Thanksgiving has come and gone this year, but conversations about its history and meaning remain more relevant than ever—especially as Holliston celebrates its 300th Anniversary. While our town marks this milestone with pride, it’s crucial to reflect on the fact that these celebrations recognize only Holliston’s post-colonial history.
The land we now call Holliston was part of the ancestral territory of the Nipmuc people, whose name means “freshwater people.” Their territory, known as Nipnet, spanned much of present-day Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. The Nipmuc lived in interconnected villages and practiced sustainable land stewardship rooted in cultural and spiritual beliefs. They viewed land as a living being and developed land management practices over thousands of years, adapting to environmental changes with a profound understanding of sustainability.
However, the arrival of European settlers marked the beginning of devastating changes for the Nipmuc people. From the introduction of diseases that caused widespread mortality to the dispossession of their lands and forced assimilation into “praying towns” such as Hassanamesit (now Grafton) and Natick, colonial policies systematically dismantled their way of life. The Knowing Nipmuc webinar series provides an in-depth exploration of these histories, including the profound losses experienced during events like King Philip’s War.
The popularized version of Thanksgiving—a harmonious meal between Pilgrims and Indigenous people—misrepresents the historical context and perpetuates false narratives. The Indigeneity Program at Bioneers provides valuable insights into the origins of the holiday, highlighting the colonial violence and displacement experienced by Indigenous peoples. On their blog, Bioneers emphasizes the importance of acknowledging these truths and moving away from sanitized stories. They suggest supporting Indigenous-led organizations and educational initiatives that work to restore cultural knowledge and land stewardship.
Recognizing these truths requires us to think critically about whose stories are told—and whose are left out—as we celebrate our town’s 300-year history. Many of these narratives remain untold or misrepresented in public discourse. By integrating Nipmuc history into our local celebrations and educational curricula, we can take a step toward correcting these omissions and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared history.
As we reflect on our town’s history, let’s expand the narrative to include the land’s full story. The town’s history didn’t begin with settlers—it began with the Nipmuc people and their deep connection to this land. By including these stories in our celebrations and embracing decolonizing efforts, we can create a richer, more honest narrative for future generations.
Decolonizing Thanksgiving—and Holliston’s 300th Anniversary—is not about erasing traditions or diminishing pride in our community. It’s about adding depth, fostering inclusion, and honoring the resilience and contributions of Indigenous peoples. Together, we can take steps toward a more just and equitable future.