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GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, 
 
 RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 WILLIAM S. RUSSELL, 
 it 
 
 • Come listen to my story, 
 
 Though often told before, 
 Of men who pass'd to glory, 
 
 Through toil and trial sore ; 
 Of men who did for conscience' sake, 
 
 Their native land forego, 
 And sought a home and freedom here 
 
 Two hundred years ago.* 
 
 B OSTON: 
 
 PUBLISHED FOR THE AUTHOR, BY 
 
 GEOKGE COOLIDGE, 
 
 130 Washington Street. 
 
 1846. 
 
LOAN STAC* 
 
 Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1846, by 
 
 WILLIAM S. EUSSELL, 
 
 In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of 
 Massachusetts. 
 
 Printed at Coolidge's Steam Power Printing Establishment, 
 130 Washington Street, Boston. 
 
F7i 
 
 PREFACE 
 
 The Guide to Plymouth and Kecollections of the Pilgrims is 
 respectfully submitted to the public, and is designed to present, in 
 a volume of convenient size, such historical facts connected with our 
 early history, and descriptions of interesting localities with which 
 they are connected, as are deemed of essential importance to the 
 numerous visitors, who resort to the spot rendered memorable as the 
 scene where the foundations of empire were first laid, and the prin- 
 ciples of religious and civil liberty were successfully established in 
 New England. 
 
 Much of novelty can hardly be expected in relation to subjects 
 which have engaged the attention and careful research of so many 
 distinguished visitors. The author of the present work therefore, if 
 he may hope to secure the public favor in behalf of the humble 
 labors he has ventured to undertake, is not unconscious, that he 
 must mainly rely upon the earnestness and diligence with which he 
 has sought to present the subjects considered, in a form rendering 
 them easily accessible to all inquirers after interesting memorials of 
 the pilgrims. 
 
 In preparing this work for publication, the various histories of New 
 England have been attentively consulted, and the Old Colony 
 records have supplied much which is believed to possess strong 
 attractions to public curiosity. 
 
 The earlier histories, particularly those of Bradford, Winslow, and 
 Morton, written, as they were, by able and conscientious men, 
 prominently concerned in most of the occurrences, which they 
 record, seemed to deserve the first and highest regard. The best 
 illustrations of these early writers, obtained from various sources, 
 and applied with careful discrimination, it is hoped will render the 
 
 477 
 
IV PREFACE. 
 
 main facts and events connected with the pilgrims, intelligible to 
 every reader. 
 
 No traditionary statements have been introduced into the work 
 which do not rest upon substantial grounds, deemed equally entitled 
 to credit with those of historical records. 
 
 Although this volume has been extended to more than one hun- 
 dred pages beyond the limits originally assigned to it, many readers 
 will doubtless find it insufficient to gratify their curiosity in relation 
 to the subjects of which it treats. Such readers may find the means 
 of more extended information on reference to the New England 
 Memorial, edited by Judge Davis — Winthrop's History of New 
 England, by James Savage — Holmes' Annals of America — Ban- 
 croft's History of the United States — The publications of the Mas- 
 sachusetts Historical Society — Baylies' Memoir of the Old Colony 
 — Young's Chronicles of the Pilgrims — Judge Mitchell's History 
 of Bridgewater — and Deane's History of Scituate. 
 
 Genealogical tables of the Pilgrims have been carefully prepared 
 to a considerable extent, a few only of which could be admitted into 
 the present work, but which, if deemed sufficiently interesting to 
 justify the undertaking, may hereafter appear in a different form. 
 
 The quotations from other works are designated as they occur in 
 the following pages ; but the subscriber would gratefully acknowledge 
 not only the encouragement afforded to the plan and object of this 
 work, by many valued friends, some of whom have been concerned 
 in similar labors, but also for valuable suggestions and important 
 information imparted during the progress of its accomplishment. 
 
 WILLIAM S. RUSSELL. 
 
 Plymouth, Massachusetts, October, 1846. 
 
INTRODUCTORY LINES. 
 
 Note. The Introductory Lines are designed to form a general outline of the work, and 
 briefly to describe the most interesting localities rendered memorable by their early and 
 intimate connection with the pilgrims, and some of the thoughts which a view of these 
 localities naturally suggests to every thoughtful mind. Under the successive heads of this 
 work, observing the following order, namely : Forefathers' Rock, Leyden Street, Burying 
 Hill, Captain's Hill, Clark's Island, Watson's Hill, and Friendly Indians; the reader will 
 find a more particular description of the places to which specific allusion is made in the 
 Introductory Lines, and such traditionary or historical facts respecting them, aa have come 
 to our knowledge. 
 
 In memory of our Pilgrim Sires, 
 This volume reverently aspires, 
 To guide the steps of those who trace, 
 Mementos of that noble race, 
 Who by the love of Freedom led, 
 First landed on the soil we tread. 
 Their daring and their faith sublime, 
 Are themes that through all coming time 
 Should our admiring plaudits raise, 
 And be embalmed in grateful praise. 
 By heartless Bigots basely spurned, 
 From Tyrant power resolved they turned, 
 And sought in western wilds to meet, 
 Some spot to rest their weary feet, 
 Some spot to rear their house of prayer, 
 Beyond the mitre's angry glare, 
 To fix the reign of conscience free, 
 Despite of Rome's imperial See, 
 
VI INTRODUCTORY LINES. 
 
 That Church and State no more combined, 
 
 With iron grasp the soul should bind, 
 
 Where Freedom winged might raptured roam, 
 
 And find at last her genial home. 
 
 No beacon gleamed from friendly height 
 
 To cheer for them the dreary night, 
 
 Or warn from latent reefs and sands, 
 
 That hide destruction on our strands; 
 
 No summer's sky nor genial breeze, 
 
 No verdant fields nor blooming trees, 
 
 In beauty clothed the prospect round, 
 
 All lay in frosted armour bound ; 
 
 No friends approached the water's edge, 
 
 To press the kind, the welcome pledge, 
 
 On them no eye with pleasure gazed, 
 
 For them no sparkling fire-side blazed, 
 
 Around they cast the anxious eye 
 
 Some sheltering covert to descry, 
 
 The tender children near them stand, 
 
 And grasp the Father's helping hand, 
 
 The mother spreads her circling arms, 
 
 To shield her charge from threatening harms; 
 
 While tempered age with labored thought, 
 
 And youthful arm with vigor fraught, 
 
 Combined the strength and saving power, 
 
 To meet that dark and fearful hour. 
 
 Sons of the Pilgrims, well ye may 
 High honors to your Fathers pay, 
 With rapture on their memory dwell, 
 And to your sons the story tell, 
 Of patient toils and dangers braved, 
 How God of old from danger saved, 
 Made savage hearts with kindness glow, 
 And filled with dread the daring foe, 
 Their wants supplied, and strength renewed, 
 
INTRODUCTORY LINES. Vll 
 
 With faith and hope their minds imbued, 
 Patient and calm their lot to bear, 
 Through Winter's cold and stinted fare. 
 And shielded long this matchless band, 
 To found an Empire in our land. 
 
 We HI seek the Rock, which first they trod, 
 Where round they knelt to worship God, 
 Whose guardian care had been their stay, 
 O'er ocean's rough, tempestuous way. 
 
 The murmuring Brook, whose waters sweet, 
 Induced them near to fix their seat, 
 Whose gushing banks the springs afford, 
 That eked along their scanty board ; 
 There first was heard the cheerful strain 
 Of axe and hammer, saw and plane, 
 Around their humble roofs appeared, 
 Through wasting care and labor reared. 
 And when the Evening's twilight hour 
 O'er nature held her dusky power, 
 Or gathering night with sterner reign, 
 Its mantle cast on hill and plain, 
 The watchful mother bent in prayer, 
 That God her infant charge would spare, 
 Lest savage foes with war-hoop wild, 
 Should come to wake her sleeping child, 
 Or fire the cot at midnight drear, 
 * When no strong arm of aid was near. 
 That prayer of faith and hope divine 
 That rose from nature's purest shrine, 
 Was heard by Him who never sleeps, 
 But trusting souls forever keeps. 
 
 * It is remarkable that no attack was made on Plymouth by the natives till the time of 
 Philip's War in 177C. 
 
Vlll INTRODUCTORY LINES. 
 
 Here slowly waned the weary hour, 
 When death assumed his ghastly power, 
 And White and Mullins stricken down, 
 Exchanged the Earth for Heaven's bright crown, 
 And Carver summoned from the fields, 
 His precious life untimely yields, 
 While fathers, mothers, children pine, 
 And dearest hopes and loves resign. 
 How sadly winds the funeral train, 
 With feeble step across the plain ; 
 What anguish wrings affection's breast, 
 That gave the Pilgrim to his rest ; 
 No requiem his but ocean's roar, 
 That broke in moans along the shore, 
 Or storms and waves that madly sweep 
 While gushing hearts in sorrow weep. 
 The Mayflower loosed her flapping sail, 
 Once more to woo the friendly gale, 
 Her boat more briskly glides around, 
 Cheered on by thoughts of homeward bound, 
 Parts from the shore through rippling waves 
 Seen from the height of recent graves; 
 But yet, no Pilgrim of the band 
 Would quit his consecrated land, 
 Though famine pressed, and dire disease 
 Lurked in the spring's returning breeze, 
 * And echo loud through forest rung, 
 With curses deep upon her tongue, 
 While danger stalked with flashing eye 
 To rouse the war-hoop's fearful cry, 
 His cherished hope and faith sublime, 
 Triumphant glowed in every clime. 
 
 * In allusion to the fact related by Morton, in his Memorial, that soon after the arrival of 
 the pilgrims, at Plymouth, the Indians, before they came to the English, with proffers of 
 peace, collected all the powaivs In the rountry, ■ who for three days together, in a horrid and 
 devilish manner, did curse and execrate them with their conjurations ; which assembly 
 and service they held in a dark and dismal swamp.' 
 
INTRODUCTORY LINES. IX 
 
 The mount from whence the bulwarks rose, 
 To guard their homes from threatening foes, 
 There blush the morning's earliest beams, 
 And sunset's mildly parting gleams, 
 Far off is heard the ocean's roar, 
 That once the ' germ of Empire ' bore, 
 Of honored names to Freedom dear, 
 All passing time shall still revere, 
 As bravely on the Mayflower came, 
 And caught the breeze of endless fame. 
 
 Gazing from where the Fathers sleep, 
 Along the wide expansive deep, 
 "We trace the mount which gently soars, 
 Above the sea and circling shores, 
 Where Standish, first of martial name, 
 Who dauntless won heroic fame, 
 Skillful and brave to guide the band, 
 Which firm achieved this chosen land ; 
 Was wont to gaze on every side, 
 And scan the sail of every tide, 
 That timely thought and watchful care, 
 For coming danger might prepare, 
 Prompt welcome give to friendly sail, 
 As borne by some propitious gale, 
 Or aid impart to stranger lest, 
 When on the main by tempest tost. 
 The ocean heaves its rolling tide, 
 Along that mount's projecting side. 
 Above, his home and grave are seen, 
 With laurels crowned forever green. 
 Full many a step will thither roam, 
 And thoughtful linger round that home. 
 
 The modest Isle of yonder Bay, 
 Screened from the rougher blasts and spray, 
 
INTRODUCTORY LINES. 
 
 There long by storm and billow driven, 
 With mast and sail to fragments riven, 
 The wanderers sought its welcome shore, 
 And safe their struggling shallop moore, 
 There watchful met the earliest dawn, 
 Which first revealed the Sabbath morn, 
 That prayer and praise might o'er the deep, 
 Harmonious strains in concert keep. 
 New England's pristine Sabbath Day 
 On Time's dark flood has passed away, 
 The Pilgrim chant is heard no more, 
 That echoed once upon that shore, 
 And hushed the lips whose accents gave 
 Their grateful notes to wind and wave ; 
 But still the Sabbath's cheerful hours 
 Shall claim and bless our noblest powers, 
 And wing our thoughts to scenes divine, 
 Where faith and hope no more decline. 
 
 The rising Hill, upon whose brow, 
 Was first exchanged the solemn vow, 
 When Massassoit the Indian Chief, 
 So promptly tendered kind relief, 
 And by whose early proffered aid 
 A lasting peace was firmly laid. 
 While Carver, Win slow, Bradford stand, 
 Time honored Fathers of our land, 
 This Chieftain too shall homage claim, 
 Of praise far more than princely fame, 
 True-hearted, gentle, kind and brave, 
 Unfading honor crowns his grave. 
 
 The path through ivhich Samoset came, 
 And boldly welcomed them by name, 
 Whose practised skill and counsel sage, 
 Inscribed appear on history's page, 
 
INTRODUCTORY LINES. XI 
 
 That tells his worth and friendship true, 
 
 And yields the praise so justly due, 
 
 His comely form and features stand 
 
 Portrayed by Sargent's tasteful hand, 
 
 Beside the Groupe of exiled name, 
 
 Who pressed the Rock of endless fame. 
 
 Nor may the just impartial muse 
 
 To other names its meed refuse, 
 
 Nor thoughtless walk o'er Squanto's grave, 
 
 Or Hobbomoch's, the Indian Brave* 
 
 Nor yet withold the debt we owe, 
 
 The courteous Sachem Ianough, 
 
 While Aspinet of Nauset kind, 
 
 Should equal favor, grateful find, 
 
 These in their spheres rich service lent, 
 
 And lives of upright purpose spent, 
 
 Though born and trained to savage life, 
 
 They quenched the sparks of kindling strife, 
 
 Our Fathers loved in ancient days, 
 
 And well deserve the children's praise. 
 
 Ah who shall not their fate deplore, 
 That ranged of old along our shore; 
 The white man now assumes the place, 
 Where dwelt that swift declining race, 
 His gallant Bark in triumph rides, 
 Her swelling sails usurp the tides, 
 Where Indian here with light canoe, 
 No longer skims the waters through, 
 Nor idly basks on hillock green, 
 Whence teeming flood and wave are seen ; 
 His arrows, plied with sturdy arm, 
 The bounding deer no more alarm, 
 
 * Called by Gov. Winslow a pinese, a chief counsellor, or Captain of Massaseoit, and a 
 firm friend of the Pilgrims till his death, about the year 1642. 
 
Xll INTRODUCTORY LINES. 
 
 His kindling fires that flamed by night, 
 No hand again shall ever light, 
 His day of song and dance and glee, 
 Is hushed in dark oblivion's sea, 
 Nor bard of his with glowing lays, 
 His deeds shall sound or swell his praise, 
 Nor pillared tablet ever tell 
 The day he rose or sadly fell. 
 
 The ardent sons of Freedom's cause, 
 Of holy Truth and righteous laws, 
 Who scorn the Bigot's fiery rule, 
 But bred in Robinsonian school, 
 Unshackeled conscience dare maintain, 
 At highest cost of toil and pain, 
 Will oft the Pilgrim page explore, 
 That spread its leaves on Plymouth shore, 
 Fresh impulse find where peril leads, 
 To worthy acts and glorious deeds. 
 
 As o'er their tombs we reverent tread, 
 And call to mind the honored dead, 
 While Fancy sheds her pensive hues, 
 And Time's dim track still lingering views, 
 O may we catch the sacred flame 
 Which hallows yet their glorious fame, 
 So walk with God while here on earth, 
 That we may gain their heavenly birth, 
 And meet at last the sainted throng 
 To join in one eternal song. 
 
GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, 
 
 AND 
 
 RECOLLECTIONS OE THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 A brief Historical account of the Pilgrims previous to 
 their removal from England to Holland. 
 
 O 'twas no earth-born passion, 
 
 That bade the adventurers stray, 
 
 The world and all its fashion, 
 
 With them had passed away. Flint. 
 
 In presenting a brief historical sketch of the Pil- 
 grim Fathers, previous to their removal to Holland in 
 the year 1G07 and 8, our attention is naturally directed 
 to a consideration of the causes, which induced them 
 to relinquish their native country, under circumstan- 
 ces of difficulty, privation and danger, rarely if ever 
 encountered, for objects so noble in their character, 
 and successful in their accomplishment, so transcen- 
 dent in their results. 
 
 In adverting to these causes, we perceive that 
 History reveals to our observation, the founders of 
 1 
 
J GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 New England not only acting in close theoretical 
 harmony with the great principles of the Reformation, 
 which under the fearless auspices of Luther, had ex- 
 erted a powerful influence over the christian world ; 
 but among the most practical and efficient instruments 
 in the promotion of their progress both at home and 
 abroad. 
 
 The Reformation at this period, though bright and 
 cheering, when contrasted with the gross darkness, 
 which for ages had overspread the spiritual concerns 
 of mankind, had been with respect to England, com- 
 paratively slow in its progress ; while on the Conti- 
 nent a Ion"; and ardent contest between the most 
 accomplished scholars and divines, resulted in so far 
 limiting the accustomed bigotry of the age, as to se- 
 cure an asylum to the persecuted fugitives of other 
 nations. 
 
 Henry the Eighth, whose zeal against the move- 
 ments and doctrines of Luther, had won from the 
 Pope of Rome, the title of defender of the faith, under 
 t he influence of passions, regulated by no sense of 
 moral or religious principle, summarily severed the 
 bond of papal supremacy, which for ages had held 
 the English nation within its imperious grasp ; afford- 
 ing a striking example of not unfrequent occurrence 
 in the history of mankind, in which providence con- 
 verts the purposes of human depravity into the suc- 
 cessful instrumentality of promoting the advancement 
 of truth. 
 
 Frustrated in the accomplishment of a negotiation, 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 6 
 
 having for its object the gratification of the most 
 licentious passions, he seized upon the Church reve- 
 nues, previously deemed sacred by his subjects, and 
 which from time immemorial had constituted the 
 unfailing fund, by which the ingenious machinery 
 of Papal imposition was sustained and extended 
 throughout the world. Measures of this character, 
 though productive of no immediate consequences 
 favorable to liberty of conscience, so far as it depended 
 upon the will of this unscrupulous and arbitrary mon- 
 arch, tended to impair the blind veneration with 
 which popular feeling had long regarded the man- 
 dates of Roman Catholic authority, while the diver- 
 sion of large revenues from their accustomed channels 
 of application, diminished its local influence. These 
 causes, in conjunction with the advancing spirit of 
 the age, prepared the way for important changes, both 
 as respects doctrines and ceremonies under the reign 
 of Edward the Sixth, whose early promise and prema- 
 ture death, have so often excited the admiration and 
 the sympathy of mankind. 
 
 'With reference to this period,' says Bancroft, 'so 
 far was the freedom of private enquiry from being 
 recognized as a right, the means of forming a judg- 
 ment on religious subjects was denied. The act of 
 supremacy which severed the English nation from 
 the Roman See, contained no clause favorable to 
 religious liberty. It was but a vindication of the sov- 
 ereign franchise of the English monarch against for- 
 eign interference — it did not aim to enfranchise the 
 
4 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 English nation. The King of England became the 
 Pope ill his own dominions, and heresy was still 
 accounted the greatest of all crimes. All the Catholic 
 doctrines were asserted, except the Supremacy of 
 Rome.' 
 
 The accession of Edward the Sixth, in fifteen hun- 
 dred and forty-seven, afforded far greater security to 
 Protestants, than had been previously enjoyed, and 
 the English Church was established by the authority 
 of Parliament, upon a basis, not essentially different 
 from that which it maintains at the present day. It 
 still preserved, however, the union of Church and State 
 unimpaired ; a feature of the ancient system, justly 
 regarded by the Puritans, as tending to pervert the 
 purity of christian faith and morality; and to encour- 
 age an indolent, slavish dependence upon the fallible 
 dictation of man ; instead of that earnest investigation 
 of divine revelation, which, while it reverently invokes 
 the source of all light for its guidance, enlists the pur- 
 est affections and the highest powers of our nature, 
 and conducts the thirsting soul to fountains of living 
 water, springing into everlasting life. 
 
 But whatever had been gained in the progress of 
 Reformation, during the brief reign of Ed ward, seemed 
 destined to be lost, under the iron sway of his succes- 
 sor Mary ; when the kindling faggots of Smithfield 
 blazed amidst the dying agonies of the Martyrs to 
 conscience, sacrificed to her vindictive temper and 
 unrelenting bigotry ; the familiar and summary pro- 
 cess, by which the Church of Rome has checked the 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. O 
 
 growth of true freedom in the human mincl, leaving 
 no alternative to the pure and conscientious, but en- 
 tire submission to its mandates, or the possible secur- 
 ity of life by instant flight from its power. 
 
 The succeeding reign of Elizabeth, commencing in 
 the year fifteen hundred and fifty-eight, afforded some 
 cessation of the violent persecutions of her predeces- 
 sor, and the promise of relief to the sufferers, for con- 
 science' sake, who had fled to the continent for safety, 
 and encouraged them to return, from their respective 
 places of exile. But their cherished expectations 
 were doomed to cruel disappointment both under the 
 reign of Elizabeth, and that of her successor, James 
 the First; the act of Supremacy was renewed, with 
 accumulated penalties, and enforced with rigorous 
 severity, totally inconsistent with every just principle 
 of toleration, and compelled the conscientious adhe- 
 rents of truth to struggle onward, with a pertinacity 
 which feared no danger, and heeded no consequences, 
 till their perseverance at length achieved its reward, 
 producing changes, both in Church and State, deeply 
 affecting the social order of the whole community. . 
 
 It was at the close of Queen Elizabeth's reign in 
 the year sixteen hundred and two — a period of ar- 
 dent excitement in relation to all the great objects of 
 human pursuit ; when the progressive influence of the 
 Reformation, earnestly engaged the attention of every 
 thoughtful mind — when the newly discovered art of 
 printing facilitated the dissemination of knowledge, 
 and new discoveries by successive navigators, pre- 
 1* 
 
O GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 senteda wide field of commercial enterprise ; that we 
 first trace our Pilgrim Fathers, in the north of Eng- 
 land, manfully contending against the principalities 
 and powers which denied them ' the liberty where- 
 with Christ had made them free.' 
 
 Though few in numbers, their strong faith, earnest 
 zeal and fervent love, created a bond of union, and an 
 intensity of purpose, which never deserted them 
 throughout their perilous enterprise ; whether hunted 
 at home by the minions of hierarchal oppression, 
 exposed to the perilous changes of the ocean, seek- 
 ing a precarious subsistence in a strange land, or ex- 
 ploring the bleak shores of Cape Cod, amidst the 
 rough blasts of a cheerless winter. 
 
