INFLATABLE MASS-PRODUCED holiday décor abounds. So when I saw an over-sized handcrafted turkey positioned outside a small town museum, I took notice. And stopped to photograph it.
I appreciate that someone took the time to create this turkey with plywood, paint and a single large bale. The turkey truly grabs your attention on the west end of Henderson, just below the hill from the Sibley County Historical Society and Museum.
Anyone passing by on Minnesota State Highway 19, a main thoroughfare that runs right through the heart of this Minnesota River town, will certainly notice the colorful lone turkey. And, if they’re like me, they’ll even stop for photos and a closer look.
The turkey and “Happy Thanksgiving from Henderson Minn!”, complete with red hearts dotting the “i’s” and marking the exclamation point, made me smile. And that’s a good thing. I appreciate things that make me smile.
During this Thanksgiving week, I hope you find many reasons to smile as you consider all that is good and wonderful in your life—friends, family, community.. Pause to give thanks for your many blessings from food to health to shelter to freedom.
And if you see a handcrafted holiday decoration like Henderson’s turkey, take notice, appreciate and give thanks for the kind-hearted soul who shared their talents and made you smile.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
© Copyright 2024 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
I love all of the thought and work that went into that turkey, it says something about the person who created it. I read that the two nationally pardoned turkeys this year were from Minnesota,Peach and Blossom.
Audrey,
Henderson has done that turkey for a number of years. I believe it is one of my classmates from Henderson that makes sure it gets put up every year. She also does a lot to keep the town decorated with flowers and other things.
In Iowa, I’ve seen hay rolls done up as giant spiders. I like the turkey better.
Audrey, did you hear yesterday that the turkeys President Biden pardoned were from Northfield? Kyle.
A very clever turkey! I love the house in the background too! Happy Thanksgiving Audrey.
Happy Thanksgiving! Love the big bale turkey from Henderson, MN.
Happy Thanksgiving!
the country girl loves art made from round bails of hay!
I understand. Actually, cornstalks were used in this bale.