Fact is, the Second Continental Congress selected the Bald Eagle as the U. S. National Symbol on June 20, 1782. Known for strength and independence, the majestic, bold and faithful birds are a symbol of determination.
According to reported legend and lore, Ben Franklin favored the turkey as the national bird compared to the bald eagle which was preferred by Thomas Jefferson.
In a letter written to his daughter, Sally, in 1784, Franklin wrote, “For my own part I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen as the Representative of our Country. He is a Bird of bad moral Character […] in Truth the Turkey is in Comparison a much more respectable Bird, and withal a true original Native of America.”
Furthermore, myth has it that the “Tom Turkey” was given its name by Franklin. When the turkey lost the national ranking to the bald eagle by one vote, Franklin nicknamed the male turkey after Thomas Jefferson – or so the story goes.
Now it’s Turkey Time
Many families are grateful the traditional Thanksgiving turkey is the biggest food item purchased all year. Few meals are more memorable than the Thanksgiving feast, so for the sake of abundance, always plan on one pound of raw turkey for each guest. That way, you’ll have plenty of turkey for dinner; plus, plenty of leftovers. Also be mindful that most roasting pans and conventional ovens cannot handle more than a 30-pound turkey.
Wild turkeys oftentimes are spotted in woodlands of local forest preserves, along Herrick Road and in neighborhoods near Springbrook.
Other families report sighting bald eagles soaring in DuPage and Will counties—and two magnificently created by a chainsaw artist in the 12-foot stump of an old oak tree in Naperville.