 Under the pastoral charge of the learned and 
 accomplished John Robinson, assisted and sustained 
 by the fervent piety and steadfast zeal of Elder 
 Brewster, whose meekness of spirit and gentle de- 
 meanor, might have justly enrolled his name in con- 
 nection with that of the 'beloved disciple' himself; 
 they formed a just conception of that kingdom which 
 is not of this world. Guided by the plain declara- 
 tions of the treasured word of God, they quickly dis- 
 cerned the wide difference existing between the 
 simplicity of apostolic times, and the gorgeous parade 
 of Popery, which, while it claimed to control the con- 
 science and the purse, denied the free use of the Bible, 
 and made no provision for the dissemination of that 
 knowledge, for lack of which, the people were de- 
 stroyed. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 7 
 
 They perceived the force of a truth eloquently ex- 
 pressed by a distinguished writer of modern times * 
 'that as the hostility of heathenism in its direct 
 endeavor to extirpate the christian religion became 
 entirely hopeless in the realms of the Roman Empire, 
 there was a great change of the policy of evil ; and all 
 manner of reprobate things, heathenism among them, 
 rushed as by general consent into treacherous con- 
 junction with Christianity, retaining their own quality 
 under the sacredness of its name, and by a rapid 
 progress inducing it to surrender every thing distinc- 
 tive^ of it, but that dishonored name.' 
 
 To the Prilgrims therefore, belongs the high and 
 glorious distinction of achieving the last step in the 
 long process of Religious Reformation, by asserting 
 and maintaining the separate independence of each 
 Church. t ■ This step had a short time before been 
 attempted by Robert Brown, 'an individual of no very 
 commendable qualities,' whose character was such 'as 
 to throw no little discouragement upon the cause ; nor 
 did it acquire firmness till espoused by Robinson, 
 who may be called the Father of the Independent 
 Churches. His own at Leyden was one of these, 
 and fidelity to their principles was the chief motive 
 of their departure from Holland and the occasion of 
 their settlement at Plymouth.' 
 
 ' -t Of the motives which influenced the first settlers 
 to a voluntary exile, induced them to relinquish their 
 
 # John Foster. t Everett's Oration, Dec. 22, 1S24. 
 
 \ Webster's Centennial Discourse, Dec. 22, 1820. 
 
8 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 native country and to seek an asylum in this then 
 unexplored wilderness, the first and principal no doubt 
 were connected with Religion. They sought to en- 
 joy a higher degree of Religious Freedom, and what 
 they esteemed a purer form of Religious worship, 
 than was allowed to their choice or presented to their 
 imitation in the Old World. It is certain that though 
 many of them were republicans in principle, we have 
 no evidence that our New England ancestors would 
 have emigrated as they did, become wanderers in 
 Europe, and finally undertake the establishment of a 
 Colony here, merely from a dislike of the political 
 systems of Europe. They fled not so much from the 
 civil government as from the Hierarchy and the laws 
 which enforced conformity to the Church establish- 
 ment' 
 
 These facts and considerations, connected with the 
 early struggles of the Pilgrims, in support of the prin- 
 ciples they had espoused, their patient endurance of 
 the severest trials, and their devout acknowledgment of 
 God's overruling providence, under every occurrence 
 of their eventful experience, justly authorize the con- 
 clusion, that a deep sense of the supreme importance 
 of divine Revelation, above every other object of 
 human pursuit, reflected from the inmost depths of 
 the Soul, was to them the cloud by day, and the pillar 
 of fire by night, guiding their footsteps to this Western 
 World. 
 
 One of the most distinguished sons of the Pilgrims, 
 referring to the principal epochs in the history of 
 

 RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. V 
 
 mankind, which have decidedly accelerated the pro- 
 gress of civilization, after presenting a thorough 
 exposition of the existing causes which must long ob- 
 struct the progress of Religious and Civil liberty in 
 the old world, breaks forth in the following eloquent 
 strain. 
 
 ■ ' While therefore the work of social renovation 
 is entirely hopeless in Europe, we cannot but regard 
 it as the plain interposition of Providence, that at the 
 central point of time, when the most powerful springs 
 of improvement were in operation, a chosen company 
 of pilgrims who were actuated by these springs of 
 improvement came over to these distant unoccupied 
 shores. I know not that the work of thorough re- 
 form could be safely trusted to other hands. I can 
 credit their disinterestedness, when they maintain the 
 equality of ranks. For no rich forfeitures of attainted 
 lords await them in the wilderness. I need not 
 question the sincerity with which they assert the 
 right of conscience ; for the plundered treasures of an 
 ancient hierarchy are not to seal their doctrine. They 
 rested the edifice of their civil and religious liberties 
 on a foundation as pure and innocent as the snows 
 around them. 
 
 ' Blessed be the spot, the only one on earth, where 
 such a foundation was ever laid.' 
 
 But the combined influence of the Throne and 
 the Hierarchy, exerted in every odious form of exac- 
 tion and annoyance, against nonconformity, exposed 
 
 * Everett's Oration, Dec. 22, 1824. 
 
10 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 the pilgrims to the severest trials and rendered an 
 adherence to principle, incompatible with their con- 
 tinued abode in England ; and their attention was 
 directed to some means of escape from the increasing 
 difficulties which assailed them on every side. 
 These difficulties are minutely recorded in that part 
 of the History of Governor Bradford, inserted in the 
 Church Records of Plymouth by Secretary Morton, 
 author of the New England Memorial, from which 
 the following extract is copied. ■ But, after these 
 things, they could not longer continue in any peace- 
 able manner, but were- hunted and persecuted on 
 every side, so as their former afflictions were but as 
 mole -hills to mountains in comparison to those which 
 now come upon them. For some were taken and 
 clapped up in prisons, others had their houses beset 
 and w T atched night and day, and hardly escaped their 
 hands ; and the most were fain to fly and leave their 
 houses and habitations, and the means of their liveli- 
 hood. Yet these, and many other sharper things 
 which afterwards befel them, were no other than they 
 looked for, and therefore w r ere the better prepared to 
 bear them, by the assistance of God's grace and 
 spirit. Yet seeing themselves thus molested, and 
 that there was no hope of their continuance there, by 
 a joint consent they resolved to go into the Low 
 Countries, where they heard was freedom of religion 
 for all men, as also sundry from London and other 
 parts of the land, that had been exiled and persecuted 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 11 
 
 foi the same cause, were gone thither, and lived in 
 Amsterdam and in other places of the land. 
 
 ' So after they had continued together about a year, 
 and kept their meetings every Sabbath in one place 
 or another, exercising the worship of God among 
 themselves, notwithstanding all the diligence and 
 malice of their adversaries, they seeing they could 
 no longer continue in that condition, they resolved to 
 get over into Holland, as they could, which was in 
 the year 1607 and 1608; of which more in that which 
 followeth.' 
 
 Note. Gov. Bradford wrote a history of the pilgrims, from the 
 year 1602 lo 1647, containing- 270 pages, which was used by Morion 
 and Hutchinson in their histories and Prince in his chronology of 
 New England. This work of Gov. Bradford, in manuscript, was de- 
 posited, with other valuable documents, in the Tower of the Old 
 South Church in the City of Boston, and was lost during the Revolu- 
 tion, when that church was occupied by the British troops. That part 
 of the work above referred to, contained in the Church Records of 
 Plymouth, has been accurately copied and published with copious notes, 
 by the Rev. Dr. Young in his Chronicles of the Pilgrims. 
 
 
12 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 { When Tyranny bigotry's banners upreared, 
 These fathers for conscience, for freedom, self-banished, 
 Confiding in Heaven, o'er the wild billow steered, 
 And in Holland found refuge while bigotry vanished.' 
 
 Departure of the Pilgrims for Holland — Their arri- 
 val at Amsterdam, 
 
 Having in the preceding Chapter, in as brief a 
 manner as seemed practicable, stated the principal cir- 
 cumstances and causes which induced the pilgrims 
 to quit their native country — we proceed to describe 
 the difficulties encountered and the sacrifices incurred, 
 in the final accomplishment of their purpose. "We 
 recur again to the interesting history of Gov. Brad- 
 ford, the simplicity and truthfulness of whose narra- 
 tion, urge a stronger claim upon our regard from the 
 fact of his active and prominent participation in the 
 events he relates and the- scenes he describes. 
 
 1 Being thus constrained to leave their native coun- 
 try, their lands and livings, and all their familiar ac- 
 quaintance, it was much, and thought marvellous by 
 many. But to go into a country they knew not, but by 
 hearsay, where they must learn a new language, and 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 13 
 
 get their livings they knew not how, it being a dear 
 place and subject to the miseries of war, it was by 
 many thought an adventure almost desperate, a case 
 intolerable, and a misery worse than death; especi- 
 ally considering they were not acquainted with trades 
 nor traffic, (by which the country doth subsist,) but 
 had only been used to a plain country life, and the 
 innocent trade of husbandry. But these things did 
 not dismay them (although they did sometimes trou- 
 ble them,) for their desires were set on the ways of 
 God, and to enjoy his ordinances. But they rested 
 on his providence and knew whom they had believed. 
 Yet this was not all. For although they could not 
 stay they were not suffered to go ; but the ports and. 
 havens were shut against them, so as they were fain 
 to seek secret means of conveyance, and to fee the 
 mariners, and give extraordinary rates for their pas- 
 sage. And yet were they often times betrayed, many 
 of them, and both they and their goods intercepted 
 and surprised, and thereby put to great trouble and 
 charge ; of which I will give an instance or two, 
 and omit the rest. 
 
 1 There was a great company of them purposed to 
 get passage at Boston, in Lincolnshire ; and for that 
 end had hired a ship wholly to themselves, and made 
 agreement with the master to be ready at a certain 
 day, and take them and their goods in at a convenient 
 place, where they accordingly would all attend in 
 readiness. So after long waiting and large expenses, 
 though he kept not the day with them, yet he came 
 2 
 
14 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 at length, and took them in, in the night. And when 
 he had them and their goods aboard, he betrayed them, 
 having beforehand complotted with the searchers and 
 other officers so to do; who took them and put them 
 into open boats, and there rifled and ransacked them, 
 searching them to their shirts for money, yea, even 
 the women, farther than became modesty ; and then 
 carried them back into the town, and made them a 
 spectacle and wonderment to the multitude, which 
 came flocking on all sides to behold them. Being 
 thus by the catchpole officers rifled and stripped of 
 their money, books, and* much other goods, they were 
 presented to the magistrates, and messengers sent to 
 inform the Lords of the Council of them ; and so they 
 were committed to ward. Indeed, the magistrates 
 used them courteously, and showed them what favor 
 they could ; but could not deliver them until order 
 came from the Council table. But the issue was, 
 that after a month's imprisonment the greatest part 
 were dismissed, and sent to the places from whence 
 they came; but some* of the principal men were 
 still kept in prison, and bound over to the assizes. 
 
 1 The next spring after, there was another attempt 
 made, by some of these and others, to get over at 
 another place ; and it so fell out that they lighted of a 
 
 * In a memoir of Elder Brewster, contained in the Church Records 
 of Plymouth, written by Gov. Bradford, it is staled, that ' Elder Brews- 
 ter was the chief of those that were taken at Bos 1 on in Lincolnshire, 
 and suffered the greatest loss, and one of the seven that were kept 
 longest in prison and after bound over to the Assizes.' 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 15 
 
 Dutchman at Hull, having a ship of his own belong* 
 ing to Zealand. They made agreement with him, 
 and acquainted him with their condition, hoping to 
 find more faithfulness in him than in the former, of 
 their own nation. He bade them not fear ; for he 
 would do well enough. He was by appointment to 
 take them in between Grimsby and Hull, where was 
 a large common, a good way distant from any town. 
 Now against the prefixed time, the women and chil- 
 dren, with the goods, were sent to the place in a small 
 bark, which they had hired for that end, and the men 
 were to meet them by land. But it so fell out that 
 they were there a day before the ship came ; and the 
 sea being rough, and the women very sick, prevailed 
 with the seamen to put into a creek hard by, where 
 they lay on ground at low water. The next morning 
 the ship came; but they were fast, and could not stir 
 until about noon. In the mean time, the shipmaster, 
 perceiving how the matter was, sent his boat to be 
 getting the men aboard, whom he saw walking about 
 the shore. But after the first boat-full was got aboard, 
 and she was ready to go for more, the master .espied a 
 great company, both horse aud foot, with bills and 
 guns and other weapons ; for the country was raised 
 to take them. The Dutchman seeing that, swore his 
 country's oath, ('sacrament') and having the wind 
 fair, weighed his anchor, hoisted sails, and away. 
 
 ' But the poor men which were got on board were in 
 great distress for their wives and children, which they 
 saw thus to be taken, and were left destitute of their 
 helps, and themselves also not having a cloth to shift 
 
16 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 them with, more than they had on their backs, and 
 some scarce a penny about them, all they had being 
 on board the bark. It drew tears from their eyes, and 
 any thing they had they would have given to have 
 been on shore again. But all in vain ; there was no 
 remedy; they must thus sadly part; and afterwards 
 endured a fearful storm at sea, being fourteen days or 
 more before they arrived at their port : in seven where- 
 of they neither saw sun, moon, nor stars, and were 
 driven to the coast of Norway; the mariners them- 
 selves often despairing of life, and once with shrieks 
 and cries gave over all, as if the ship had been foun- 
 dered in the sea, and they sinking without recovery. 
 But when man's hope and help wholly failed, the 
 Lord's power and mercy appeared for their recovery; 
 for the ship rose again, and gave the mariner's cour- 
 age again to manage her; and if modesty would suf- 
 fer me, I might declare with what fervent prayers they 
 cried unto the Lord in this great distress, especially 
 some of them, even without any great distraction. 
 When the water ran into their very ears and mouths, 
 and the mariners cried out, ' We sink, we sink,' they 
 cried, if not with miraculous, yet with a great height 
 of divine faith, ' Yet, Lord, thou canst save ; yet, 
 Lord, thou canst save : ' with such other expressions 
 as I will forbear. Upon which the ship did not only 
 recover, but shortly after the violence of the storm be- 
 gan to abate, and the Lord filled their afflicted minds 
 with such comforts as every one cannot understand, 
 and in the end brought them to their desired haven ; 
 where the people came flocking, admiring their deliv- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 17 
 
 erance, the storm having been so long and sore, in 
 which ranch hurt had been done, as the master's 
 friends had related unto him in their congratulations. 
 'But to return to the others where we left. The 
 rest of the men that were in the greatest danger made 
 shift to escape away before the troop could surprise 
 them, those only staying that best might, to be assis- 
 tant to the women. But pitiful it was to see the 
 heavy case of these poor women in this distress ; 
 what weeping and crying on every side; some for 
 their husbands that were carried away in the ship, as 
 it was before related ; others not knowing what should 
 become of them and their little ones ; others melted in 
 tears, seeing their poor little ones hanging about them, 
 crying for fear and quaking with cold. Being thus ap- 
 prehended, they were hurried from one place to anoth- 
 er, and from one justice to another, until, in the end, 
 they knew not what to do with them. For to imprison 
 so many women and innocent children for no other 
 cause, many of them, but that they would go with 
 their husbands, seemed to be unreasonable, and all 
 would cry out of them ; and to send them home again 
 was as difficult, for they alleged (as the truth was) 
 they had no homes to go to, for they had sold or oth- 
 erwise disposed of their houses and livings. To be 
 short, after they had been thus turmoiled a good 
 while, and conveyed from one constable to another, 
 they were glad to be rid of them in the end upon any 
 terms, for all were wearied and tired with them ; 
 though, in the mean time, the poor souls endured mis- 
 2* 
 
18 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 ery enough; and thus in the end necessity forced a 
 way for them. 
 
 * But that I be not tedious in these things, I will 
 omit the rest, although I might relate other notable 
 passages and troubles which they endured and un- 
 derwent in these their wanderings and travels, both 
 at land and sea. But I haste to other things. Yet I 
 may not omit the fruit that came hereby. For by 
 these so public troubles in so many eminent places 
 their cause became famous, and occasioned many to 
 look into the same; and their godly carnage and 
 christian behavior was such as left a deep impression 
 in the minds of many. And though some few shrunk 
 at those first conflicts and sharp beginnings, (as it was 
 no marvel,) yet many more came on with fresh cour- 
 age, and greatly animated others; and in the end, 
 notwithst aiding all these storms of opposition, they 
 all got over at length, some at one time and some at 
 another, and met together again, according to their 
 desires, with no small rejoicing.' 
 
 We close the present chapter,by presenting to the 
 reader, the following deeply interesting sketch of the 
 embarcation of our Fathers from England for Holland. 
 
 * ' The embarcation of the Pilgrims for Holland, is 
 deeply interesting from its circumstances, and also as 
 it marks the character of the times, independently of 
 its connection with names, now incorporated with the 
 history of empire. 
 
 t An unfrequented and barren heath on the shores 
 
 * Webster's Centennial address, Dec. 22, 1820. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 19 
 
 of Lincolnshire was the selected spot, where the feet 
 of the Pilgrims, were to tread for the last time, the 
 land of their fathers. 
 
 1 As this scene passes before us, we can hardly for- 
 bear asking, whether this be a band of malefactors 
 and felons flying from justice ? What are their crimes, 
 that they hide themselves in darkness? To what 
 punishment are they exposed, that to avoid it, men, 
 and women and children, thus encounter the surf of 
 the north sea, and the terrors of a night storm ? What 
 induces this armed pursuit, and this arrest of fugitives, 
 of all ages and both sexes? Truth does not allow us 
 to answer these enquiries, in a manner that does 
 credit to the wisdom or the justice of the times. This 
 was not the flight of guilt, but of virtue. It was an 
 humble and peaceable religion, flying from causeless 
 oppression. It was conscience, attempting to escape 
 from the arbitrary rule of the Stuarts. It was Rob- 
 inson, and Brewster, leading offtheir little band from 
 their native soil, at first to find shelter on the shores 
 of the neighboring continent, but ultimately to come 
 hither ; and having surmounted all difficulties, and 
 braved a thousand dangers, to find here a place of 
 refuge and rest. Thanks be to God, that this spot 
 was honored as the asylum of religious liberty. May 
 its standard, reared here, remain forever ! May it rise 
 up as high as heaven, till its banner shall fan the air 
 of both continents, and wave as a glorious ensign of 
 peace and security to the Nations ! ' 
 
20 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 Residence of the Pilgrims in Holland — Thoughts of 
 Removal from Ley den, and determination to em- 
 bark for America. 
 
 The arduous work of removal from England to 
 Holland had now been successfully accomplished by 
 the Pilgrims, notwithstanding the cruel persecution, 
 by which their progress had been retarded; a perse- 
 cution which not merely hurled its furious blasts 
 against the devoted puritan, whose powers of endur- 
 ance had been strengthened by long and fearless op- 
 position to unjust authority; but against women and 
 children, whose defenceless condition might have 
 excited the sympathy of barbarism itself, instead of 
 inviting exposure, to the rude manners and rough 
 treatment of hireling instruments, acting under the 
 color of legal authority.* But they had found a city 
 
 * There is not one of the acts for which the fathers of New England 
 were dragged from prison and exile, into which, at the same time, it 
 was made as hard as possible for them to escape, for which a man at 
 the present day, could be fined a shilling. And, however unimportant 
 we may think some of the practices and ceremonies against which 
 they waged their strenuous warfare, they are now generally admitted 
 in Protestant countries to be rightful matters of private judgment, in 
 which the state has no concern. That they are so admitted — that 
 this great battle has been fought and won — is distinctly traceable to 
 the resolution and courage of the Puritans. — Everett's Remarks at 
 Plymouth, Dec. 22, 1845. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 21 
 
 of refuge. Gladness once more illumined their path, 
 and gratitude sought utterance in the recognition of 
 divine protection, with emotions not less ardent, than 
 those which inspired the song of Moses, and the 
 timbrel of Miriam, when of old, the tribes of Israel 
 found deliverance from the harsh yoke of Egyptian 
 bondage. 
 
 Their situation and prospects however, presented 
 innumerable difficulties. They had come to a strange 
 land, the attachments of home had been rudely sun- 
 dered, and the unintelligible sounds of a new lan- 
 guage grated upon their ear. The pecuniary means 
 of the more opulent among them, had been greatly 
 impaired, by frequent imprisonment, heavy penalties 
 and the unavoidable sacrifices occasioned by a sudden 
 removal. Accustomed to the peaceful and retired 
 pursuits of husbandry, they were compelled to engage 
 in trades and other occupations peculiar to city life, to 
 insure the means of future subsistence. In addition 
 to these inconveniences, circumstances rendered it 
 expedient to incur the expense of a removal from 
 Amsterdam to Leyden,* after residing but a single 
 
 * Leyden, a celebrated city of Holland, being- the fourth in the king- 
 dom of the Netherlands on the Old Rhine, 21 miles S.W. of Amsterdam, 
 and 10 miles north east of the Hague. It is said to have had, in 1G59, 
 100,000 inhabitants. Perhaps this statement is exaggerated ; but it is 
 said by Busching, to have had in 1733, 10,891 houses, which at an 
 avarage of seven individuals would give a population of about 77,000. 
 Its population in 1837, exceeded 36,000. It is connected by Canals, 
 with Haarlem, Delft, and the Hague. See McCullock's Gazetteer. 
 
22 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 year in the former city ; * an exchange of residence 
 in many respects, productive of serious detriment to 
 their worldly interests. 
 
 But these various discouragements, soon yielded to 
 the spirit of enterprise, the force of industry, and the 
 sound moral principles by which they were governed, 
 inspiring a just confidence among the strangers with 
 whom they dwelt. 
 
 Not long before their departure for America, their 
 peaceable and orderly conduct as men and citizens, 
 obtained a voluntary and public testimonial of appro- 
 bation from the magistrates of the city. The talents 
 and learning of their Pastor, attracted the attention of 
 the University of Leyden ; his argumentative powers 
 were publicly tested in a controversy of great theo- 
 logical interest, in which the most distinguished minds 
 of the day were earnestly engaged ; and his efforts 
 
 * Amsterdam, a famous maratime and commercial city of Holland, 
 capital Prov., N. Holland, and of a district and canton of the same 
 name on the south bank of the Y, an inlet or arm of the Zuyder Zee. 
 The city is supposed to contain about 20,000 houses. In 17S5 the pop- 
 ulation is said to have amounted to 235,000 ; at present, it amounts 
 to about 207,000. 
 
