“Over the River and Through the Wood” is mostly associated with Christmas. But it was originally a Thanksgiving poem written in 1844 by one of the strongest abolitionist advocates and women’s rights supporters of the 19th century, Lydia Maria Child (1802-1880). Her grandparents' house made famous in this song was restored by Tufts University in 1976 and stands near the Mystic River on South Street, in Medford, Massachusetts.
Lydia Maria Child also supported native American rights, opposed colonialism, and all forms of imperialistic behavior. In other words, she was way ahead of her times. And she proved it in this song that made her famous that appeared first in a book of poetry for children. “Over the River and Through the Woods” today is associated with Christmas, and for good reason. I…