As the crisp autumn air signals the approach of Thanksgiving, families across the nation begin planning their annual feasts. Among the classic dishes and family recipes, one tradition stands out: the blue plate Thanksgiving dinner. This unique meal, served on vintage blue plates, is more than just a visual delight; it's a testament to history, family, and the spirit of Thanksgiving.
Blue plate dinners originated in the early 20th century when the U.S. government launched a campaign to promote the use of blue plates as a symbol of patriotism. The campaign, led by President Hoover's wife, Lou Henry Hoover, encouraged Americans to use their blue dishes on Thanksgiving to show national unity. Today, this tradition continues, adding a touch of nostalgia and history to the modern Thanksgiving table.
The History Behind the Blue Plate Dinner
In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, the Hoover administration sought to boost national morale. Lou Hoover, an avid supporter of domestic arts and crafts, proposed the idea of a national "Blue Day" to celebrate American unity and patriotism. The campaign encouraged Americans to use their blue dishes, linens, and other decorative items to create a unified aesthetic across the country.
While the original Blue Day was not specifically tied to Thanksgiving, the idea of using blue dishes for a special meal resonated with Americans. Over time, the tradition evolved into the blue plate Thanksgiving dinner we know today, a symbol of both patriotism and family heritage.
The Significance of the Color Blue
The color blue was chosen for its association with trust, stability, and calmness. In the context of Thanksgiving, these qualities represent the unity, peace, and gratitude that the holiday embodies. The blue plates also serve as a visual reminder of the vast, blue American sky, symbolizing the boundless opportunities and freedoms that our country offers.
Moreover, blue has been a popular color in American pottery and ceramics since the colonial era. Many vintage blue plates used for Thanksgiving dinners today are heirlooms passed down through generations, each with its own story and history.
Blue Plate Dinner Traditions Today
Today, blue plate dinners are a beloved tradition in many families. Some serve their entire Thanksgiving meal on blue dishes, while others use them for specific dishes like the turkey, stuffing, or cranberry sauce. Some families even collect vintage blue plates throughout the year, adding to their collection in anticipation of the next Thanksgiving.
Regardless of how they incorporate blue plates into their Thanksgiving dinner, these families are carrying on a rich tradition that spans nearly a century. Each blue plate tells a story, whether it's of a family's history or the broader narrative of American unity and patriotism.
Setting the Table: Blue Plates and Thanksgiving Decor
Blue plates are just the beginning when it comes to setting a Thanksgiving table with a patriotic flair. Many families incorporate other blue elements into their decor, creating a cohesive and visually striking tablescape.
Blue tablecloths, runners, or placemats provide a base for the blue plates, while blue glassware and silverware add a touch of elegance. Blue flowers, such as cornflowers or delphiniums, can be used in centerpieces or as individual place settings. Even the candles and napkin rings can be blue to complete the look.
Mixing and Matching Blue Plates
One of the joys of collecting vintage blue plates is the opportunity to mix and match different patterns and styles. While some families prefer a uniform look, others embrace the eclectic charm of a table set with a variety of blue plates.
To create a cohesive look when mixing and matching, consider using a common element such as the color blue, a similar glaze, or a consistent shape. This will help tie the different plates together, creating a harmonious tablescape despite the variety of patterns.
Blue Plate Dinner Ideas for a Modern Thanksgiving
While the blue plate dinner is a traditional affair, there's no reason why it can't be adapted for a modern Thanksgiving. For a fresh take on the classic blue plate dinner, consider these ideas:
- Serve the meal on a mix of vintage and modern blue plates for a blend of old and new.
- Use blue plates for a buffet-style meal, allowing guests to serve themselves and choose their own seating.
- Create a blue and white color scheme for a clean, modern look that still honors the tradition.
- Incorporate blue into the food itself, such as with blue cheese in a stuffing or blue potatoes as a side dish.
As you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, surrounded by the familiar faces of loved ones and the comforting sight of blue plates, take a moment to appreciate the history and meaning behind this cherished tradition. And as you pass the turkey and the stuffing, the cranberry sauce and the pie, remember the unity and gratitude that the blue plate dinner represents, not just for our country, but for our families and our shared heritage.