 At the time the Pilgrims first entered this ' City of Refuge,' as it 
 has very appropriately been called, its business was very extensive ; 
 its Bank was celebrated throughout Europe, affording the best facili- 
 ties for mercantile exchanges throughout the world. The facilities for 
 every kind of business were therefore greater at Amsterdam than 
 Leyden, and the pilgrims would doubtless have remained, had not 
 some difficulties existing in another English church there, led them to 
 fear some entanglement, by which their spiritual relations might be 
 injuriously affected. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 23 
 
 upon that occasion, were highly appreciated by those, 
 at whose solicitation, they were successfully exerted. 
 The condition of exiles, under the most favorable 
 outward circumstances, involves sacrifices, connected 
 with the associations of kindred and country, of which 
 none perhaps can form an adequate conception, who 
 have never experienced the peculiar trials of banish- 
 ment. It was a painful reflection to the pilgrims, that 
 a strange land might become the permanent inherit- 
 ance of their posterity. The sentiments of true 
 patriotism even under a deep sense of injustice, 
 experienced from our native land, are not easily 
 extinguished in the human mind, and as successive 
 years passed away, bearing in their progress, no 
 promise of essential improvement in their condition, 
 the thoughts of removal excited their attention. 
 These thoughts derived earnestness and strength 
 from various considerations. The dissolute habits of 
 city life prevailing around them, exposed their chil- 
 dren to a contamination of morals, which the most 
 vigilant parental care found it impossible wholly to 
 counteract. The facilities to military enlistment, 
 presented strong temptations to the young, and led 
 them to a course of life repulsive to the principles of 
 the pilgrims. The sabbath, an institution dear to 
 their recollections, and the object of cherished vener- 
 ation, was openly violated ; and they yearned for a 
 more quiet enjoyment of its sacred hours. ' Lastly, 
 and not least,' in the words of Gov. Bradford, ' was a 
 great hope and inward zeal they had of laying some 
 good foundation, or at least to make some way there- 
 
24 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 nnto for the propagating and advancing the gospel of 
 the kingdom of Christ into these remote parts of the 
 world, yea though they should be as but stepping 
 stones unto others for performing so great a work.' 
 
 In addition to these considerations, the adventurous 
 spirit of the age, doubtless contributed its share, to 
 confirm our fathers in the resolution to remove, and 
 in some degree diminished the apprehensions, nat- 
 urally excited by so hazardous an undertaking. 
 
 These considerations having been duly weighed by 
 the leading minds of the Church of Leyden, and laid 
 before the whole body,' after various discussions, the 
 resolution of removal to America was finally adopted 
 by the majority, not however, without many doubts 
 and fears as to the eventual result of a measure, 
 fraught with so much difficulty and danger. 
 
 It was their intention and final conclusion, to form 
 a distinct body by themselves, under the general 
 government of Virginia,! in the hope of securing 
 from James the First, the toleration of religion, an 
 
 t The Virginia Company was established by letters patent from 
 King James, dated April 10, 1600, and included a strip of land 100 
 miles along the eastern coast of North America, extending from the 
 34th to the 45th degree of north latitude. This territory bore the name 
 of Virginia, which it originally received in honor of Queen Elizabeth. 
 It was granted to two distinct companies, with a view to colonization. 
 The first, or Southern Colony was granted to certain knights, gentle- 
 men, merchants and adventurers of London, who were to colonize 
 between the 34th and the 41st degrees. The second, or Northern 
 Colony was granted to persons of like description in Bristol, Exeter 
 and Plymouth, who were to plant between the 3Slh and the 45th de- 
 grees. Each company was to be under the government of a council 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 25 
 
 object always nearest their hearts, and which it had 
 cost them so ranch to maintain. Two of their num- 
 ber, Robert Cnshman and John Carver, were appointed 
 in the year 1617, and dispatched to London for the 
 purpose of negotiation with the Virginia Company, 
 designed to secure a grant of territory, and at the 
 same time to obtain, if possible, from the King, a 
 promise of security for the rights of conscience. 
 
 These agents were subjected 1o many delays and 
 impediments in accomplishing the object of their 
 mission, and returned to Leyden in May 1618, with 
 encouragement from the Virginia Company, in rela- 
 tion to a grant of territory and a promise on the part 
 of James the First, ' that the King would connive at 
 them, and not molest them, provided they carried 
 peaceably.' But to allow or tolerate them under his 
 seal, would not be granted. The connivance of the 
 crown as respected toleration, may fairly be ascribed 
 to the prevailing rivalship of colonization at that time 
 existing among the sovereigns of Europe ; and the 
 
 of 13, and neither was to plant a colony within a hundred miles of 
 any previous settlement made by the other. 
 
 In the year 1620, November 3d, a new patent was signed by King 
 James, whilst the pilgrims were on their passage. This patent incor- 
 porated the adventurers, the Duke of Lenox and others, between 40 
 and 48 degrees of north latitude. They were styled the council estab- 
 lished at Plymouth, in the county of Devon, for the planting, ruling, 
 ordering and governing of New England in America, ; which is the 
 great and civil basis,' says Prince, ' of all the future patents and plan- 
 tations that divide this country.' 
 
 See Judge Davis' Edition of the N. E. Memorial, page 22, and 
 Young's Chronicles of the Pilgrims, page 54. 
 
 3 
 
26 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 profitable extension of empire, doubtless, reconciled 
 King James to a reluctant concession, by which his 
 subjects were barely permitted the unmolested liberty 
 of worship in a savage wilderness, three thousand 
 miles from the good city of London. The determi- 
 nation of James, to withhold absolute protection to 
 the rights of conscience under his hand and seal, 
 produced great dissatisfaction among the church at 
 Leyden, and many were disposed to abandon the 
 enterprise, without securing conditions which they 
 deemed of indispensable importance; but after ample 
 discussion two other messengers were selected in the 
 month of Feb., 1619, namely, Robert Cushman and 
 Elder William Brewster,* to prosecute further negotia- 
 tions with the Virginia Company, and secure a patent 
 upon the best attainable conditions ; and to engage 
 with such merchants and other friends, as had pre- 
 viously expressed a willingness to embark in their 
 intended enterprise. For effecting these objects, the 
 agents were instructed, respecting the terms on which 
 an arrangement should be made, and were to conclude 
 nothing definitely, without further advice. 
 
 Under these instructions the agents proceeded to 
 the performance of their duties, and, after many delays 
 and discouragements, succeeded in obtaining a patent 
 confirmed under the company's seal, which by the 
 advice of friends was not taken out in the name of 
 any in their own company, but in that of John Win- 
 
 * Not Bradford as stated in Prince and others. See Young's 
 Chronicles. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 27 
 
 cob, then belonging to the family of the Countess of 
 Lincoln, who intended to join them, but from some 
 cause was prevented. The Charter was never used, 
 though procured, by great labor and at much expense. 
 This patent was sent to Leyden, for the consideration 
 of all concerned, with several proposals for their trans- 
 migration, made by Mr. Thomas Weston, a London 
 merchant, and such other merchants and friends as 
 should adventure or go with them, and they were 
 requested speedily to prepare for the voyage. 
 
 The conditions upon which the Pilgrims contracted 
 with the Merchant Adventurers of London, as they 
 were called, for their transportation to America, indi- 
 cate the exhausted state of their pecuniary means, 
 and would probably never have obtained their assent, 
 under circumstances not imposed by absolute neces- 
 sity. We place these conditions before the reader, 
 that a just estimate may be formed of the 'hard 
 terms,' upon which the emigration of our Fathers 
 depended, which were as follows: 
 
 1. The adventurers and planters do agree, that 
 every person that goeth, being sixteen years old and 
 upward, be rated at ten pounds, and that ten pounds 
 be accounted a single share. 
 
 2. That he that goeth in person, and furnisheth 
 himself out with ten pounds, either in money or other 
 provisions, be accounted as having twenty pounds in 
 stock, and in the division shall receive a double share. 
 
 3. The persons transported and the adventurers 
 shall continue their joint stock and partnership the 
 
28 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 space of seven years, except some unexpected impe- 
 diments do cause the whole Company to agree other- 
 wise ; daring which time all profits and benefits that 
 are gotten by trade, traffic, trucking, working, fishing, 
 or any other means, of any other person or persons, 
 shall remain still in the common stock until the 
 division. 
 
 4. That at their coming there they shall choose out 
 such a number of fit persons as may furnish their ships 
 and boats for fishing upon the sea; employing the rest 
 in their several faculties upon the land, as building 
 houses, tilling and planting the ground, and making 
 such commodities as shall be most useful for the 
 Colony. 
 
 5. That at the end of the seven years, the capital 
 and the profits, viz. the houses, lands, goods, and chat- 
 tels, be equally divided among the adventurers. If 
 any debt or detriment concerning this adventure # 
 
 6. Whosoever cometh to the Colony hereafter, or 
 putteth any thing into the stock, shall at the end of 
 the seven years be allowed proportionally to the time 
 of his so doing. 
 
 7. He that shall carry his wife, or children, or ser- 
 vants, shall be allowed for every person, now aged 
 sixteen years and upward, a single share in the divi- 
 sion ; or if he provide them necessaries, a double share ; 
 or if they be between ten years old and sixteen, then 
 two of them to be reckoned for a person, both in 
 transportation and division. 
 
 * Some additional article was probably intended to be inserted. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 29 
 
 8. That such children that now go and are under 
 the age of ten years, have no other share in the 
 division than fifty acres of un manured land. 
 
 9. That such persons as die before the seven years 
 be expired, their executors to have their parts or share 
 at the division, proporiionably to the time of their life 
 in the Colony. 
 
 10. That all such persons as are of the Colony are 
 to have meat, drink, and apparel, and all provisions, 
 out of the common stock and goods of the said 
 Colony. 
 
 These conditions, as we have observed, were re- 
 luctantly assented to, on the part of those concerned 
 in the enterprise of emigration, but Mr. Cushman, 
 their principal agent, as Gov. Bradford observes, 
 '. answered the complaints, that unless they so ordered 
 the conditions, the whole design would have fallen to 
 the ground, and necessity they said having no law, 
 they were constrained to be silent.' 
 
 The foregoing articles of agreement between the 
 adventurers and planters, which properly enough 
 might be termed articles of Copartnership, contain no 
 conditions upon which it should be inferred, that a 
 community of goods in the proper sense of that phrase, 
 was intended or existed among the pilgrims ; and no 
 just grounds appear for the hasty and inconsiderate 
 opinions, assumed by several historians, that such 
 was the fact. Those who engaged in the voyage, 
 required the means of transportation to America, and 
 capital to embark in trade upon their arrival. 
 3* 
 
30 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 The whole stock was divided into shares; stipulated 
 sums were to be paid by those who did not personally 
 adventure, as colonists — while those who did, with 
 their families included, were to render their services 
 at given rates, and to receive at the expiration of the 
 seven years, their proportional profits. The alterations 
 afterwards made by the planters, modifying, in some 
 measure, the original agreement, were the result of 
 unforeseen emergencies, arising soon after their arri- 
 val, and were in no respect detrimental to the general 
 interest. 
 
 History affords but scanty information, as respects 
 the Merchant Adventurers* Most of them were 
 doubtless influenced in their connection with the 
 Pilgrims, by the hope of gain, while Shirly, Hatherly, 
 Collier, Thomas, Beauchamp, and some others, were 
 guided by far higher aims, in which the considerations 
 of profit, had but a secondary place. 
 
 Arrangements were now concluded, and the best 
 practicable preparations made for the long projected 
 voyage. A small ship of sixty tons burthen was pro- 
 cured in Holland, to transport a part of their company 
 
 * The celebrated Capt. John Smith thus speaks of them, writing- in 
 1624. ' The adventurers which raised the stock to begin and supply 
 this plantation, were about seventy, some merchants, some handicrafts- 
 men, some adventuring great sums, some small, as their affection 
 served. These dwelt most about London. They are not a corpora- 
 tion, but knit together by a voluntary combination in a society, with- 
 out constraint or penalty, aiming to do good and plant religion.' The 
 names of the adventurers, as they existed in 1626, will be found in 
 Appendix A. of* this work. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 31 
 
 to America, and to remain there for the purpose of 
 fishing, and such other services as the wants of the 
 Colony might require, on their arrival at the place of 
 destination. 
 
 Another ship called the Mayflower, of one hundred 
 and eighty tons burthen, was chartered at London, 
 and was ordered to Southampton * at which place 
 both vessels were to meet, and embark in company, 
 for America. 
 
 * Southampton is a seaport and market town of England, being a 
 County of itself in Hampshire, at the embouchere of the itchen, in an 
 inlet of the sea called Southampton Sea, 70 miles W. S. W. of Lon- 
 don. This place was the rendezvous of Winthrop's fleet, when pre- 
 paring for the transportation of his Colony to Massachusetts Bay. 
 
32 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 The Embarcation of the Pilgrims at Delj 't- Haven, July 
 22d, 1620. 
 
 1 But lo ! ordained by Heaven's decree, 
 The pilgrims raise their banner free, 
 Resolved from Leyden's exiled home, 
 In distant lands again to roam. 
 
 • The bark is moored and waiting rides, 
 Along Delft-haven's friendly tides, 
 And thither wend the young and old, 
 The stricken flock of Christ's blest fold. 
 
 1 But sad the hour of parting grief, 
 That seeks in vain from earth relief, 
 What pen shall write, what tongue may tell, 
 The melting tones of that farewell.' 
 
 The embarcation from Delft-haven, designates a 
 point of exciting interest in the history of the pilgrims, 
 and whether we regard it as a striking development 
 of the purest affections, and higher principles of our 
 nature.or with reference to its general results on human 
 affairs, possesses the strongest claims to attention, 
 from the orator, poet and painter. 
 
 Holland, at this point of time, engrossed a large 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OP THE PILGRIMS. 33 
 
 share of the tonnage owned by all Europe* and the 
 preparations, for even a remote voyage of a vessel 
 sixty tons burthen only, were not of nn frequent occur- 
 rence. Truth requires us not to confound the indi- 
 viduals concerned in this event amonsr the ordi- 
 nary adventurers of that time — but as influenced 
 by motives of the highest order, as the honored 
 instruments of opening a new theatre of human 
 action — where freedom, exhausted in her conflicts 
 with the corruption of accumulated ages, might break 
 from the old world, and breathe the invigorating at- 
 mosphere of the new. 
 
 The parting scene at Leyden is thus described in 
 Gov. Bradford's history, from which extracts have 
 previously been made. ' So being ready to depart, 
 they had a day of solemn humiliation, their pastor 
 taking his text from Ezra the 8th, 21, upon which 
 he spent a part of the day very profitably, and very 
 suitably to iheir present occasion. The rest of the 
 time was spent in pouring out prayers to the lord, 
 
 * c Without entering into particulars, it is sufficient to state, as illus- 
 trative of the trade of Holland, that in 1690, when it had attained to a 
 maximum, Sir William Petty estimated the whole shipping of Europe 
 at 2,000,000 ions, of which he supposed the Dutch to possess 900,000 
 tons, and it is believed that this estimate was rather within, than be- 
 yond the mark.' — Mc Outlook's Gazetteer, Edit. 1843. 
 
 It is perhaps well deserving our attention, as illustrating the growth 
 of commerce in America, that our present tonnage, exceeds that owned 
 by all Europe, at the lime of embarcation, when our rivers, bays and 
 oceans, possessed no better means of water communication, than a 
 birch canoe, or by way of improvement, a log of the larger class, dug 
 out, with much labor, by some Indian shipwright. 
 
34 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 with great fervency, mixed with abundance of tears. 
 And the time being come when they must depart, 
 they were accompanied with most of their brethren 
 out of the city unto a town sundry miles off called 
 Delft-Haven, where the ship lay ready to receive 
 them. So they left that good and pleasant city, 
 which had been their resting place near twelve 
 years. But they knew they were PILGRIMS* and 
 looked not much on those things, but lifted up their 
 eyes to heaven, their dearest country, and so quieted 
 their spirits. When they came to the place, they 
 found the ship and all things ready, and such of their 
 friends as could not come with them, followed after 
 them, and sundry also came from Amsterdam t to see 
 them shipped, and to take their leave of them. 
 That night was spent with little sleep by the most, 
 but with friendly entertainment and christian dis- 
 course, and other real expressions of true christian 
 love. The next day (July 22d,) the wind being fair, 
 they went on board and their friends with them ; 
 when truly doleful was the sight of that sad and 
 mournful parting ; to see what sighs, and sobs, and 
 prayers did sound amongst them ; what tears did gush 
 
 * I think I may wilh singular propriety call their lives a pilgrimage. 
 Most of them left England about the year 1609, after the truce with 
 the Spaniards, young men between twenty and thirty years of age. 
 They spent near twelve years among the Dutch, first at Amsterdam, 
 afterwards at Leyden. After having arrived to the meridian of life, 
 the declining part was to be spent in another world, among savages, 
 of whom every European must have received a most unfavorable, if 
 not formidable idea. — Hutchinson, History Mass. 2. 452. 
 
 f About 50 miles from Delft- Haven. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 35 
 
 from every eye, and pithy speeches pierced each 
 other's heart; that sundry of the Dutch strangers, 
 that stood on the quay as spectators could not refrain 
 from tears. Yet comfortable and sweet it was to see 
 such lively and true expressions of dear and unfeigned 
 love. But the tide, which stays for no man, calling 
 them away that were thus loth to depart, their reverend 
 pastor, falling down upon his knees, and they all with 
 him, with watery cheeks commended them, with 
 most fervent prayers to the Lord, and his blessing ; 
 and then with mutual embraces and many tears, they 
 took their leaves of one another, which proved their 
 last leave to many of them. Thus hoisting, with a 
 prosperous wind, we came in a short time to South- 
 ampton, where they found the bigger ship come from 
 London, lying ready with all the rest of their com- 
 pany.' 
 
 It was doubtless a source of keenest regret, that 
 various considerations, imposed by necessity, or 
 recommended by prudence, required an arrangement, 
 by which only a part of the congregation of Robinson, 
 should undertake the hazardous experiment of colo- 
 nization. This arrangement necessarily subjected 
 them to a painful separation, imparting to the scene 
 of embarcation, the mingled emotions of doubt, hope, 
 fear and affection, to a degree of intensity which 
 renders the power of language an insufficient medium 
 of adequate description. 
 
 To form just conclusions respecting prominent 
 events, deeply affecting the condition of mankind. 
 
36 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 perhaps no better method can be adopted, than to 
 select those of simultaneous occurrence ; to observe 
 the different degree of interest, with which they 
 were respectively regarded at the time, trace the 
 different consequences by which they have been 
 followed in the lapse of ages, and from this comparative 
 examination, determine the just value and extent 
 of their influence on human affairs. In accordance 
 with this remark, the embarcation at Delft- Haven, 
 and the thirty years war of Europe, have been happily 
 designated, as affording appropriate subjects of just 
 comparison. The one was peaceful and unobtrus- 
 ive, sanctioned by the fervent solemnities of religion, 
 under the direction of individuals, whose previous 
 history had formed a school of the severest trials, 
 in defence of christian liberty, eminently adapted 
 to prepare them for the still sharper conflicts and 
 perils which in fearful array hung over the dubious 
 horizon of their future progress. It was the faith, 
 full of immortality, thus nurtured and established, 
 that imparted the strength, by which they unreservedly 
 resigned their future destiny, in the patience of hope 
 and the labor of love, to the control of infinite wisdom, 
 and the protection of Him, who holds the waters as in 
 the hollow of his hand. 
 
 The other event was signalized, by the pomp and 
 circumstance of miscalled glorious war. The trumpet 
 which summoned the opposing hosts to combat, 
 caught the ear, and riveted the gaze of mankind, and 
 the blood of thousands was poured out like water, on 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 37 
 
 the altar of vengeance. The din of battle has ceased. 
 The warriors of that day sleep in the ' dust and ashes ' 
 of silent forgetfulness; and the tide of time bears on 
 its bosom hardly a ripple, to remind us of the tempest 
 by which it was lashed into furious agitation. But 
 the Pilgrims amidst the shades of obscurity, unheeded 
 by the world's applauding gaze, pursued the solitary, 
 noiseless tenor of their way, across the ocean, and 
 established the foundations of empire ; now expanded 
 from the bleak shores which they first explored, to 
 the waves of the distant Pacific, ' and there is no 
 speech nor language where their voice is not heard.' 
 
 With the following remarks on this interesting 
 subject we close the present chapter. 
 
 1 The embarcation at Delft- Haven, that scene of 
 interest unparalleled, on which a pencil of your own* 
 has just enabled us to look back with tears and 
 praise, and sympathy, and the fond pride of children ; 
 that scene of few and simple incidents ; just the set- 
 ting out of a handful of, not then, very famous persons, 
 on a voyage, but which, as we gaze on it, begins to 
 speak to you, as with the voices and melodies of an 
 immortal hymn, which dilates and becomes idolized 
 into the auspicious going forth of a colony, whose 
 planting has changed the history of the world ; — a 
 
 * In allusion to Weir's Picture of the Embarcation of the Pilgrims 
 from Delft- Haven in Holland, which was then exhibiting in several 
 cities of the Union, and which has since been placed in one of the 
 panels in the Rotunda of the Capitol at Washington. For a descrip- 
 tion of this Painting, see Appendix A. 
 4 
 
38 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 noble colony of devoted christians, — educated, firm 
 men, valiant soldiers, and honorable women ; a col- 
 ony, on the commencement of whose heroic enter- 
 prise, the selectest influences of religion seemed to 
 be descending visibly ; and beyond whose perilous 
 path are hung, the rainbow and the western star of 
 empire.' * 
 
 * Choate's Oration at New York, Dec. 22d, 1S43. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 39 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 The Departure of the Mayflower and Speedwell for 
 
 America — Incidents of the Voyage — Arrival 
 
 at Cape Cod. 
 
 The Ship Mayflower, Mr. Jones, master, having 
 arrived from London to Southampton, after waiting 
 seven days, was joined by the Speedwell, Mr. Rey- 
 nolds, master, from Delft- Haven ; and active prepar- 
 ations were made for a prompt prosecution of the 
 voyage — aided by Mr. Weston, one of the merchant 
 adventurers of London, who had come for that pur- 
 pose. Seven hundred pounds sterling, were laid out 
 at Southampton, and seventeen hundred pounds 
 more as an adventure. A letter from Mr. Robinson, 
 their pastor, without date, but probably written the 
 27th of July, addressed to his ' loving christian friends,' 
 was received by Mr. Carver, and read to the whole 
 company. This letter was deeply fraught with the 
 excellent spirit of its distinguished author, and was 
 gratefully received by those, who had so long enjoyed 
 the benefits of his ministry. 
 
