for our colleagues, who inspired us with this idea to create a Thanksgiving meal through our records!

As you gather around the table this holiday season, we hope you find inspiration from these historic recipes and photographs found in the National Archives. Enjoy!

Be sure to offer a toast to your special guests!

Need some inspiration? Try this fancy Manhattan Cocktail, or use this chart to construct the perfect cocktail.

This turkey is looking good! (And of course you can't forget the gravy.)

Need a side dish? The Republican Congressional Cook Book, ca. 1962 is filled with recipes that would be perfect for your Thanksgiving table. Why don’t you try the Georgia Sweet Potato Souffle?

Save room for dessert! You’re sure to please everyone with this selection of pies.

But if you only have time to make one, we recommend Nancy Reagan’s Pumpkin Pecan Pie recipe.

Browse more recipes in our Catalog. Have you tried any of these recipes? Let us know how they turned out! Email us at catalog@nara.gov