 The company was conveniently distributed into 
 both ships, and a governor and several assistants 
 were appointed for each, to have the oversight of all 
 
40 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 on board. They embarked from Southampton on the 
 5th day of August, 1620. They had not proceeded 
 far, however, before Mr. Reynolds of the Speedwell 
 complained that his ship was in so leaky a condition 
 that he feared to proceed further, and on the I3lh of 
 August, both vessels put into Dartmouth. The 
 Speedwell having undergone what were deemed 
 adequate repairs, both vessels put to sea again on 
 the 21st of August. After proceeding about one 
 hundred leagues beyond the land's end of England, 
 Mr. Reynolds again complained of his ship, and the 
 danger of foundering, if they proceeded on the 
 voyage, when both vessels entered the harbor of 
 Plymouth. On a second examination of the Speed- 
 well, no particular injury seemed to have been sus- 
 tained, and the general weakness of the ship was 
 assigned as the cause of difficulty, though it after- 
 wards appeared, that the deception of Reynolds and 
 others was the main cause of the serious and repeated 
 delays to which they had been subjected, and which 
 proved highly injurious to their future interests. It 
 was now determined to dismiss the Speedwell, and 
 such part of the whole company as could not be 
 accommodated in the Mayflower.* It was decided 
 
 * Though it is not improbable,, that as respected some of the passen- 
 gers appointed to return in the Speedwell with Mr. Cushman, refer- 
 ence was had to their relative ability to aid in the arduous labor of 
 establishing the intended* colony, there seems no reason to conclude, 
 as some historians have intimated and asserted, that they were timid; 
 or discouraged. The spirit, not of fear, but of a sound mind, appears to. 
 have generally pervaded the whole body of emigrants ; and Rober'l 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 41 
 
 that Mr. Cushman and his family, and others, about 
 twenty in all, should return to London. Another sad 
 parting scene occurred, and the Mayflower on the 
 6th day of September, once more spread her canvass 
 to a favorable breeze. But the fair prospects which 
 cheered the pilgrims, when leaving the shores of Eng- 
 land for the last time, were soon clouded ; contrary 
 winds opposed their progress ; fierce storms assailed 
 them ; the upper works of the ship were injured, and 
 became leaky ; one of the main beams was wrenched 
 from its place ; serious doubts existed whether it 
 would be practicable to pursue the voyage ; and a con- 
 sultation of the principal seamen and passengers was 
 held. But the ship proving strong under water, the 
 beam was restored to its proper position by means of 
 a screw, strongly secured by the carpenter, and they 
 continued their voyage. ' And so, after many boister- 
 ous storms, in which they could bear no sail, but 
 were forced to lie at hull for many days together, 
 after long being at sea, (on the 9th of Nov.) they fell 
 in with the land, called Cape Cod, the which being 
 made and certainly known to be it, they were not a 
 little joyful/ 
 
 Cushman was the last individual among them on whose character for 
 self devotion, intelligence and courage, the slightest breath of suspicion 
 should rest. v 
 
 4* 
 
42 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AJO? 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 Exploration of Cape Cod — Compact on hoard the 
 Mayfloiver — Landing at Plymouth. 
 
 The sensations of delight with which the sight of 
 land was hailed by the pilgrims, awakened sentiments 
 of ardent gratitude, which found expression in devout 
 acknowledgments to Heaven^ for preservation through 
 the multiplied difficulties and imminent dangers to 
 which they had been exposed in their passage across 
 the ocean. It was their intention to settle at or near 
 Hudson's River,* according to the agreement made 
 
 * The following remarks are copied from a note in Young T s Chron- 
 icles of the Pilgrims. ' Morton in his Memorial, gives another account 
 of the matter. He says, page 34, • Their putting into this place ( Cape 
 Cod Harbor) was partly by reason of a storm, by which they were 
 forced in, but more especially by the fraudulency and contrivance of 
 Mr. Jones, the master of the ship ; for their intention as before noted, 
 and his engagement was to Hudson's River. But some of the Dutch 
 having notice of their intentions, and having thoughts about the same 
 time of erecting a plantation there likewise, they fraudulently hired the 
 said Jones, by delays while they were in England, and now under the 
 pretence of the shoals, &c. to disappoint them in their going thither. 
 He adds in a note, ' Of this plot betwixt the Dutch and Mr. Jones, 1 
 have had late and certain intelligence.' But the cotemporary narra- 
 tives, written by Bradford and Winslow, say nothing about the treach- 
 ery of the captain. Nor does Bradford's history, as quoted by Prince,. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS 43 
 
 previous to their departure from England ; but the land 
 at first so gladly welcomed, after the fatigues of a 
 long and boisterous voyage, was widely remote from 
 the point of destination, and the attempt to reach it, 
 was obstructed by the dangerous shoals they encoun- 
 tered, which obliged them to return to Cape Cod. 
 
 page 162, who is therefore obliged to derive this statement from Mor- 
 ton. Morton is the first to mention it, and he does it in a book, 
 printed in 1669 ; and in his book, half a century after the event is said 
 to have occurred, he says, it is true, ' that he had late and certain intel- 
 ligence of this plot.' If it had been early intelligence, it would have 
 been more certain. But Morton was only eleven years old when he 
 came over with his father to Plymouth in 1623, and when he published 
 his book, all the first comers were dead who could have furnished 
 credible information on this point — they had died, and ' given no sign.' 
 The foregoing remarks do not appear to rest upon sufficient grounds, 
 to discredit the positive, unqualified declaration of Sec. Morton, 
 that he had ' late and certain intelligence of this plot.' It is evident 
 that credible information might have been obtained, with reference to 
 this matter, in 1669, from John Howland, who then lived in Plymouth, 
 and died there in 1672, and from John Alden who lived in Duxbury, 
 and died in 16S7, both of whom were ' first comers ' of the Mayflower, 
 and whose authority none would deny as standing second to no other. 
 It must be admitted that Morton, as an intimate relation of Gov. 
 Bradford, and from his official situation as Secretary of the Colony, 
 for many years, during his administration, possessed the best means of 
 procuring information, on all subjects of Colonial history, whether 
 early or late. The silence of Bradford and Winslow, in their early 
 histories, does not seem conclusive on this point, and may have been 
 the result of prudential considerations, rendering it inexpedient to pub- 
 lish any remarks implicating Capt. Jones, on account of his connection 
 with the merchant adventurers, or for want of definite information at 
 that time. It is further not impossible, that as an early and mutually 
 beneficial intercourse was opened, between the pilgrims and the Dutch 
 at New Amsterdam, allusions to this subject might have beenpruden- 
 tially avoided, to prevent any occurrence, that would endanger their 
 
44 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 They were now in great perplexity ; in a strange, 
 unexplored region, without the bounds of their patent ; 
 and winter was fast approaching. The captain of the 
 Mayflower urged them, forthwith to find some place 
 of settlement, and intimations were given that unless 
 
 good understanding. It is matter of history, that both Isaac Allerton, 
 and Thomas Willet, were, in the latter period of their life, occasionally 
 residents with the Dutch at New Amsterdam, from whom it is quite 
 possible, if not probable, that 'the late and certain information' of 
 which Secretary Morton writes, was received. 
 
 It is somewhat singular at least, that Capt. Jones, after the well 
 known voyages of Gosnold and Smith, should have steered his course 
 for Hudson's River, and have found himself so remote from the point of 
 destination. But little is said of Capt. Jones in early history, and that 
 little is not much to his credit. His impatience at Cape Cod, at a 
 time, perhaps more trying to the Pilgrims than that of any other in their 
 history ; the intimation (according to Gov. Bradford's History) from 
 him and his seamen, that they would be left to shift for themselves, 
 would not seem to recommend his memory much to our favorable re- 
 gard. Bradford and Winslow, however silent with respect to Jones, 
 are decided in their charge of duplicity on the part of Reynolds, the 
 master of the Speedwell ; and that some collusion existed between 
 them and the early Dutph settlers is highly probable, an inference, 
 which accords with uniform tradition, since the Memorial was published 
 in 1669 ; and from the positive testimony of Secretary Morton, whose 
 claims to confidence in matters of fact, whatever other faults he may 
 have had as an historian, rest upon grounds not easily shaken. The 
 remark, ' if it had been early intelligence, it would have been more 
 certain] is more epigrammatic than sound. In cases of fraudulent 
 contrivance, time is the great truth-teller, and the latest intelligence is 
 often the surest. Prince, in his N. E. Chronology p. 67, observes, 
 1 In the spring of 1620 Capt. Dermer returns to New England. In his 
 way he meets with certain Hollanders, who had a trade in Hudson's 
 river some years.' These Hollanders may have been the same men- 
 tioned by Edward "Winslow, from whom the Pilgrims received ' large 
 offers ' if they would ' go under them to Hudson's River.' 
 

 ■ >^- 
 
 ALLTN 1 1 
 
 A 
 
 [ 
 
 FULLER ORAD.LI 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 45 
 
 this were speedily accomplished, the vessel would 
 leave them to their fate. 
 
 On the 11th day of November, the Mayflower 
 arrived and anchored at Cape Cod Harbor,* having 
 been 98 days on her passage across the Atlantic. 
 Supplies of wood and water were here obtained, and 
 it was resolved, when their shallop could be repaired, 
 to explore the bay with a view to find some suitable 
 place of settlement. 
 
 1 This day, before we came to harbor, observing 
 some not well affected to unity and concord, but gave 
 some appearance of faction, it was thought good there 
 should be an association and agreement, that we 
 should combine together in one body, and to submit 
 to such government and governors as we should by 
 common consent agree to make and choose, and set 
 our hands to this that follows, word for word.f 
 
 * See Cape Cod, in the following work, for more particulars re- 
 specting the localities visited by the Pilgrims. 
 
 t One influence there was, however, on the history of English 
 puritanism. whose permanent and various effects on its doctrines, 
 character and destinies, is among the most striking things in the 
 whole history of Opinion. I mean its contact with the republican 
 reforms of the Continent, and particularly those of Geneva. I ascribe 
 to the five years in Geneva an influence that has changed the condi- 
 tion of the world. I seem to myself to trace to it, as an influence on the 
 English race, a new Theology, a new Politics, another tone of char- 
 acter, the opening of another era of time and liberty. I seem to 
 myself, to trace to it, a portion, at least, of the objects of the great 
 civil war in England, the republican. constitution, framed in the cabin 
 of the Mayflower, the divinity of Jonathan Edwards, the Battle of 
 Bunker Hill, and the Independence of America. — Choate's Oration at 
 New York, Dec. 22, 1824. 
 
46 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 In the name of God, Amen. We, whose names 
 are underwritten, the loyal subjects of our dread 
 sovereign lord, King James, by the grace of God, of 
 Great Britain, France, and Ireland king, defender of 
 the faith, &c. having undertaken, for the glory of 
 God, and advancement of the Christian faith, and 
 honor of our king and country, a voyage to plant the 
 first colony in the northern parts of Virginia, do, by 
 these presents, solemnly and mutually, in the pres- 
 ence of God and one of another, covenant and com- 
 bine ourselves together into a civil body politic, for 
 our better ordering and preservation, and furtherance 
 of the ends aforesaid ; and by virtue hereof to enact, 
 constitute and frame such just and equal laws, ordi- 
 nances, acts, constitutions, and offices, from time to 
 time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient 
 for the general good of the colony; unto which we 
 promise all due submission and obedience. In wit- 
 ness whereof we have hereunder subscribed our 
 names, at Cape Cod, the 11th of November, in the 
 year of the reign of our sovereign lord, King James, 
 of England, France and Ireland the eighteenth, and 
 of Scotland the fifty-fourth, anno Domini 1620. 
 
 [Mr. John Carver t 8 John Alden 1 
 
 William Bradford t 2 Mr. Samuel Fuller 2 
 
 Mr. Edward WiNSLowt 5 *Me. Christoph'r Martin|4 
 
 Mr. William Brewster! 6 *Mr. William Mullinsj 5 
 
 Mr. Isaac Allerton t 6 *Mr. William White! 5 
 
 Capt. Miles StandishI 2 Mr. Richard Warren 1 
 
 John Howland =*John Goodman 1 
 
• RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIM1. 47 
 
 Mr. Stephen Hopkins t 8 ♦Degory Priest 
 
 ♦Edward Tilly t 4 *Thomas Williams 
 
 ♦John Tilly t 3 Gilbert Winslow 
 
 Francis Cook 2 *Edmund Margeson 
 
 ♦Thomas Rogers 2 Peter Brown 
 
 *Thomas Tinker! 3 ♦Richard Britterige 
 
 ♦JOHN RlDGDALEf 2 GEORGE SoULE 
 
 ♦Edward Fuller! 3 ♦Richard Clarke 
 
 ♦John Turner 3 Richard Gardiner 
 
 Francis Eaton t 3 *John Allerton 
 
 ♦James Chilton f 3 ♦Thomas English 
 
 ♦John Crackston 2 Edward Dotey 
 
 John BiLLiNGTONf 4 Edward Leister 
 
 ♦Moses Fletcher 1 101 
 
 The above list of the signers of the celebrated 
 Compact, is taken from Prince's New England Chron- 
 ology, vol. 1, p. 85, Edit. 1736, which is preceded by 
 the following remarks. ' To this instrument Mr. Mor- 
 ton sets the subscribers in the following order: but their 
 names corrected, with titles and families, I take from 
 the list at the end of Governor Bradford's folio man- 
 uscript. Only this I observe, that out of modesty* he 
 omits the title of Mr. to his own name, which he 
 ascribes to several others.' 
 
 The figures opposite each name designate the 
 number in each family. Those having an Asterisk 
 (*) prefixed, died before the end of March. Those 
 which are marked with an Obelisk (f ) brought their 
 wives with them. One of those attached to the name 
 of Samuel Fuller was his servant, named William 
 Butten, a youth, who died Nov. 1st, on the passage. 
 
48 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 George Soule was of Winslow's family. Edward Do- 
 tey and Edward Leister were of Stephen Hopkins's 
 family. Christopher Martin, Richard Warren, Ste- 
 phen Hopkins, John Billington, Edward Dotey, 
 Edward Leister, and perhaps some others, joined 
 them at London. 
 
 The number against the name of William White, 
 does not include that of his son Peregrine, born in 
 Cape Cod harbor. 
 
 John Howland was of Governor Carver's family,* 
 John Allerton and Thomas English were seamen. 
 Dr. Young in his Chronicles of the Pilgrims, page 122, 
 remarks that 'the list includes the servant who died, 
 the latter ought not to be counted. The number 
 living at the signing of the Compact, was therefore 
 only 100/ 
 
 • So there were just 101 who sailed from Plymouth 
 in England, and just as many arrived in Cape Cod 
 harbor. And this is the solitary number, who for an 
 undefiled conscience and the love of pure Christianity, 
 first left their native and pleasant land, and encoun- 
 tered all the toils and hazards of the tumultuous 
 ocean, in search of some uncultivated region in North 
 
 * The mode of expression used by Gov. Bradford, has probably- 
 led to the impression among many, that John Howland was much 
 younger at the time of landing than was really the fact, and perhaps 
 our painting of the landing has countenanced this impression. The 
 mode of expression used by Gov. Bradford, may have arisen from the 
 fact that Rowland's wife, Elizabeth, was a daughter of Gov. Carver. 
 In the division of land in 1623, John Howland was allotted four acres. 
 He was 28 years old when the Mayflower arrived. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 49 
 
 Virginia, where they might quietly enjoy their relig- 
 ious liberties, and transmit them to posterity in hopes 
 that none would follow to disturb or vex them.' The 
 same day Mr. John Carver was appointed their Gov- 
 ernor. 
 
 I These were the founders of the Colony of New 
 Plymouth. The settlement of this colony occasioned 
 the settlement of Massachusetts Bay, which was the 
 source of all the other Colonies of New England. 
 Virginia was in a dying state, and seemed to revive 
 and flourish from the example of New England. 
 
 I I am not preserving from oblivion the names of 
 heroes whose chief merit is the overthrow of cities, 
 provinces and empires, but the names of the founders 
 of a flourishing town and colony, if not of the whole 
 British empire in North America.' — Hutchinson 11, 462. 
 
 This memorable act of the Pilgrims, which occurred 
 on board the Mayflower in Cape Cod harbor, has 
 justly been regarded as the foundation of our repub- 
 lican institutions, and the only instance on record, in 
 which the great principles of equal rights have been 
 incorporated into a frame of civil government by the 
 deliberate, unconstrained action of the people, having 
 reference to the general good, without exclusive reser- 
 vations to any. 
 
 ' * This is perhaps the only instance, in human 
 history, of that positive original social compact, which 
 speculative Philosophers have imagined as the only 
 
 * John Quincy Adams's Oration. Dec. 22, 1S02. 
 5 
 
50 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 legitimate source of government. Here was a unan- 
 imous and personal assent by all the individuals of 
 the community, to the association by which they be- 
 come a nation. It was the result of circumstances 
 and discussions, which had occurred during their 
 passage from Europe, and is a full demonstration that 
 the nature of civil government, abstracted from the 
 political institutions of their native country, had been 
 an object of their serious meditation. The settlers of 
 all the European colonies had contented themselves 
 with the powers conferred upon them by their 
 respective charters, without looking beyond the seal 
 of the royal parchment for the measure of their rights, 
 and the rule of their duties.' 
 
 The first visit of the pilgrims on the shores of Cape 
 Cod, was the same day on which they first anchored* 
 in the harbor, when 16 men, well armed, were landed 
 to procure wood, examine the country, and ascertain 
 whether it was inhabited. At night they returned, 
 loaded with juniper for firewood, not having met with 
 either houses or inhabitants. 
 
 On Monday, the 13th of November, they unshipped 
 the shallop and drew her on shore for repairs — an 
 operation which occupied seventeen days, an inju- 
 rious delay, which prevented a rapid exploration of 
 the surrounding country. The passengers generally 
 went on shore for refreshment, — a desirable change 
 after so long and tedious a voyage. 
 
 * About twenty rods from the end of Long- Point, and two miles 
 from Provincetown Village. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 51 
 
 The impatience of delay among the passengers 
 while the shallop was undergoing repairs, induced 
 several of them to volunteer their services, and to 
 travel by land along the shore. This measure was 
 ' permitted, rather than approved,' on account of the 
 dangers it involved ; and sixteen men were sent out, 
 armed with musket, sword, and corslet, conducted by 
 Capt. Miles Standish ; and William Bradford, Ste- 
 phen Hopkins and Edward Tilley were appointed as 
 counsellors. They were set on shore the 15th day of 
 November, and having marched in single file by the 
 sea shore, they discovered 5 or 6 savages approaching 
 with a dog, but on perceiving the party, they ran 
 into the woods and whistled the dog after them. 
 Fearing some ambush, the Indians were followed 
 into the woods, who upon observing this, took to rapid 
 flight. The Indians were pursued to the distance of 
 about ten miles, without being overtaken ; and night 
 coming on, preparations were made for lodging, 
 three sentinels were posted for a watch, a fire was 
 kindled, and a rendezvous held there during the night. 
 November 16th, in the morning, as soon as the Indian 
 track was discernible, they proceeded on their march 
 till they had compassed east harbor creek, and then 
 through woods, and hills, and valleys, obstructed by 
 bushes and boughs, which subjected them to great 
 fatigue, without rinding houses or people, or fresh 
 water. About ten o'clock they came to a deep valley 
 where they discovered a deer and springs of fresh 
 water, of which they were heartily glad, ' and drank,' 
 
52 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 says Gov. Bradford, 'the first New England water 
 with as much delight as ever we drunk drink in all our 
 lives.' Continuing their march south, they arrived at 
 the shore and kindled a fire, according to previous 
 arrangement, that those on board the ship might per- 
 ceive the direction in which they were traveling. 
 
 They came to a fresh pond, then to a large plain, 
 where the Indians had formerly planted corn — then 
 to another place where corn had been deposited in 
 the earth contained in a basket, holding three or four 
 bushels — with which they returned to the fresh pond 
 they had passed, and there spent the night. 
 
 The corn was taken upon this occasion, after mutual 
 consultation, with a determination to remunerate the 
 owners, whenever the opportunity should occur, which 
 they did about six months after, to their entire satis- 
 faction* 
 
 On the 17th they continued their rambles through 
 the woods and along the shores — sometimes in the 
 
 * Mr. Baylies in his memoir of Plymouth Colony, severely con- 
 demns this act. He says among other remarks, ' Had the company 
 been perishing with hunger, the appropriation of the property of others 
 might have been justified, as it was, it was inexcusable.' 
 
 In reply to the above remarks it may be observed, that the morality 
 of an action is mainly determined by the intention of the party from 
 whom it proceeds. In the next place the situation of the pilgrims, if 
 not that of actual starvation, was such as to threaten it so strongly, as 
 to render the law of self preservation applicable to their case. They 
 had been driven providentially into Cape Cod harbor, and were not vol- 
 untary intruders there. The fact of restitution afterwards showed their 
 honesty — but if the power of restitution had been wanting, their inten- 
 tion and the circumstances of the case would seem to have justified 
 the act. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 53 
 
 water up to their knees, till they arrived near the 
 ship, and shooting off their pieces as a signal, the 
 long boat was sent to receive them, and Mr. Carver, 
 and Mr. Jones, and others, came to meet them. 
 
 After the shallop had been repaired, on the 27th of 
 November another expedition was fitted out under 
 the command of Capt. Jones, consisting of thirty-four 
 persons, ten of them being seamen belonging to the 
 ship. This expedition occupied three days, and after 
 visiting Pamet River, and exploring the vicinity, 
 returned on board the ship. The question of settle- 
 ment now became a subject of discussion again, and 
 various opinions existed as to the course which ought 
 to be pursued — and some were urgent to settle at the 
 place last visited — while others were inclined to 
 attempt a settlement at Agawam, (now Ipswich,) 
 others suggested that possibly their might be not far 
 off a much better place, and eventually it was decided 
 to make some further discovery in the bay, but in no 
 case so far as Agawam. 
 
 On the 5th of December, an accident occurred 
 which might have proved serious in its consequences. 
 A son of Francis Bellington, in the absence of his 
 father, shot off a musket in the cabin of the May- 
 flower, there being at the time powder and other 
 combustibles near, but no injury was done. 
 
 On the 6th of December, another expedition was 
 resolved upon, the day previous having been stormy. 
 Ten men who were willing to embark, were appoint- 
 ed, namely, Capt. Standish, Master Carver, William 
 5* 
 
54 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Bradford, Edward Winslow, John Tilley, Edward 
 Tilley, John Howland, and three of London, Richard 
 "Warren, Stephen Hopkins and Edward Dotte, and 
 two seamen, John Alderton and Thomas English. Of 
 the ship's company there went, Master Clark and 
 Master Coppin, the master gunner, and three sailors. 
 It was late in the day before the preparations for the 
 expedition were completed, and the weather was 
 extremely severe. After clearing from the ship it 
 required some time to get underway on account of a 
 sandy point, during which two of their men were 
 sick, and Edward Tilley had nearly swooned. The 
 Gunner was also sick, and so remained all that 
 day and night. At last they cleared the sandy point, 
 set their sails, and within a few hours reached the 
 weather shore, and found smoother water. The 
 weather was so severe as to give their clothes the 
 appearance of coats of iron. After sailing six or 
 seven leagues by the shore, to a place called Billington 
 Point, they discovered, on approaching the shore, ten 
 or twelve Indians, who fled when they discovered the 
 shallop. They landed a league or two from the place 
 where the Indians were first seen, built a barricade, 
 procured wood and there spent the night. On the 
 7th of December, they coasted and explored in vari- 
 ous places — visited Eastham and Welfleet, and 
 prabably spent the night at a place called Great 
 Meadow Creek in Eastham. 
 
 At midnight a hideous noise was heard, and the 
 sentinels cried out, 'Arm! Arm!' Two muskets were 
 shot off, and the noise ceased. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 55 
 
 On the 8th of December, about five o'clock in the 
 morning, after prayer, as they were preparing for 
 breakfast, and for farther exploration, and some had 
 carried their armor to the shore, and were returning, 
 an unexpected and strange outcry was heard ; one of 
 the company being absent, coming in, exclaimed, 
 1 They are men ! Indians ! Indians ! ' on which the 
 arrows came flying thickly among them. Captain 
 Standish having his piece in readiness, made a shot 
 at the enemy, and afterwards several others did the 
 same. The contest was brought to a close by means 
 of great intrepidity on the part of the pilgrims, and 
 the enemy retreated with precipitation. 
 
 After returning thanks to God for their wonderful 
 deliverance, they took to their shallop, and called the 
 place ' The First Encounter.' The wind being fa- 
 vorable, they sailed along the coast of Barnstable Bay, 
 about forty-five miles, but saw no river or creek 
 convenient for landing. After sailing an hour or two 
 snow and rain commenced falling ; the sea became 
 rough ; the hinges of the rudder were broken, and 
 it could no longer be used ; but two men supplied its 
 place with oars. The ocean heaved with increasing 
 agitation, and they were in great anxiety and danger. 
 The night was fast gathering around them. At this 
 trying moment, Master Coppin bid them be of good 
 cheer for he saw the land ; but as they drew near it, 
 the gale increased, and heavy sail being set in order 
 to reach the harbor before dark, the mast was split in 
 three pieces, and the shallop was threatened with 
 
56 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 destruction. ? Yet by God's mercy,' says Gov. Brad- 
 ford, ' we had the flood with us, and struck into the 
 harbor. The pilot, who had bid the company be of 
 good cheer, was deceived, and when arriving at the 
 harbor exclaimed, ' Lord be merciful to us, my eyes 
 never saw this place before,' and he and the master's 
 mate would have run the shallop ashore in a cove full 
 of breakers, had not the seaman who steered, bid them 
 that rowed, ' if they were men, about with her, or 
 else they were all cast away ;' the which they did 
 with all speed,' and although it was dark and rainy, 
 they succeeded in securing a safe shelter under the 
 lee of a small island, where they spent the night.* 
 
 * In the morning they marched over the Island, but 
 found no inhabitants, making it their rendezvous, 
 being Saturday, the 10th of December. On the 
 Sabbath day we rested ; and on Monday we sounded 
 the harbor and found it a very good harbor for our 
 shipping. We marched into the land and found 
 divers corn fields, and little running brooks, a place 
 very good for situation. So we returned (the 14th) 
 to our ship with good news to our people, which did 
 much comfort our hearts. 
 
 * Clark's Island. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 57 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 Of their Landing and Settling at New Plymouth. 
 
 ' On the 15th day we weighed anchor to go to the 
 place we had discovered ; and coming within two 
 leagues of the land, we could not fetch the harbour, 
 but were fain to put round again towards Cape Cod, 
 our course lying west, and the wind was at north- 
 west. But it pleased God that the next day, being 
 Saturday the 16th day, the wind came fair, and we 
 put to sea again, and came safely into a safe harbour; 
 and within half an hour the wind changed, so as if 
 we had been letted but a little, we had gone back to 
 Cape Cod. 
 
 • This harbour is a bay greater than Cape Cod, 
 compassed with a goodly land ; and in the bay two 
 fine islands* uninhabited, wherein are nothing but 
 woods, oaks, pines, walnuts, beech, sassafras, vines, 
 and other trees which we know not. This bay is a 
 most hopeful place ; innumerable store of fowl, and 
 excellent good ; and cannot but be of fish in their 
 seasons ; skate, cod, turbot, and herring, we have tasted 
 
 * The reader will find explanations of the different points alluded 
 to in the present chapter, under the heads of Leyden street and other 
 localities described in this book. 
 
58 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 of; abundance of muscles, the greatest and best that 
 ever we saw ; crabs and lobsters, in their time, infinite. 
 It is in fashion like a sickle, or fish-hook. 
 
 1 Monday, the 18th day, we went a land,* manned 
 with the master of the ship and three or four of the 
 sailors. We marched along the coast in the woods 
 some seven or eight miles, but saw not an Indian nor 
 an Indian house ; only we found where formerly had 
 been some inhabitants, and where they had planted 
 their corn. We found not any navigable river, but 
 four or five small running brooks of very sweet fresh 
 water, that all run into the sea. The land for the 
 crust of the earth is, a spit's depth, excellent black 
 mould, and fat in some places ; two or three great 
 oaks, but not very thick, pines, walnuts, beech, ash, 
 birch, hazel, holly, asp, sassafras in abundance, and 
 vines every where, cherry trees, plum trees, and 
 many others which we know not. Many kinds of 
 herbs we found here in winter, as strawberry leaves 
 innumerable, sorrel, yarrow, carvel, brooklime, liver- 
 wort, water-cresses, great store of leeks and onions, 
 and an excellent strong kind of flax and hemp. Here 
 is sand, gravel, and excellent clay, no better in the 
 world, excellent for pots, and will wash like soap, and 
 great store of stone, though somewhat soft, and the 
 best water that ever we drunk ; and the brooks now 
 begin to be full of fish. That night, many being 
 weary with marching, we went aboard again. 
 
 1 The next morning, being Tuesday, the 19th of De« 
 
 • The words ' in a long- boat,' are here omitted. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 59 
 
 cember, we went again to discover further; some 
 went on land, and some in the shallop. The land we 
 found as the former day we did ; and we found a 
 creek, and went up three English miles, a very pleas- 
 ant river at full sea. A bark of thirty tons may go 
 up ; but at low water scarce our shallop could pass. 
 This place we had a great liking to plant in, but that 
 it was so far from our fishing, our principal profit, and 
 so encompassed with woods, that we should be in 
 much danger of the salvages; and our number being 
 so little, and so much ground to clear; so as we 
 thought good to quit and clear that place till we were 
 of more strength. Some of us, having a good mind, 
 for safety, to plant in the greater isle, we crossed the 
 bay, which is there five or six miles over, and found 
 the isle about a mile and a half or two miles about, 
 all wooded, and no fresh water but two or three pits, 
 that we doubted of fresh water in summer, and so 
 full of wood as we could hardly clear so much as to 
 serve us for corn. Besides, we judged it cold for 
 our corn, and some part very rocky ; yet divers 
 thought of it as a place defensible, and of great 
 security. That night we returned again a shipboard, 
 with resolution the next morning to settle on some of 
 those places. 
 
 1 So in the morning, after we had called on God for 
 direction, we came to this resolution, to go presently 
 ashore again, and to take a better view of two places 
 which we thought most fitting for us ; for we could 
 not now take time for further search or consideration 
 
60 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 our victuals being much spent, especially our beer, 
 and it being now the 19th of December. After our 
 landing and viewing of the places, so well as we 
 could, we came to a conclusion, by most voices, to set 
 on the main land, on the first place, on a high ground, 
 where there is a great deal of land cleared, and hath 
 been planted with corn three or four years ago ; and 
 there is a very sweet brook runs under the hill side, 
 and many delicate springs of as good water as can be 
 drunk, and where we may harbour our shallops and 
 boats exceeding well ;• and in this brook much good 
 fish in their seasons ; on the further side of the river 
 also much corn-ground cleared. In one field is a 
 great hill, on which we point to make a platform, and 
 plant our ordnance, which will command all round 
 about. From thence we may see into the bay, and 
 far into the sea ; and we may see thence Cape Cod. 
 Our greatest labor will be fetching of our wood, which 
 is half a quarter of an English mile ; but there is 
 enough so far off. What people inhabit here we yet 
 know not, for as yet we have seen none. So there 
 we made our rendezvous, and a place for some of our 
 people, about twenty, resolving in the morning to come 
 all ashore and to build houses. 
 
 'But the next morning, being Thursday, the 21st of 
 December, it was stormy and wet, that we could not 
 go ashore ; and those that remained there all night 
 could do nothing, but were wet, not having daylight 
 enough to make them a sufficient court of guard, to 
 keep them dry. All that night it blew and rained 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 61 
 
 extremely. It was so tempestuous that the shallop 
 could not go on land so soon as was meet, for they 
 had no victuals on land. About eleven o'clock the 
 shallop went off with much ado with provision, but 
 could not return, it blew so strong ; and was such foul 
 weather that we were forced to let fall our anchor, and 
 ride with three anchors ahead. 
 
 ' Friday, the 22d, the storm still continued, that we 
 could not get a land, nor they come to us aboard. 
 This morning goodwife Alderton, was delivered of a 
 son, but dead born. 
 
 1 Saturday, the 23d, so many of us as could went on 
 shore, felled and carried timber, to provide themselves 
 stuff for building. 
 
 5 Sunday, the 24th, our people on shore heard a cry 
 of some savages, as they thought, which caused an 
 alarm, and to stand on their guard, expecting an as- 
 sault ; but all was quiet. 
 
 ' Monday, the 25th day, we went on shore, some to 
 fell timber, some to saw, some to rive, and some to 
 carry ; so no man rested all that day. But, towards 
 night, some, as they were at work, heard a noise of 
 some Indians, which caused us all to go to our mus- 
 kets ; but we heard no further. So we came aboard 
 again, and left some twenty to keep the court of 
 guard. That night we had a sore storm of wind and 
 rain. 
 
 1 Monday, the 25th, being Christmas day, we began 
 to drink water aboard. But at night the master caused 
 us to have some beer ; and so on board we had divers 
 6 
 
62 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 times, now and then some beer, but on shore none at 
 all. 
 
 ' Tuesday, the 26th, it was foul weather, that we 
 could not go ashore. 
 
 1 Wednesday, the 27th, we went to work again. 
 
 ' Thursday, the 28th of December, so many as could 
 went to work on the hill, where we purposed to build 
 our platform for our ordnance, and which doth com- 
 mand ail the plain and the bay, and from whence we 
 may see far into the sea, and might be easier impaled, 
 having two rows of houses and a fair street. So in 
 the afternoon we went to measure out the grounds, 
 and first we took notice how many families there 
 were, willing all single men that had no wives to join 
 with some family, as they thought fit, that so we 
 might build fewer houses; which was done, and we 
 reduced them to nineteen families. To greater fam- 
 ilies we allotted larger plots ; to every person half a 
 pole in breadth, and three in length ; and so lots were 
 cast where every man should lie ; which was done, 
 and staked out. We thought this proportion was 
 large enough at the first, for houses and gardens to 
 impale them round, considering the weakness of our 
 people, many of them growing ill with colds; for our 
 former discoveries in frost and storms, and the wad- 
 ing at Cape Cod had brought much weakness amongst 
 us, which increased so every day more and more, and 
 after was the cause of many of their deaths. 
 
 * Friday and Saturday we fitted ourselves for our 
 labor ; but our people on shore were much troubled 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OP THE PILGRIMS. 63 
 
 and discouraged with rain and wet that day, being very 
 stormy and cold. We saw great smokes of fire made 
 by the Indians, about six or seven miles from us, as 
 we conjectured. 
 
 • Monday, the 1st of January, we went betimes to 
 work. We were much hindered in lying so far off 
 from the land, and fain to go as the tide served, that 
 we lost much time ; for our ship drew so much water 
 that she lay a mile and almost a half off, though a 
 ship of seventy or eighty tons at high water may come 
 to the shore. 
 
 ■ Wednesday, the 3d of January, some of our people 
 being abroad to get and gather thatch, they saw great 
 fires of the Indians ; and were at their corn-fields, yet 
 saw none of the savages, nor had seen any of them 
 since we came to this bay. 
 
 * Thursday, the 4th of January, Captain Miles Stan- 
 dish, with four or five more, went to see if they could 
 meet with any of the savages in that place where the 
 fires were made. They went to some of their houses, 
 but not lately inhabited ; yet could they not meet with 
 any. As they came home, they shot at an eagle and 
 killed her, which was excellent meat ; it was hardly 
 to be discerned from mutton. 
 
 'Friday, the 5th of January, one of the sailors found 
 alive upon the shore a herring, which the master had 
 to his supper ; whicn* put us in hopes of fish, but as 
 yet we had got but one cod ; we wanted small 
 hooks. 
 
 ' Saturday, the 6th of January, Master Marten was 
 
64 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 very sick, and, to our judgment, no hope of life. So 
 Master Carver was sent for to come aboard to speak 
 with him about his accounts ; who came the next 
 morning. 
 
 ' Monday, the 8th of January, was a very fair day, 
 and we went betimes to work. Master Jones sent 
 the shallop, as he had formerly done, to see where 
 fish could be got. They had a great storm at sea, 
 and were in some danger. At night they returned 
 with three great seals, and an excellent good cod, 
 which did assure us that we should have plenty of 
 fish shortly. 
 
 1 This day Francis Billington, having the week be- 
 fore seen from the top of a tree on a high hill a great 
 sea, as he thought, went with one of the master's 
 mates to see it. They went three miles and then 
 came to a great water, divided into two great lakes ; 
 the bigger of them five or six miles in curcuit, and in 
 it an isle of a cable length square ; the other three 
 miles in compass, in their estimation. They are fine 
 fresh water, full of fish and fowl. A brook issues 
 from it ; it will be an excellent place for us in time. 
 They found seven or eight Indian houses, but not 
 lately inhabited. When they saw the houses, they 
 were in some fear ; for they were but two persons, 
 and one piece. 
 
 ' Tuesday, the 9th of January, was a reasonable fair 
 day ; and we went to labor that day in the building 
 of our town, in two rows of houses, for more safety. 
 We divided by lot the plot of ground whereon to build 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 65 
 
 our town, after the proportion formerly allotted. We 
 agreed that every man should build his own house, 
 thinking by that course men would make more haste 
 than working in common. The common house, in 
 which for the first we made our rendezvous, being 
 near finished, wanted only covering, it being about 
 twenty foot square. Some should make mortar, and 
 some gather thatch ; so that in four days half of it was 
 thatched. Frost and foul weather hindered us much. 
 This time of the year seldom could we work half the 
 week. 
 
 'Thursday, the 11th, William Bradford being at 
 work (for it was a fair day,) was vehemently taken 
 with a grief and pain, and so shot to his huckle-bone, 
 it was doubted that he would have instantly died. 
 He got cold in the former discoveries, especially the 
 last ; and felt some pain in his ancles by times ; but 
 he grew a little better towards night, and in time, 
 through God's mercy, in the use of means, recovered. 
 
 1 Friday, the 12th, we went to work ; but about noon 
 it began to rain, that it forced us to give over work. 
 
 1 This day two of our people put us in great sorrow 
 and care. There was four sent to gather and cut 
 thatch in the morning ; and two of them, John Good- 
 man and Peter Browne, having cut thatch all the 
 forenoon, went to a further place, and willed the other 
 two to bind up that which was cut, and to follow them. 
 So they did, being about a mile and a half from our 
 plantation. But when the two came after, they could 
 not find them, nor hear any thing of them at all, 
 6* 
 
66 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 though they hallooed and shouted as loud as they 
 could. So they returned to the company, and told 
 them of it. "Whereupon Master Carver, and three 
 or four more went to seek them; but could hear 
 nothing of them. So they returning, sent more ; but 
 that night they could hear nothing at all of them. 
 The next day they armed ten or twelve men out, 
 verily thinking the Indians had surprised them. They 
 went seeking seven or eight miles ; but could neither 
 see nor hear any thing at all. So they returned, with 
 much discomfort to us all. 
 
 1 These two that were missed at dinner time, took 
 their meat in their hands, and would go walk and 
 refresh themselves. So going a little off, they find a 
 lake of water, and having a great mastiff bitch with 
 them and a spaniel, by the water side they found a 
 great deer. The dogs chased him ; and they followed 
 so far as they lost themselves, and they could not 
 find the way back. They wandered all that after- 
 noon, being wet; and at night it did freeze and snow, 
 They were slenderly apparelled, and had no weapons 
 but each one his sickle, nor any victuals. They 
 ranged up and down and could find none of the sal- 
 vages' habitations. When it drew to night, they 
 were much perplexed ; for they could find neither 
 harbour nor meat ; but, in frost and snow, were forced 
 to make the earth their bed and the element their 
 covering. And another thing did very much terrify 
 them ; they heard, as they thought, two lions roaring 
 exceedingly for a long time together, and a third that 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 67 
 
 they thought was very near them. So not knowing what 
 to do, they resolved to climb up into a tree, as their saf- 
 est refuge, though that would prove an intolerable cold 
 lodging. So they stood at the tree's root, that when 
 the lions came, they might take their opportunity of 
 climbing up. The bitch they were fain to hold by 
 the neck, for she would have been gone to the lion. 
 But it pleased God so to dispose, that the wild beasts 
 came not. So they walked up and down under the 
 tree all night. It was an extreme cold night. So 
 soon as it was light, they travelled again, passing by 
 many lakes and brooks and woods, and in one place 
 where the salvages had burnt the space of five miles 
 in length, which is a fine champaign country, and 
 even. In the afternoon, it pleased God from a high 
 hill they discovered the two isles in the bay, and so 
 that night got to the plantation, being ready to faint 
 with travail and want of victuals, and almost famished 
 with cold. John Goodman was fain to have his 
 shoes cut off his feet, they were so swelled with cold ; 
 and it was a long while after ere he was able to go. 
 Those on the shore were much comforted at their 
 return ; but they on shipboard were grieved at deem- 
 ing them lost. 
 
 ' But the next day, being the 14th of January, in 
 the morning about six of the clock, the wind being 
 very great, they on shipboard spied their great new 
 rendezvous on fire ; which was to them a new dis- 
 comfort, fearing, because of the supposed loss of the 
 men, that the salvages had fired them. Neither could 
 
68 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 they presently go to them, for want of water. But 
 after three quarters of an hour they went, as they 
 had purposed the day before to keep the Sabbath on 
 shore, because now there was the greater number of 
 people. At their landing they heard good tidings of 
 the return of the two men, and that the house was 
 fired occasionally by a spark that flew into the thatch, 
 which instantly burnt it all up ; but the roof stood, and 
 little hurt. The most lost, was Master Carver's and 
 William Bradford's, who then lay sick in bed, and if 
 they had not risen with good speed, had been blown 
 up with powder ; but, through God's mercy, they had 
 no harm. The house was as full of beds as they could 
 lie one by another, and their muskets charged ; but, 
 blessed be God, there was no harm done. 
 
 1 Monday, the 15th day, it rained much all day, that 
 they on shipboard could not go on shore, nor they on 
 shore do any labor, but were all wet. 
 
 1 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, were very fair, 
 sunshiny days, as if it had been in April ; and our 
 people, so many as were in health, wrought cheer- 
 fully. 
 
 ' The 19th day we resolved to make a shed to put 
 our common provision in, of which some were already 
 set on shore ; but at noon it rained, that we could not 
 work. This day, in the evening, John Goodman went 
 abroad to use his lame feet, that were pitifully ill with 
 the cold he had got, having a little spaniel with him. 
 A little way from the plantation two great wolves ran 
 after the dog ; the dog ran to him and betwixt his legs 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 69 
 
 for succour. He had nothing in his hand, but took up 
 a stick and threw at one of them and hit him, and 
 they presently ran both away, but came again. He 
 got a pale -board in his hand ; and they sat both on 
 their tails grinning at him a good while ; and went 
 their way and left him. 
 
 1 Saturday 20th, we made up our shed for our com- 
 mon goods. 
 
 ' Sunday, the 21st, we kept our meeting on land. 
 
 1 Monday, the 22d, was a fair day. We wrought 
 on our houses ; and in the afternoon carried up our 
 hogsheads of meal to our common storehouse. 
 The rest of the week we followed our business like- 
 wise. 
 
 ' Monday, the 29th, in the morning, cold, frost, and 
 sleet ; but after reasonable fair. Both the long-boat 
 and the shallop brought our common goods on shore. 
 
 1 Tuesday and Wednesday, 30th and 31st of Jan- 
 uary, cold, frosty weather and sleet, that we could 
 not work. In the morning, the master and others 
 saw two savages, that had been on the island near 
 our ship. What they came for we could not tell. 
 They were going so far back again before they were 
 descried, that we could not speak with them. 
 
 ' Sunday, the 4th of February, was very wet and 
 rainy, with the greatest gusts of wind that ever we 
 had since we came forth ; that though we rid in a very 
 good harbour, yet we were in danger, because our 
 ship was light, the goods taken out, and she unbal- 
 lasted ; and it caused much daubing of our houses to 
 fall down. 
 
70 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 1 Friday, the 9lh, still the cold weather continued, 
 that we could do little work. That afternoon, our 
 little house for our sick people was set on fire by a 
 spark that kindled in the roof; but no great harm was 
 done. That evening, the master going ashore, killed 
 five geese, which he friendly distributed among the 
 sick people. He found also a good deer killed. The 
 savages had cut off the horns, and a wolf was eating 
 of him. How he came there we could not conceive. 
 
 ' Friday, the 16th, was a fair day ; but the northerly 
 wind continued, which continued the frost. This day, 
 after noon, one of our people being a fowling, and 
 having taken a stand by a creek side in the reeds, 
 about a mile and a half from our plantation, there 
 came by him twelve Indians, marching towards our 
 plantation, and in 'the woods he heard the noise of 
 many more. He lay close till they were passed, and 
 then with what speed he could he went home and 
 gave the alarm. So the people abroad in the woods 
 returned and armed themselves, but saw none of 
 them ; only, towards the evening, they made a great 
 fire about the place where they were first discovered. 
 Captain Miles Standish and Francis Cooke being at 
 work in the woods, coming home left their tools 
 behind them ; but before they returned, their tools 
 were taken away by the savages. This coming of 
 the savages gave us occasion to keep more strict 
 watch, and to make our pieces and furniture ready, 
 which by the moisture and rain were out of temper. 
 ' Saturday, the 17th day, in the morning, we called 
 
' 
 
 RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 71 
 
 a meeting for the establishing of military orders 
 among ourselves ; and we chose Miles Standish our 
 captain, and gave him authority of command in affairs. 
 And as we were in consultation hereabouts, two sav- 
 ages presented themselves upon the top of a hill, over 
 against our plantation, about a quarter of a mile and 
 less, and made signs unto us to come unto them ; we 
 likewise made signs unto them to come to us. 
 Whereupon we armed ourselves and stood ready, and 
 sent two over the brook towards them, to wit, Captain 
 Standish and Stephen Hopkins, who went towards 
 them. Only one of them had a musket, which they 
 laid down on the ground in their sight, in sign of 
 peace, and to parley with them. But the savages 
 would not tarry their coming. A noise of a great 
 many more was heard behind the hill ; but no more 
 came in sight. This caused us to plant our great 
 ordnances in places most convenient. 
 
 • Wednesday, the 21st of Feburary,the master came 
 on shore, with many of his sailors, and brought with 
 him one of the great pieces, called a minion, and 
 helped us to draw it up the hill, with another piece 
 that lay on shore, and mounted them, and a sailer,, 
 and two bases. He brought with him a very fat 
 goose to eat with us, and we had a fat crane and a 
 mallard, and a dried neat's tongue ; and so we were 
 kindly and friendly together. 
 
 ' Saturday, the 3d of March, the wind was south, 
 the morning misty, but towards noon warm and fair 
 weather. The birds sang in the woods most pleas- 
 
72 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND „ 
 
 antly. At one of the clock it thundered, which was 
 the first we heard in that country. It was strong and 
 great claps, but short ; but after an hour it rained very 
 sadly till midnight. 
 
 • Wednesday, the 7th of March, the wind was full 
 east, cold, but fair. That day, Master Carver, with 
 five others, went to the great ponds, which seem to 
 be excellent fishing places. All the way they went 
 they found it exceedingly beaten, and haunted with 
 deer; but they saw none. Amongst other fowl they 
 saw one, a milk-white fowl, with a very black head. 
 This day some garden seeds were sown. 
 
 1 Friday, the 16th, a fair warm day towards. This 
 morning we determined to conclude of the military 
 orders, which we had begun to consider of before, but 
 were interrupted by the savages, as we mentioned 
 formerly. And whilst we were busied hereabout, we 
 were interrupted again ; for there presented himself a 
 savage, which caused an alarm. He very boldly 
 came all alone, and along the houses, straight to the 
 rendezvous ; where we intercepted him, not suffering 
 him to go in, as undoubtedly he would out of his 
 boldness. He saluted us in English, and bade us 
 1 Welcome ; ' for he had learned some broken English 
 among the Englishmen that came to fish at Monhig- 
 gon, and knew by name most of the captains, com- 
 manders, and masters that usually come. He was a 
 man free in speech so far as he could express his 
 mind, and of a seemly carriage. We questioned him 
 of many things ; he was the first savage we could 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 73 
 
 meet withal. He said he was not of these parts, but 
 of Morattiggon, and one of the sagamores or lords 
 thereof; and had been eight months in these parts, it 
 lying hence a day's sail with a great wind, and five 
 days by land. He discoursed of the whole country, 
 and of every province, and of their sagamores, and 
 their number of men and strength. The wind begin- 
 ning to rise a little, we cast a horseman's coat about 
 him ; for he was stark naked, only a leather about 
 his waist, with a fringe about a span long or little 
 more. He had a bow and two arrows, the one headed, 
 and the other unheaded. He was a tall, straight man, 
 the hair of his head black, long behind, only short 
 before, none on his face at all. He asked some beer,, 
 but we gave him strong water, and biscuit, and butter, 
 and cheese, and pudding, and a piece of mallard ; all 
 which he liked well, and had been acquainted with 
 such amongst the English. He told us the place 
 where we now lived is called Patuxet, and that about 
 four years ago all the inhabitants died of an extraor- 
 dinary plague, and there is neither man, woman, nor 
 child remaining, as indeed we have found none ; so 
 as there is none to hinder our possession, or to lay 
 claim unto it. All the afternoon we spent in com- 
 munication with him. We would gladly have been 
 rid of him at night, but he was not willing to go this 
 night. Then we thought to carry him on shipboard, 
 wherewith he was well content, and went into the 
 shallop ; but the wind was high and the water 
 scant, that it could not return back. We lodged him 
 7 
 
74 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 that night at Steven Hopkins's house, and watched 
 .him. 
 
 ' The next day he went away back to the Masasoits, 
 afrom whence he said he came, who are our next 
 bordering neighbors. They are sixty strong, as he 
 saith. The Nausites are as near southeast of them, 
 and are a hundred strong ; and those were they of 
 whom our people were encountered, as we before 
 related. They are much incensed and provoked 
 against the English ; and about eight months ago 
 slew three Englishmen, and two more hardly escaped 
 by flight to Monhiggon. They were Sir Ferdinando 
 Gorge's men, as this savage told us ; as he did like- 
 wise of the huggery, that is, fight, that our discoverers 
 had with the Nausites, and of our tools that were 
 taken out of the woods, which we willed him should 
 be brought again ; otherwise we would right our- 
 selves. These people are ill affected towards the 
 English by reason of one Hunt, a master of a ship, 
 who deceived the people and got them, under color 
 of trucking with them, twenty out of this very place 
 where we inhabit, and seven men from the Nau- 
 sites, and carried them away, and sold them for 
 slaves, like a wretched man (for twenty pound a 
 man,) that cares not what mischief he doth for his 
 profit. 
 
 1 Saturday, in the morning, we dismissed the sal- 
 vage, and gave him a knife, a bracelet, and a ring. 
 He promised within a night or two to come again and 
 to bring with him some of the Massasoyts, our neigh- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 75 
 
 bours, with such beavers' skins as they had to truck 
 with us. 
 
 ' Saturday and Sunday reasonable fair days. On 
 this day came again the savage, and brought with 
 him five other tall, proper men. They had every 
 man a deer's skin on him, and the principal of them 
 had a wild cat's skin, or such like, on the one arm. 
 They had most of them long hosen up to their groins, 
 close made, and above their groins to their waist 
 another leather ; they were altogether like the Irish 
 trousers. They are of complexion like our English 
 gipseys ; no hair or very little on their faces ; on their 
 heads long hair to their shoulders, only cut before ; 
 some trussed up before with a feather, broad-wise, 
 like a fan ; another a fox tail, hanging out. These 
 left (according to our charge given him before) their 
 bows and arrows a quarter of a mile from our town. 
 We gave them entertainment as we thought was 
 fitting them. They did eat liberally of our English 
 victuals. They made semblance unto us of friend- 
 ship and amity. They sang and danced after their 
 manner, like antics. They brought with them in a 
 thing like a bow-case, (which the principal of them 
 had about his waist,) a little of their corn pounded 
 to powder, which, put to a little water, they eat. 
 He had a little tobacco in a bag ; but none of them 
 drank but when he liked. Some of them had their 
 faces painted black, from the forehead to the chin, 
 four or five fingers broad ; others after other fashions, 
 as they liked. They brought three or four skins ; but 
 
76 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 we would not truck with them at all that day, but 
 wished them to bring more, and we would truck for 
 all ; which they promised within a night or two, and 
 would leave these behind them, though we were not 
 willing they should ; and they brought us all our 
 tools again, which were taken in the woods, in our 
 men's absence. So, because of the day, we dismissed 
 them so soon as we could. But Samoset, our first 
 acquaintance, either was sick or feigned himself so, 
 and would not go with them, and stayed with us till 
 "Wednesday morning. ' Then we sent him to them, 
 to know the reason they came not according to their 
 words ; and we gave him a hat, a pair of stockings 
 and shoes, a shirt, and a piece of cloth to tie about 
 his waist. 
 
 1 The Sabbath day, when we sent them from us, 
 we gave every one of them some trifles, especially 
 the principal of them. We carried them, along with 
 our arms, to the place where they left their bows and 
 arrows ; whereat they were amazed, and two of them 
 began to slink away, but that the other called them. 
 When they took their arrows we bade them farewell, 
 and they were glad ; and so, with many thanks given 
 us, they departed, with promise they would come 
 again. 
 
 ' Monday and Tuesday proved fair days. We 
 digged our grounds and sowed our garden seeds. 
 
 ' Wednesday, a fine warm day. We sent away 
 Samoset. 
 
 ' That day we had again a meeting to conclude of 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 77 
 
 laws and orders for ourselves, and to confirm those 
 military orders that were formerly propounded, and 
 twice broken off by the savages' coming. But so we 
 were again the third time ; for after we had been an 
 hour together, on the top of the hill over against us, 
 two or three savages presented themselves, that made 
 semblance of daring us, as we thought. So Captain 
 Standish with another, with their muskets, went 
 over to them, with two of the master's mates that 
 follows them without arms, having two muskets 
 with them. They whetted and rubbed their arrows 
 and strings, and made show of defiance ; but when 
 our men drew near them, they ran away. Thus 
 were we again interrupted by them. This day, with 
 much ado, we got our carpenter, that had been long 
 sick of the scurvy, to fit our shallop to fetch all from 
 aboard. 
 
 • Thursday, the 22d of March, was a very fair, 
 warm day. About noon we met again about our 
 public business. But we had scarce been an hour 
 together, but Samoset came again, and Squanto, the 
 only native of Patuxet, where we now inhabit, who 
 was one of the twenty captives that by Hunt were 
 carried away, and had been in England, and dwelt 
 in Cornhill with Master John Slanie, a merchant, and 
 could speak a little English, with three others ; and> 
 they brought with them some few skins to truck, 
 and some red herrings, newly taken and dried, but 
 not salted; and signified unto us that their great sag- 
 amore, Massasoyt, was hard by, with Quadequina, 
 7* 
 
78 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 his brother, and all their men. They could not well 
 express in English what they would ; but after an 
 hour the king came to the top of a hill over against 
 us, and had in his train sixty men, that we could well 
 behold them, and they us. We were not willing to 
 send our governor to them, and they were unwilling 
 to come to us. So Squanto went again unto him, 
 who brought word that we should send one to parley 
 with him, which we did, which was Edward Winsloe, 
 to know his mind, and to signify the mind and will 
 of our governor, which was to have trading and peace 
 with him. We sent to the king a pair of knives, and 
 a copper chain with a jewel at it. To Quadequina 
 we sent likewise a knife, and a jewel to hang in his 
 ear, and withal a pot of strong water, a good quantity 
 of biscuit, and some butter ; which were all willingly 
 accepted. 
 
 ' Our messenger made a speech unto him, that 
 King James saluted him with words of love and 
 peace, and did accept of him as his friend and ally ; 
 and that our governor desired to see him and to truck 
 with him, and to confirm a peace with him, as his 
 next neighbour. He liked well of the speech, and 
 heard it attentively, though the interpreters did not 
 well express it. After he had eaten and drunk him- 
 self, and given the rest to his company, he looked 
 upon our messenger's sword and armor, which he had 
 on, with intimation of his desire to buy it ; but, on the 
 other side, our messenger showed his unwillingness 
 to part with it. In the end, he left him in the custody 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 79 
 
 of Quadequina, his brother, and came over the brook, 
 and some twenty men followed him, leaving all their 
 bows and arrows behind them. We kept six or 
 seven as hostages for our messenger. Captain Stan- 
 dish and Master Williamson met the king at the 
 brook, with half a dozen musketeers. They saluted 
 him, and he them ; so one going over, the one on the 
 one side, and the other on the other, conducted him 
 to a house then in building, where we placed a green 
 rug and three or four cushions. Then instantly came 
 our governor, with drum and trumpet after him, and 
 some few musketeers. After salutations, our gover- 
 nor kissing his hand, the king kissed him ; and so they 
 sat down. The governor called for some strong 
 water, and drunk to him ; and he drunk a great 
 draught, that made him sweat all the while after. 
 He called for a little fresh meat, which the king did 
 eat willingly, and did give his followers. Then they 
 treated of peace, which was : 
 
 ' 1. That neither he nor any of his should injure or 
 do hurt to any of our people. 
 
 '■ 2. And if any of his did hurt to any of ours, he 
 should send the offender, that we might punish him. 
 
 '3. That if any of our tools were taken away, 
 when our people were at work, he should cause 
 them to be restored ; and if ours did any harm to 
 any of his, we would do the like to them. 
 
 ? 4. If any did unjustly war against him, we would 
 aid him; if any did war against us, he should aid us. 
 
 ' 5. He should send to his neighbour confederates 
 
80 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 to certify them of this, that they might not wrong us, 
 but might be likewise comprised in the conditions of 
 peace. 
 
 1 6. That when their men came to us, they should 
 leave their bows and arrows behind them, as we 
 should do our pieces when we came to them. 
 
 ' Lastly, that doing thus, King James would esteem 
 of him as his friend and ally. 
 
 'All which the King seemed to like well, and it was 
 applauded of his followers. All the while he sat by 
 the governor, he trembled for fear. In his person he 
 is a very lusty man, in his best years, an able body, 
 grave of countenance, and spare of speech; in his 
 attire little or nothing differing from the rest of his 
 followers, only in a great chain of white bone beads 
 about his neck; and at it, behind his neck, hangs a 
 little bag of tobacco, which he drank, and gave us to 
 drink. His face was painted with a sad red, like 
 murrey, and oiled both head and face, that he looked 
 greasily. All his followers likewise were in their 
 faces, in part or in whole, painted, some black, some 
 red, some yellow, and some white, some with crosses, 
 and other antic works ; some had skins on them, and 
 some naked ; all strong, tall men in appearance. 
 
 ' So after all was done, the governor conducted him 
 to the brook, and there they embraced each other, 
 and he departed ; we diligently keeping our hostages. 
 We expected our messenger's coming ; but anon 
 word was brought us that Quadequina was coming, 
 and our messenger was stayed till his return; who 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 8l 
 
 presently came, and a troop with him. So likewise 
 we entertained him, and conveyed him to the place 
 prepared. He was very feaiful of our pieces, and 
 made signs of dislike, that they should be carried 
 away ; whereupon commandment was given they 
 should be laid away. He was a very proper, tall 
 young man, of a very modest and seemly counte- 
 nance, and he did kindly like of our entertainment. 
 So we conveyed him likewise, as we did the king ; 
 but divers of their people stayed still. When he 
 was returned, then they dismissed our messenger. 
 Two of his people would have stayed all night ; but 
 we would not suffer it. One thing I forgot ; the king 
 had in his bosom, hanging in a string, a great long 
 knife. He marvelled much at our trumpet, and some 
 of his men would sound it as well as they could. 
 Samoset and Squanto, they stayed all night with us ; 
 and the king and all his men lay all night in the 
 woods not above half an English mile from us, and 
 all their wives and women with them. They said 
 that within eight or nine days they would come and 
 set corn on the other side of the brook, and dwell 
 there all summer; which is hard by us. That night 
 we kept good watch ; but there was no appearance 
 of danger. 
 
 • The next morning, divers of their people came 
 over to us, hoping to get some victuals, as we imag- 
 ined. Some of them told us the king would have 
 some of us come see him. Captain Standish and 
 Isaac Alderton went venturously, who were wel- 
 
82 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 corned of him after their manner. He gave them 
 three or four ground-nuts and some tobacco. We 
 cannot yet conceive but that he is willing to have 
 peace with us ; for they have seen our people some- 
 times alone two or three in the woods at work and 
 fowling, whenas they offered them no harm, as they 
 might easily have done ; and especially because he 
 hath a potent adversary, the Narowhigansets, that 
 are at war with him, against whom he thinks we 
 may be some strength to him ; for our pieces are ter- 
 rible unto them. This morning they staid till ten or 
 eleven of the clock; and our governor bid them 
 send the king's kettle, and filled it full of pease, 
 which pleased them well* and so they went their 
 way. 
 
 ' Friday was a very fair day. Samoset and Squanto 
 still remained with us. Squanto went at noon to fish 
 for eels. At night he came home with as many as 
 he could well lift in one hand; which our people 
 were glad of; they were fat and sweet. He trod 
 them out with his feet, and so caught them with his 
 hands, without any other instrument. 
 
 1 This day we proceeded on with our common busi- 
 ness, from which we had been so often hindered by 
 the salvages' coming ; and concluded both of military 
 orders and of some laws and orders as we thought 
 behoovefnl for our present estate and condition ; and 
 did likewise choose our governor for this year, which 
 was Master John Carver, a man well approved 
 (See Appendix, C.) 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 83 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 The visit of Winslow and Hopkins to Pokanoket — 
 arrival of the Ship Fortune — Eward Wins- 
 low's letter to George Morton. 
 
 The preceding chapter contains the most minute 
 account on record, of the daily transactions immedi- 
 ately after the landing of the Pilgrims, penned by one 
 or more of their own number, and enables us in some 
 good degree, to identify ourselves with the hopes, 
 fears, and labors, incident to that eventful period of 
 their history. 
 
 The appearance of Samoset, was not only an unex- 
 pected occurrence, but one of great importance to the 
 pilgrims, previous to which, no intercourse had oc- 
 curred between them and the surrounding natives. 
 The first encounter at Nauset, (Eastham,) had doubt- 
 less left an unfavorable impression on the minds of 
 the savages, and could not have failed, strongly to 
 excite their hostility against those who were doubt- 
 less regarded in no better light than as lawless 
 intruders. , 
 
 The treacherous conduct of Hunt, some years 
 before, in the abduction of several Indians belonging 
 to Nauset, had inspired an indignation, which at last 
 burst upon the unoffending heads of the pilgrims. 
 This rencounter was unquestionably blazoned 
 abroad, throughout the whole Indian country, with a 
 
82 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 corned of him after their manner. He gave them 
 three or four ground-nuts and some tobacco. We 
 cannot yet conceive but that he is willing to have 
 peace with us ; for they have seen our people some- 
 times alone two or three in the woods at work and 
 fowling, whenas they offered them no harm, as they 
 might easily have done ; and especially because he 
 hath a potent adversary, the Narowhigansets, that 
 are at war with him, against whom he thinks we 
 may be some strength to him ; for our pieces are ter- 
 rible unto them. This -morning they staid till ten or 
 eleven of the clock; and our governor bid them 
 send the king's kettle, and filled it full of pease, 
 which pleased them well* and so they went their 
 way. 
 
 ' Friday was a very fair day. Samoset and Squanto 
 still remained with us. Squanto went at noon to fish 
 for eels. At night he came home with as many as 
 he could well lift in one hand; which our people 
 were glad of; they were fat and sweet. He trod 
 them out with his feet, and so caught them with his 
 hands, without any other instrument. 
 
 ' This day we proceeded on with our common busi- 
 ness, from which we had been so often hindered by 
 the salvages' coming ; and concluded both of military 
 orders and of some laws and orders as we thought 
 behooveful for our present estate and condition ; and 
 did likewise choose our governor for this year, which 
 was Master John Carver, a man well approved 
 (See Appendix, C.) 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 83 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 The visit of Winslow and Hopkins to Pokanoket — 
 arrival of the Ship Fortune — Eward Wins- 
 low's letter to George Morton. 
 
 The preceding chapter contains the most minute 
 account on record, of the daily transactions immedi- 
 ately after the landing of the Pilgrims, penned by one 
 or more of their own number, and enables us in some 
 good degree, to identify ourselves with the hopes, 
 fears, and labors, incident to that eventful period of 
 their history. 
 
 The appearance of Samoset, was not only an unex- 
 pected occurrence, but one of great importance to the 
 pilgrims, previous to which, no intercourse had oc- 
 curred between them and the surrounding natives. 
 The first encounter at Nauset, (Eastham,) had doubt- 
 less left an unfavorable impression on the minds of 
 the savages, and could not have failed, strongly to 
 excite their hostility against those who were doubt- 
 less regarded in no better light than as lawless 
 intruders. / 
 
 The treacherous conduct of Hunt, some years 
 before, in the abduction of several Indians belonging 
 to Nauset, had inspired an indignation, which at last 
 burst upon the unoffending heads of the pilgrims. 
 This rencounter was unquestionably blazoned 
 abroad, throughout the whole Indian country, with a 
 
86 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 shocked, at an act, justified by necessity, and per- 
 formed at the time, with a sincere purpose of restitu- 
 tion, which was tendered and accepted, upon the first 
 occasion that offered. 
 
 The messengers left Plymouth about nine o'clock 
 on Tuesday morning, July 3d. On the way, they 
 met ten or twelve men, women and children, who 
 according to their customary wandering life, had 
 resorted to the sea shore for lobsters and other shell 
 fish, and now returned with them to Namasket* 
 where they arrived at about three o'clock in the after- 
 noon. They were kindly received by the Indians at 
 Namasket, and were entertained in the best manner 
 consistent with the habits of savage life. They were 
 supplied with bread, called by the Indians Maizium, 
 (Indian Corn) and the spawn of shad, of which latter 
 they had an abundance. 
 
 Complaint was made by the Indians of the great 
 damage they had sustained from the depredations of 
 the crows in their corn-fields, and one of the messen- 
 gers, by request, shot off his musket, and killed 
 several of them, much to their admiration. 
 
 Tisquantum, having intimated the difficulty of 
 
 * In a letter received from the late Thomas Bennet, Esq., he ob- 
 serves, ' The Indian path from Namasket to Plymouth road, crossed 
 the Namasket River, where the bridge now is half a mile from 
 Middleborough Four Corners, and near Pierce & Woods factory, (this 
 was the wading place) and ran nearly as the road now does, to 
 Philip's Spring, a little distance back of the meeting house on Carver 
 Green.' 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 87 
 
 reaching Pokanokct * in one day, advised them to 
 proceed about 8 miles further, where better provision 
 might be obtained, to which place they arrived about 
 sunset, and found several Namasket Indians fishing at 
 a wear.f They were gladly received, and a contribu- 
 tion of provision from both parties, supplied an ample 
 repast. Here they spent the night, lodging in the open 
 air, there being no wigwams or other accommodation. 
 
 The next morning, after breakfast, accompanied 
 by six Indians, they continued their journey about 
 six miles along the river to a ' known shoal place, t 
 where they were advised to throw off their garments 
 to render fording the river more convenient. Here 
 they encountered two aged savages on the opposite 
 side, disposed to contest their passage across the 
 river, but on ascertaining that they were friends, 
 desisted, and very promptly rendered them every 
 assistance in their power. 
 
 The Indians in company were quite attentive to 
 the travelers, kindly offering to carry their pieces and 
 clothes, and even to convey them over the streams 
 where no bridges existed in that early day. Traces 
 of former habitations and extensive cornfields were 
 
 * This was the Indian name applied to the country now embraced 
 within the limits of Bristol, Warren, and Barrington in Rhode Island, 
 and part of Swanzey and Sekonk in Massachusetts. 
 
 t This place is near the village of Titicut, on Taunton river, in the 
 north west part of Middleborough, and was formerly called the Old 
 Indian wear. 
 
 \ Baylies says in vol. 1, page 75, ' this place is near the new forge, 
 on Taunton River, about three miles from the Green.' 
 
88 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 found on the borders of the river, where the Indians 
 had fallen victims to the plague which raged so 
 fatally a few years before the Pilgrims arrived. 
 
 Stopping at a town of Massasoit' s on the way, they 
 were regaled with oysters and other fish, and from 
 thence arrived at Pokanocket.* Massasoit being 
 absent, was notified of their arrival, and soon made 
 his appearance, and was received by the messengers 
 with a salute from their pieces. Massasoit received 
 his visitors very kindly and invited them to his house. 
 After delivering the message from their Governor, 
 and the presents by which it was accompanied, they 
 placed the chain on his neck, and the coat on his back, 
 at which he and his men appeared much delighted. 
 
 Massasoit in reply to the message, bid them wel- 
 come, expressed his desire for the preservation of 
 peace with the English, and promised so to regulate 
 the intercourse of his subjects with Plymouth, as to 
 prevent further annoyance from them in future. He 
 then called his men around him, addressed them in 
 a long speech, urging them to a peaceful course, and 
 requiring them to trade with the English, and after 
 naming thirty different places of trade, and receiving 
 answers of approbation from those present, the inter- 
 view ended. 
 
 * The residence of Massasoit at this time was at Sowams, now 
 "Warren in Rhode Island. Dr. Morse in the 5lh octavo vol. of his 
 Geography, 1805, in a description of Warren says, ' This was also the 
 dwelling place of Massasoit. His spring, near the margin of the river 
 still bears his name.' See His. of Warren by G. W- Fessenden. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 89 
 
 The next day many of his sachems and subjects, 
 visited the dwelling of Massasoit and practiced their 
 customary games for knives and skins, the rage for 
 gambling being a well known characteristic of the 
 Indian race. On this occasion one of the messengers 
 shooting, by request, at a mark, it excited much 
 wonder among the Indians when they perceived the 
 holes produced by the hail shot with which the 
 musket was charged. 
 
 But notwithstanding the extent of Massasoit's 
 dominions, the fare presented to his English friends 
 upon this occasion, was extremely meagre, and far 
 from corresponding with the dignity of royal authority, 
 two boiled fish being the main articles comprised in the 
 bill of fare, of which forty persons were to partake. 
 Scanty fare, bad lodging, and a desire to reach 
 home before the next Sabbath, induced them to take 
 leave of Massasoit, and to decline his urgent solicita- 
 tions to prolong their visit, which were accompanied 
 at parting with many regrets for his inability to afford 
 them better entertainment. Tisquantum remained 
 with Massasoit with a view to visit the neighboring 
 tribes and make arrangements for future trade, 
 and Tokamahamon, was appointed in his place, 
 who had previously been found faithful, and never 
 afterwards deceived them. They commenced their 
 journey home, following the same route by which 
 they came, and arrived at Plymouth on Saturday 
 evening, after an absence of five days, exhausted by 
 fatigue, hunger, and storms of rain. 
 8* 
 
90 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 This visit produced the most favorable results to 
 the colony. It led to a better knowledge of the 
 surrounding country, extended their acquaintance 
 with the natives, and greatly enlarged the sphere of 
 their traffic. 
 
 Soon after this an expedition of ten men was fitted 
 out to recover a boy, John Eillington, who having 
 been lost in the woods for several days, wandered 
 from one place to another, subsisting upon berries. 
 Enquiries were made among the natives, and Massa- 
 soit informed the English, that the boy was at Nauset. 
 He had been absent wandering about for five days, 
 and then reached a place called Manomet, twenty 
 miles south of Plymouth, and from thence was con- 
 veyed to the Nausites on Cape Cod. 
 
 Towards the latter part of July, the shallop got 
 under way, having ten men on board, with Tisquan- 
 tum as interpreter, and Tokamahamon, a special 
 Indian friend. In a short time after leaving the har- 
 bor, they were overtaken by a storm, which induced 
 them to anchor at Cummaquid, (Barnstable) and 
 spend the night. 
 
 In the morning they discovered savages on shore, 
 and sending their two interpreters, ascertained that 
 the lost boy was well and at Nauset. Receiving an 
 invitation, they visited the Sachem of Cummaquid, 
 named Jyanough, a man not more that twenty -six 
 years old, 'but gentle, courteous, fair conditioned, 
 indeed not like a savage, save for his attire. His 
 entertainment was answerable to his parts, and his 
 cheer ample and various.' 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 91 
 
 On this occasion they met with an old Indian 
 woman supposed to be more than one hundred years 
 old, who had never seen the English before, but at 
 sight of them burst into the most violent exclama- 
 tions of grief and indignation. This arose from 
 the fact that some years before, when Capt. Hunt 
 visited the country, her son went on board his ship, 
 and was carried a captive to Spain, in company with 
 Tisquantum. She was pacified at last by means of 
 gentle words, and a few small presents. In the after- 
 noon they proceeded to Nauset in company with 
 Jyanough and two of his men, where they arrived 
 just before evening. They succeeded in recovering 
 the lost boy, and received him from the hands of 
 Aspinet, the Sachem of Nauset, by whom he had 
 been plentifully ornamented with beads. 
 
 At this place they received information that Mass- 
 assoit had been captured by the Naragansets, which 
 induced them to hasten their return, justly fearing 
 that Plymouth might be in danger, when so few were 
 left for its defence. The whole number of able-bodied 
 men at this time was only nineteen, and ten of these 
 were absent on the expedition to Nauset, leaving 
 only nine at home. They were obliged to put in at 
 Cummaquid on their return, where they received 
 from the ■ courteous Sachem Jyanough, the most 
 hospitable attentions.' 
 
 On returning from Nauset, the rumors respecting 
 Massassoit were confirmed, intelligence having been 
 received that Corbitant, one of his Sachems, in secret 
 
92 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 conjunction with the Naragansetts had arrived at 
 Namasket, and was aiming to seduce the Indians of 
 that place from their allegiance. He expressed the 
 most violent indignation towards the English, on ac- 
 count of the peace they had recently made at Nauset, 
 and abused Tisquantum, Hobbamock, and Tokama- 
 hamon by whose friendly instrumentality it had prin- 
 cipally been effected. Tisquantum and Hobbomack 
 having privately repaired to Namasket to ascertain 
 the true state of affairs in that quarter, were 
 discovered by Corbitant, who guarded the house in 
 which they lodged, seized Tisquantum, and threaten- 
 ed Hobbamock, the latter escaping however, by means 
 of his great strength and skill, arrived at Plymouth 
 in safety, with this alarming intelligence. In conse- 
 quence of this high-handed measure on the part of 
 Corbitant, ten men were dispatched to Namasket on 
 the 15th of August, under the command of Capt. 
 Miles Standish, with Hobbamock for a guide. They 
 arrived at the house of Corbitant about midnight, and 
 found him absent. This unexpected attack produced 
 great consternation among the savages, some of whom 
 were wounded in attempting to escape. In the 
 morning Capt. Standish marched into the Town, 
 where he met the friendly Indians, and found that 
 Corbitant and his adherents had fled, alarmed no 
 doubt, at the decisive course of Standish and those 
 under his charge. Having expressed fully, the object 
 of the expedition to Namasket, and a desire for 
 continued peace, they departed for Plymouth, taking 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 93 
 
 in charge one man and a woman who had been 
 wounded. 
 
 Though the rumor respecting the seizure of Mass- 
 assoit by the Narragansetts proved unfounded, the ex- 
 pedition under Standish, by its intrepid course of 
 action, produced the most salutary effects, and 
 induced the surrounding tribes to submission, not 
 excepting Corbitant himself, who solicited the friend- 
 ly interference of Massassoit, to effect a reconcilia- 
 tion with the government of Plymouth. 
 
 The preceding narrative conclusively shows, that 
 notwithstanding the wasting sickness of the winter, 
 the small number that survived that awful calamity, 
 upon the return of spring, engaged with great zeal 
 and industry, in the various pursuits required by the 
 peculiar circumstances of their condition. They had 
 during the spring and summer accomplished a great 
 work. They had established a government, on the 
 basis of freedom, had secured peace with the sur- 
 rounding tribes, whose first signal had been that of 
 open hostility ; had in the most intrepid manner, 
 quelled a threatened war with their neighbors ; and 
 had opened a profitable traffic in various directions. 
 The prospects of the colony were highly favorable. 
 On the 9th of November, a vessel, the Fortune, of 
 55 tons burthen, arrived from England with thirty-five 
 passengers ; an arrival not less joyful than unexpected 
 to the remnant which had so nobly maintained their 
 post through the heavy pressure of unparalleled suf- 
 ferings. 
 
94 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 The Fortune sailed from London early in July, but 
 could not clear the English, channel till the end of 
 August, which accounts for her long passage. 
 
 The condition and prospects of the colony at this 
 time, are fully described in a letter from Edward 
 Winslow, subsequently Governor of the colony, 
 directed, as is supposed, to George Morton, then in 
 England, who arrived in the Ann in 1623. This letter 
 bears date, Dec. 11, 1621, and was sent in the For- 
 tune, which vessel returned to England on the 13th 
 of that month. That part of the letter having partic- 
 ular reference to the principal occurrences in the 
 colony, from the time of the landing, will doubtless 
 be interesting to the reader, and is as follows : 
 
 December 11th, 1621. 
 1 Loving and old friend: 
 
 ' Although I received no letter from you by this 
 ship, yet forasmuch as I know you expect the per- 
 formance of my promise, which was to write unto you 
 truly and faithfully of all things, I have therefore at 
 this time, sent unto you accordingly, referring you for 
 further satisfaction, to our more large relations. 
 
 1 You shall understand that in this little time, that 
 a few of us have been here, we have built seven 
 dwelling houses, and four for the use of the planta- 
 tion, and have made preparations for divers others. 
 We set last spring some twenty acres of Indian corn, 
 and sowed some six acres of barley and pease ; and 
 according to the manner of the Indians, we manured 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 95 
 
 one ground with herrings or rather shad* which we 
 have in great abundance, and take with great ease 
 at our doors. Our corn did prove well ; and God be 
 praised, we had a good increase of Indian corn, and 
 our barley indifferent good, but our pease not worth 
 gathering, for we feared they were too late sown. 
 They came up very well and blossomed, but the sun 
 parched them in the blossom. 
 
 1 Our harvest being gotten in, our governor sent 
 four men on fowling, that so we might, after a special 
 manner, rejoice together after we had gathered the 
 fruit of our labors.t They four in one day killed as 
 much fowl as, with a little help beside, served the 
 company for a week. At which time amongst other 
 recreations, we exercised our arms, many of the In- 
 dians coming amongst us, and among the rest, their 
 greatest king, Massasoyt, with some ninety men, 
 whom for three days we entertained and feasted, and 
 they went out and killed five deer, which they brought 
 to the plantation, and bestowed upon the captain and 
 others. And although it be not always so plentiful 
 as it was at this time with us, yet by the goodness of 
 God, we are so far from want that we wish you par- 
 takers of our plenty. 
 
 ' We have found the Indians very faithful in their 
 covenant of peace with us, very loving, and ready to 
 pleasure us. We often go to them, and they come 
 to us. Some of us have been fifty miles by land, in 
 
 * Alewives are here probably intended, 
 f The first Thanksgiving of New England. 
 
95 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 the country with them, the occasions and relations 
 whereof, you shall understand by our more full 
 declaration of such things as are worth the noting. 
 Yea, it hath pleased God so to possess the Indians 
 with a fear of us and love unto us, that not only the 
 greatest king amongst them, called Massasoyt, but 
 also all the princes and peoples round about us, have 
 either made suit unto us, or been glad of any occasion 
 to make peace with us ; so that seven of them at 
 once have sent messengers to us to that end. Yea, 
 an ile at sea, which we never saw, hath also, together 
 with the former, yielded willingly to be under the 
 protection and subject to our sovereign lord, King 
 James. So that there is now great peace among the 
 Indians themselves, which was not formerly, neither 
 would have been for us ; and we for our parts, 
 walk as peaceably and safely in the wood as in the 
 highway of England. We entertain them familiarly 
 in our houses, and they as friendly bestowing their 
 venison on us. Our supply of men came from you 
 the 9th of November, 1621, putting in at Cape Cod, 
 some eight or ten leagues from us. The Indians that 
 dwell there about, were they who were owners of 
 the corn which we found in caves, for which we have 
 given them full content, and are in great league with 
 them. They sent us word there was a ship near unto 
 them, but thought it to be a Frenchman; and indeed 
 for ourselves, we expected not a friend so soon. But 
 when we perceived that she made for our bay, the 
 governor commanded a piece to be shot off, to call 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 97 
 
 home such as were abroad at work. Whereupon 
 every man, yea boy, that could handle a gun, were 
 ready with full resolution that, if she were an enemy, 
 we would stand in our just defence, not fearing them. 
 But God provided better for us than we supposed. 
 These came all in health, not any being sick by the 
 way, otherwise than by sea sickness, and so continue 
 to this day by the blessing of God. 
 
 1 When it pleaseth God we are settled and fitted 
 for the fishing business and other trading, I doubt 
 not by the blessing of God the gain will give content 
 to all. In the meantime that we have gotten, we 
 have sent by this ship, and though it be not much, 
 yet it will witness for us that we have not been idle, 
 considering the smallness of our numbers all this 
 summer. We hope the merchants will accept of it, 
 and be encouraged to furnish us with all things need- 
 ful for further employment, which will also encourage 
 us to put forth ourselves to the uttermost. 
 
 E. W.' 
 
 The Fortune sailed for London on the 13th of De- 
 cember. Mr. Robert Cushman returned in her, to 
 manage the concerns of the colony, with the merchant 
 adventurers, and she was freighted with two hogs- 
 heads of beam-clapboards and sassafras, estimated as 
 worth five hundred pounds. 
 
 Soon after her departure, the governor and his 
 9 
 
98 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 assistant, Isaac Allerton, disposed the late comers 
 into several families. As the Fortune had brought 
 no supply of provisions for the colony, the increased 
 number to be supported, and the small amount on 
 hand, rendered it of the first importance to guard in 
 season against approaching want. Upon enquiry it 
 was ascertained that the supplies on hand would not 
 last six months at half allowance, and the whole 
 company were put upon half allowance, 'which they 
 bear patiently.' 
 
 In addition to the apprehension of famine, the 
 Indians in various parts of the country, particularly 
 the powerful tribe of the Narragansetts, notwith- 
 standing the peace concluded the previous summer, 
 manifested a hostile spirit. Observing the increased 
 number of settlers, and their scanty means of subsis- 
 tence, they regarded the present occasion as favorable 
 for commencing hostilities, which might eventually 
 lead to their extermination. The early and firm 
 friendship established between the Pilgrims and 
 Massassoit, had long been a source of jealousy to the 
 Narragansetts, and doubtless had obstructed the am- 
 bitious views of Canonicus, the distinguished chief of 
 that tribe. 
 
 In January 1622, a messenger in company with 
 Tokamahamon, arrived at Plymouth from Canonicus, 
 and enquiring for Tisquantum who was then absent, 
 left a bundle of new arrows, wrapped in the skin of a 
 rattlesnake, wishing to depart immediately ; but Gov. 
 Bradford not fully comprehending his strange demea- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 99 
 
 nor, committed him to the custody of Capt. Standish, 
 in hopes that further information might be obtained 
 from him. His answers to the enquiries made, were 
 reluctant and partial, but implied that the Narragan- 
 setts were enemies to the English, and that Canoni- 
 cus had taken offence through the misrepresentations 
 of one concerned in the settlement of peace, the pre- 
 ceding summer. The messenger was then released 
 and ordered to return for answer to Canonicus, that 
 the government of Plymouth had heard of his repeated 
 threats, and were prepared to encounter his hostility. 
 
 When Tisquantum returned, and saw the arrows, 
 and heard in what manner the messenger had con- 
 ducted, he informed the Governor, that to send the 
 Rattlesnake's skin in such a manner, implied enmity, 
 and was a challenge. The governor then stuffed the 
 skin with powder and shot, and returned it to Canon- 
 icus in the same tone of defiance, but he refused to 
 receive it, or even touch the powder and shot, or suffer 
 it to remain in the country, and it passed through 
 several hands till it eventually reached Plymouth 
 from whence it came. 
 
 Notwithstanding the high tone of defiance, assumed 
 by the government of Plymouth, towards Canonicus, 
 it was deemed expedient, considering their weakness, 
 forthwith to prepare more efficient means of defence, 
 in case his threats should terminate in open hostility. 
 In the month of February the town was impaled, and 
 Capt. Standish divided all that were capable of bear- 
 ing arms into four squadrons, assigning them to 
 
100 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 different stations, and the town assumed a more 
 military aspect than it had ever exhibited before. 
 
 After these military preparations were completed, 
 which doubtless had a tendency to repress the threat- 
 ened Indian hostilities, it was decided to visit the 
 Massachusets again, according to a previous promise, 
 for the purpose of traffic in furs. Hobbamock, the 
 undeviating friend of the English, informed them of 
 his fears, that the Massachusets and Narragansetts 
 were engaged in a confederacy, and would probably 
 take the occasion, should they go on this intended 
 expedition, to cut off Capt. Standish and his men, 
 and intimated that Tisquantum was concerned in the 
 plot. Notwithstanding the counsel of Hobbamock, 
 it was determined to undertake the expedition, and 
 Capt. Standish with ten men, having Tisquantum 
 and Hobbamock in company, sailed in March for the 
 Massachusets, but had proceeded no farther than the 
 gurnet's nose, when they were recalled by three 
 alarm guns from the fort, which induced them forth- 
 with to return. 
 
 On reaching town they found every man on his 
 guard in expectation of an attack from the Indians, 
 and it appeared that soon after their departure, one 
 of Tisquantum's family, came running into the town, 
 having his face wounded, and the blood flowing, often 
 turning behind as if fearing some one in pursuit. He af- 
 firmed that many Narragansetts, with Massassoit and 
 Corbitant, were at Namasket, intending to embrace 
 the opportunity, while Standish was absent, to as- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 101 
 
 sault the town, and further declared, that he had 
 received his wounds in venturing to speak in behalf 
 of the English. 
 
 Upon learning this statement of affairs, Hobbamock 
 pronounced it entirely false, and vouched for the 
 fidelity of Massassoit ; presuming that he would never 
 have engaged in such a measure without his knowl- 
 edge, it being customary before undertaking such 
 enterprises, to consult his chief counsellors or pinese, 
 of which he was one. A messenger, the wife of 
 Hobbamock, was privately dispatched to visit Pokan- 
 oket, to ascertain the true state of affairs in that 
 quarter. 
 
 On arriving there, she perceived that all was quiet, 
 and having an interview with Massassoit, informed 
 him of the occurrences at Plymouth. He was much 
 offended at the conduct of Tisquantum, highly grati- 
 fied at the favorable opinion entertained of him by 
 the government of Plymouth, tendering the assurance 
 that according to their first articles of peace, he would 
 inform them, whenever danger was at hand. 
 
 This whole affair may justly be considered a scheme 
 of Tisquantum, originating in a vain desire of mani- 
 festing his own importance, and to promote his own 
 selfish purposes. He probably did not foresee the 
 consequences which might naturally have been ex- 
 pected to result from the false alarm which he had 
 occasioned. 
 
 He had previously proved highly useful to the 
 colony, and after a sharp reproof administered by the 
 9* 
 
102 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 
 governor, it was concluded to retain him, his services 
 being regarded as of indispensable importance, both 
 as an interpreter and guide. 
 
 In the month of April, the suspended voyage to 
 Massachusets was undertaken, and successfully 
 accomplished, having resulted in much profitable 
 trade. 
 
 Upon the return of this expedition, Massassoit was 
 found waiting at Plymouth, having been justly 
 incensed by the deception of Tisquantum, but was 
 pacified for the present. 
 
 Soon after his departure however, he sent a mes- 
 senger, earnestly requesting that Tisquantum might 
 be delivered up to receive the punishment of death. 
 The messenger departed, and soon after another 
 embassy arrived, demanding him for Massassoit, as 
 one of his subjects, whom by the articles of peace, 
 he had a right to claim. They had brought the knife 
 of Massassoit with them, having received orders to 
 cut off* the head and hands of Tisquantum, and re- 
 turn with them to Pokanoket. At the moment 
 when Gov. Bradford was about to deliver Tisquantum 
 into the hands of his executioners, a boat was discov- 
 ered in the bay near Manomet, which afforded a 
 pretence for a postponement of the matter for the 
 present, and the Indian messengers hastily departed, 
 indignant at their disappointment, while Tisquantum 
 whose chance of safety had become so desperate, 
 tuus fortunately escaped with his life. 
 
 About the end of May 1822, their provisions were 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 103 
 
 wholly spent, though they had for a long time been 
 living on a short and bare allowance, occasioned by 
 the increased number of emigrants who had arrived 
 in the Fortune. At this time a boat was discovered 
 approaching the highland of Manomet, which proved 
 to be a shallop, which belonged to a fishing ship 
 called the Sparow, fitted out by Thomas Weston, 
 merchant of London, having six or seven passengers, 
 who should have been before landed at Plymouth. 
 At this time about thirty vessels were employed in 
 the fisheries at the eastward, and Edward Winslow 
 visited that region, with a view to procure provisions. 
 He met with the most friendly and cordial reception, 
 but could obtain only moderate supplies, on account 
 of their own limited stock, furnished however freely 
 and without payment ; which though of small amount, 
 among so many as were depending on it at the plan- 
 tation, was of essential aid till the crops of the ensu- 
 ing autumn were gathered. On the return of Mr. 
 Winslow from the eastward, he found the colony in a 
 much weaker condition than at his departure, and 
 the prospects of the Colony wore an alarming aspect. 
 The Indians observing their destitute condition, 
 rejoiced in their distress, and often intimated, how 
 easily their extermination might be affected. Even 
 Massassoit, their old friend, ' seemed now to frown 
 on them,' and discontinued his accustomed visits. 
 
 These considerations led to the erection of a fort 
 on the hill, which had been previously enclosed 
 within their empalement, from which a small number 
 
1Q4 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 might defend the town in ease of assault from the 
 Indians. This work was commenced with spirit, 
 prosecuted with great energy, and speedily accom- 
 plished, though not without great inconvenience to 
 their other pursuits. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 105 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 Arrival of Weston's Colony in the Charity and Swan, 
 1 622 — Their stay in Plymouth, and conduct there 
 
 — Their removal to Wessaguscus — Gov. Bradford 
 and Standish visit Cape Cod for supplies of com 
 
 — Sickness of Massassoit — Conspiracy of the In- 
 dians — Standish 's departure to Wessaguscus — Dis- 
 solution of Weston's Colony. 
 
 The arrival of two ships from London, namely, the 
 Chanty and the Swan, having on board about sixty 
 passengers, marks an interesting point in the early 
 annals of the Colony, and was succeeded by events 
 of great importance, intimately connected with its 
 very existence. These vessels were owned and 
 equipped by Thomas Weston of London, with a view 
 to the settlement of a colony distinct from that of 
 Plymouth, and the passengers on landing were re- 
 ceived by the planters in the most friendly manner, 
 notwithstanding their own destitute condition. The 
 early zeal of Mr. Weston by whom the transportation 
 of the Pilgrims in 1620, was greatly facilitated, had 
 inspired them with gratitude, and a consequent dis- 
 position to render the temporary residence of his men 
 among them, as favorable as their limited resources 
 would allow; but these efforts were by no means 
 
106 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 received with a corresponding spirit on the part of 
 men, whose reckless character, possessed no elements 
 adapting them to become the founders of a colony. 
 On the contrary, they soon betrayed a manifest de- 
 ficiency of those virtues without which society and 
 government become a curse, instead of a blessing. 
 The scanty store of corn, saved from the compulsory 
 abstinence of the colonists, previous to the arrival of 
 the ships, was carelessly wasted, and even the grow- 
 ing fields of corn were invaded and robbed, to an 
 extent, endangering the anticipated crop of autumn, 
 while injurious slanders were uttered, implicating the 
 character of those, whose hospitality supplied their 
 wants, at the cost of restricting their own. 
 
 This conduct appears to have been patiently en- 
 dured, and charitably excused by the planters of 
 Plymouth, and would probably never have come into 
 remembrance, had a sense of justice and decorum, 
 manifested in their subsequent deportment, given 
 any evidence of a permanent improvement in their 
 morals. 
 
 Those who had undertaken to explore the country 
 at last returned, having visited a place called by the 
 Indians Wessaguscus,* (now Weymouth,) and deem- 
 ing it a fit place of settlement, the whole colony em- 
 
 * A correspondent of Quincy thus describes the place. c It i.s 
 about three miles south east of the granite Church in Quincy, at a 
 place locally called Old Spain. "Weston's colony sailed up Fore 
 river, which seperates Quincy from Weymouth, and then entered, 
 Phillips Creek, and commenced operations on its north baak.' 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 107 
 
 barked, leaving only the sick and lame, who under the 
 charge of Samuel Fuller, the surgeon of Plymouth, 
 soon afterwards recovered and rejoined them. 
 
 A short time only had elapsed after their arrival at 
 Wessaguscus, before the Indians in that quarter, 
 uttered loud complaints respecting their newly arrived 
 neighbors, and the colony at Plymouth, while they 
 reprobated a conduct marked by gross injustice to 
 the Indians, and in striking contrast to that of their 
 own, were justly alarmed, lest it might reflect dis- 
 credit on themselves, and expose both colonies to the 
 indiscriminate indignation of their Indian neighbors, 
 and endanger the good understanding previously 
 existing among them. 
 
 In the beginning of October, the larger vessel 
 belonging to Mr. Weston, sailed for London. A good 
 supply of provisions was left for the colony, and the 
 smaller vessel called the Swan, remained for purposes 
 of trade and fishing. At the solicitation of the colony 
 at Wessaguscus, a mutual arrangement was made for 
 trade with the natives, principally designed to procure 
 supplies of corn; and Captain Standish twice em- 
 barked for this purpose, but was driven back by 
 storms, and was afterwards prevented by sickness 
 from pursuing the voyage. 
 
 Under these circumstances, Gov. Bradford, per- 
 ceiving the necessity of supplies for the colonies, and 
 the danger of an insufficient crop, owing to the pre- 
 vious diversion of labor from agricultural pursuits, to 
 the preparations required for security against appre 
 
108 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 hended hostilities from the Indians, voluntarily 
 assumed the place of Capt. Standish, and successfully 
 accomplished the object in view. 
 
 In the month of Nov. he visited Monamoycke, 
 (Chatham,) on the south side of Cape Cod, and 
 though the natives were at first reserved, in their in- 
 tercourse, the friendly offices of Tisquantum soon in- 
 duced a better feeling, and 8 hogsheads of corn 
 were obtained in exchange for other articles. Here 
 a heavy loss was sustained in the death of Tisquan- 
 tum, who was suddenly seized with violent sickness, 
 and died in a short time after. The loss of this 
 invaluable guide and interpreter, rendered it neces- 
 sary to return to Wessaguscus, where the governor 
 found many complaints renewed against the conduct 
 of Weston's colony. 
 
 The next excursion of the governor was to Nauset, 
 and Mattachiest, at both of which places he was 
 received with every token of friendly regard, procured 
 a considerable stock of corn, which was left in charge 
 of the Indians, and concluded thence to return by 
 land to Plymouth, a distance of 50 miles, having 
 Hobbamock for his guide. 
 
 Eanacum, the Sachem of Manomet, at which place 
 he stopped on his way home, entertained the gover- 
 nor with great hospitality, and furnished him with corn, 
 which was left there till such time as it could be con- 
 veniently removed. The governor then returned to 
 Plymouth, having gained much information of the 
 natives, and procured supplies of great importance to 
 the colony. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 109 
 
 In the month of Jan. 1623, Captain Standish, having 
 recovered his health, proceeded to Nauset, recovered 
 the shallop which had been formerly stranded there, 
 found the corn which had been left was safe, loaded 
 the same on board the Swan, and dividing it with 
 Weston's men, returned to Plymouth. 
 
 In the month of March, he engaged in another ex- 
 pedition to Barnstable and Manomet. While at the 
 latter place, his life was endangered by several Indi- 
 ans who had resorted there, among whom was Wit- 
 uwamet, a noted warrior of the Massachusets, who 
 addressed the sachem Canacum in a manner indi- 
 cating his hostility to the English, at which time 
 concurring circumstances leave but little doubt, that 
 the project of exterminating both colonies, was in 
 progress, which was afterwards more fully shown by 
 the disclosures of Massassoit. 
 
 While Capt. Standish was at Manomet, informa- 
 tion was received at Plymouth, that Massassoit, the 
 early and valued friend of the Pilgrims, was danger- 
 ously sick, and that a Dutch ship was on shore near 
 his dwelling. 
 
 Edward Winslowwas appointed to visit the Sachem 
 on this occasion, and in company with John Hamp- 
 den, a gentleman of London, who was spending the 
 winter at Plymouth* having Hobbamock for a guide. 
 
 * It was for a long time conjectured by historians, that this individ- 
 ual was the celebrated English patriot. Dr. Young in his Chronicles 
 of the pilgrims, page 314, has satisfactorily shown that this conjecture 
 is without any just foundation. 
 
 10 
 
110 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 On arriving at Sowams, the seat of Massassoit, they 
 found him surrounded by a large number of his people, 
 and the press was so great as to render it difficult to 
 approach his bed. ' There were they in the midst of 
 their charms, making such a hellish noise, as it dis- 
 tempered them that were well, and therefore unlike 
 to ease him that was sick.' When their charming 
 had ceased, he was informed that his friends the 
 English, had come to see him. His understanding 
 was perfect, but his sight was gone. He desired to 
 speak with Winslow, and said, 'Art thou Winslow!' 
 and exclaimed, ' O, Winslow, I shall never see thee 
 again.' 
 
 The applications of Winslow, were happily suc- 
 cessful, soon restored Massassoit to health, and no 
 event could well be conceived more favorable to the 
 colony. It excited sentiments of the most ardent 
 gratitude in the mind of this excellent chief, which 
 led him to a full disclosure of the conspiracy then in 
 progress to exterminate both the colonies of Plymouth 
 and of Wessaguscus. This disclosure was made 
 privately to Hobbamock, and by him communicated 
 to Winslow on their return to Plymouth. The entire 
 narrative of this visit to Massassoit, written by Win- 
 slow himself, is highly interesting, and indicates his 
 true character. His humanity towards the Indians, 
 upon all occasions, secured the confidence of Mass- 
 assoit, and was probably the means of saving the 
 colony of Plymouth from utter extermination. 
 
 The disclosures of Massassoit, in conjunction with 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. Ill 
 
 other circumstances observable among the neighbor- 
 ing tribes, rendered it no longer doubtful that a pro- 
 ject was entertained of destroying the English, 
 whenever a favorable moment should occur for its 
 execution. Long before the visit to Massassoit, 
 complaints were continually made, by the Indians at 
 Wessaguscus, and by some of the best standing 
 among the colonists themselves, not only of the mean 
 and disgraceful conduct pursued towards the natives, 
 but of the abject condition to which a licentious and 
 indolent course had reduced them. A tolerable share 
 of industry would have sufficed to render their con- 
 dition comfortable ; but this was wanting, and con- 
 sequent want assailed them, leading to a contempt 
 for the rights of others, manifested in acts of theft, 
 and that general disregard of moral and religious 
 principle, without which, society becomes a loose, 
 disjointed fabric, destined to speedy destruction. 
 
 This course of conduct produced its legitimate 
 consequences, and at the end of February 1623, their 
 bread and corn were exhausted without any reserva- 
 tion of seed for planting in the succeeding spring, 
 and such were the feelings of indignation existing 
 against them among the neighboring Indians, that 
 nothing could be obtained in that quarter. This state 
 of affairs at one time led to the desperate resolution 
 of seizing whatever could be found, in total disregard 
 of the rights of ownership. This resolution however, 
 was overruled by advice of the better disposed 
 amongst them, and recourse was had to Plymouth 
 
112 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 for counsel in this hour of difficulty. The reply of 
 Plymouth was decisive and wholly discountenanced 
 the course of violence proposed to be adopted in 
 relation to the seizure of provisions, belonging to the 
 Indians. The inhabitants of Plymouth were them- 
 selves at this time scantily supplied with corn, and 
 compelled to live on ground-nuts, clams, and other 
 natural products within their reach, and they advised 
 their neighbors to rely on the same resources, rather 
 than violate the laws of God and nature, in the manner 
 proposed — at the same time warning them to desist 
 from proceedings which would inevitably produce a 
 feeling of dangerous hostility against both themselves 
 and others. 
 
 They were further advised to consider their own 
 weak condition, and the danger of failure in their 
 defence against the combined power of the Natives, 
 and that no aid would be afforded by Plymouth 
 colony, in such an unlawful undertaking. 
 
 This remonstrance was promptly forwarded to 
 Wessaguscus, and induced a suspension of the vio- 
 lent measures proposed, and John Saunders, their 
 leader, embarked about the end of February, to the 
 eastward in quest of supplies, without any knowledge 
 of the dangerous conspiracy then in agitation. 
 
 The twenty-third of March, 1623, was the annual 
 Court day, and upon this occasion, the governor, 
 having abundant evidence of the purposed attack 
 upon the colonies, submitted the subject for consid- 
 eration to the whole company, urging the importance 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 113 
 
 of a prompt decision upon a question involving the 
 existence of the colony. 
 
 The decision of this question was a source of great 
 anxiety. The course of the pilgrims towards the 
 natives from the first moment of their landing, had 
 been governed by a just regard to their rights, and 
 an earnest endeavor to procure their favor, by a 
 strict observance of justice and equity, which had 
 happily been instrumental in establishing relations 
 of peace, now threatened with interruption, from 
 causes which they had vainly sought to remove or to 
 counteract. Nor could they disguise the fact, that 
 their neighbors at Wessaguscus had given just 
 occasion for the indignation of the Indians, now evi- 
 dently arrived at a point of excitement, beyond the 
 power of control, except by means of the most decided 
 character, which however reluctantly adopted, were 
 under the circumstances then existing, deemed indis- 
 pensable to their preservation. 
 
 Capt. Standish, whose intrepid conduct had so often 
 on previous occasions, rescued the colony from im- 
 pending danger, was authorised to visit Wessaguscus 
 with eight individuals selected for the enterprise. 
 The day before he left Plymouth, one of Mr. Wes- 
 ton's colony arrived by land, and represented the 
 weak condition of the people there, the increasing 
 boldness of the Indians, and that although one man 
 had been hanged, for stealing their corn, this act 
 was insufficient to satisfy them, and that in general 
 the colony was dispersed in various directions seek- 
 10* 
 
114 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 ing a bare subsistence at the mercy of chance, and 
 were not only destitute of decent clothing, but in 
 absolute danger of starvation. 
 
 The person who had fled from Wessaguscus to 
 Plymouth, was soon missed, and an Indian followed 
 him in pursuit, but having taken a wrong path, his 
 intended victim fortunately escaped his vengeance. 
 
 The report received concerning the state of affairs 
 at "Wessaguscus, hastened the departure of Standish, 
 and a favorable breeze, soon wafted him to the place 
 of destination. He first proceeded to the ship, but 
 found no one there. On firing his musket, the master 
 of the plantation and others, appeared, and were 
 asked how they ventured to live in such apparent 
 security. He intimated the danger to which they 
 were exposed, and the object of his visit. He further 
 offered them an asylum at Plymouth, if they chose 
 to go there, till they could find some other situation. 
 
 Large numbers of the Indians daily resorted to the 
 plantation, and sharpened their knives in his presence, 
 and used various other insulting gestures and words. 
 Among the rest Wituwamat bragged of the excel- 
 lence of his knife. On the end of the handle there 
 was pictured a woman's face, ' but,' said he, ' I have 
 another at home wherewith I have killed both French 
 and English, and that hath a man's face on it, and by 
 and by these two must marry.' He further said, ' by 
 and by it should eat but not speak.' Also Pecksuot, 
 being a man of greater statue than the captain, told 
 him ' though he was a great captain, yet he was but 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 115 
 
 a little man ; ' and said he, ■ though I be no Sachem, 
 yet I am a man of great strength and courage.' These 
 indications of hostility, Standish patiently bore for 
 the present. The day after, when Wittuwamet and 
 Pecksuot and two others were in a room together, 
 with about the same number of his own men, Stan- 
 dish ordered the door shut, and then seizing the knife 
 suspended from the neck of Pecksuot, killed him 
 with the same. Wittuwamet was killed by the 
 others present, and his brother was taken and after- 
 wards hanged. The death of these prominent ring- 
 leaders, was speedily followed by a general flight of 
 their followers, and Standish after seeing to the 
 embarcation of that part of the colony of Weston that 
 preferred going to Monhegan, and taking the rest in 
 his shallop, safely arrived at. Plymouth. 
 
 Thus ended the colony of Weston, within a year 
 from its first commencement. It affords a striking 
 example of a presumptuous disregard of those moral 
 and religious principles, which form the only substan- 
 tial basis of social institutions. It w T as doubtless 
 undertaken solely with a view to profit, and by a 
 disappointed merchant adventurer, whose eagerness 
 of speculation could not easily be satisfied, or suffi- 
 ciently moderated, to await the result of his invest- 
 ments in the colony of Plymouth. 
 
 The result of this ' capital exploit ' of Standish, as 
 it is called by Dr. Belknap, was soon followed by the 
 submission and in some instances the dispersion of 
 the prominent natives who had engaged with the 
 
116 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 tribes of Massachusets in the conspiracy, and pro- 
 duced a lasting impression on their rninds, highly 
 favorable to the colony of Plymouth, in all its relations, 
 and was the principal cause of establishing a long 
 continued peace. 
 
 The memory of Standish has sometimes been in- 
 considerately reproached for undue severity in the 
 execution of his duty on the occasion above narrated. 
 This appears unjust in the extreme, when it is con- 
 sidered that he acted under authority, derived from the 
 colony of Plymouth itself, and therefore should not be 
 singled out as deserving of special condemnation. 
 Whatever regret may be felt at the occurrence of so 
 tragical a result as the loss of a few lives, the circum- 
 stances existing at the time, and the concurrent testi- 
 mony from various quarters, of a general movement 
 against the colony, authorized the adoption of strong 
 counteracting measures, and history rarely affords a 
 parallel instance, in which so important an end was 
 secured, by so small a sacrifice of life. 
 
 Having thus presented a brief history of the pil- 
 grims during their earlier struggles, when their 
 numbers were few, their resources slender, and their 
 dangers imminent, the limits assigned to this work, 
 forbid more than some general abstract of prominent 
 events occurring in the colony till its union with 
 Massachusetts. If the reader should conceive that 
 we have dwelt too long and too minutely on the 
 transactions of a few years, and the record of events 
 which seem insignificant in comparison with the 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 117 
 
 splendid achievements that mark the annals of soci- 
 ety, in its more advanced stages, he is desired to 
 consider that true heroism is not determined by the 
 sphere of its action alone, and that men who braved 
 the ocean, settled on the borders of an unexplored 
 wilderness, inhabited only by a savage race, who 
 bore the pressure of want without a murmur, and the 
 uplifted tomahawk without blenching, and finally 
 established the firm foothold of liberty, have acquired 
 claims to our regard, which render every movement 
 of their eventful life, a worthy subject of considera- 
 tion. 
 
 # ' Now the peculiarity which has seemed to me 
 to distinguish these trials of the Pilgrim age, from 
 those, from the chief of which the general voice of 
 literature has concurred to glorify, as the trials of 
 heroism; the peculiarity which gives to these and 
 such as these, the attributes of a truer heroism, is 
 this : that they had to meet them on what was then 
 a humble, obscure, and distant stage, with no numer- 
 ous audience to look on and applaud, and cast its 
 wreaths on the fainting brow of him, whose life was 
 rushing with his blood ; and unsustained by one single 
 one of those sterner, and more stimulating impulses, 
 and aims, and sentiments, which carry a soldier to 
 his grave of honor as to the bridal bed. Where were 
 the pilgrims while in this furnace of affliction ? And 
 who saw and took thought for them ? They were 
 
 * Choate's Address at New York, Dec. 22, 1&44. 
 
118 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 alone on the earth ! Directly and solely, ■ in their 
 great task maker's eye.' If every one of them had 
 died the first winter of long fever, or been starved to 
 death or crushed by the towahawk, who was to mourn 
 for them? A few hearts in Leyden would have 
 broken, and that had been all. Unlike the martyr, 
 even, around whose ascended chariot wheels and 
 horses of fire, a congregation might come to sympa- 
 thize and be exalted, blasphemers to be deified and 
 struck with unwonted, admiration, they were alone 
 on the earth. Primeval forests, a winter's sea, a 
 winter's sky, circled them about, and excluded every 
 sympathizing human eye. To play the part of he- 
 roism on its high places and its theatre, is not perhaps, 
 so very difficult. To do it alone as seeing him who 
 is invisible, was the stupenduous trial of the Pilgrim 
 Heroism/ 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 119 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 An abstract of important events and circumstances con- 
 nected with the Pilgrims from 1623 to the Union 
 of the Old Colony and Massachusetts in 1692. 
 
 April 1623. The spring opened and found the Col- 
 onists, exhausted by the labor of procuring the means 
 of subsistence and in suppressing Indian hostilities. 
 They had no corn excepting that reserved for seed ; 
 and therefore devoted their whole attention to plant- 
 ing. To insure greater individual efforts the Gov- 
 ernor allotted one acre of land to each person in the 
 colony. Previous to this time the colony had strictly 
 adhered to the arrangement made with the merchant 
 adventurers in London — by which the labor of indi- 
 viduals was thrown into a common stock, ' We ar- 
 range all the youth under some family, plant for their 
 own particular benefit, and trust to themselves for 
 food, — but at harvest bring in a competent portion 
 for the maintainance of public officers, fisherman, &c. 
 and in all other things go on in the general way as be- 
 fore. For this end assign every family a parcel of 
 land in proportion to their number, though make no di- 
 vision for inheritance, which has very good success, 
 
120 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 makes all industrious, gives content/ Bradford in 
 Prince, 133. 
 
 1 We begin to set our coru, the setting season be- 
 ing good till the latter end of May, but by the time 
 our corn is planted, our victuals are spent : not know- 
 ing at night where to have a bit in the morning, and 
 have neither bread nor corn for three or four months 
 together : yet bear our wants with cheerfulness and 
 rest on Providence.' Prince, 135. 
 
 July. Notwithstanding the great efforts made, and 
 the strong hopes cherished of an abundant crop, the 
 prospect of a famine now threatened them by reason 
 of a severe drought and extreme heat from the third 
 week in May to the middle of July, which withered 
 the corn, and almost destroyed vegetation. They learnt 
 at this time also the failure of expected supplies from 
 England. The most courageous were now discour- 
 aged ; and the Government set apart, ' a day of hu- 
 miliation and prayer, to seek the Lord in this dis- 
 tress, who was pleased to give speedy answer to our 
 own and the Indian's admiration ; for though in the for- 
 mer part of the day it was very clear and hot, with- 
 out a sign of rain, yet towards the evening, before the 
 exercise was over, the clouds gathered and next morn- 
 ing distilled such soft and gentle showers as gave 
 cause of joy and praise to God.' This was the origin of 
 the public fast of New England. The rain fell gently 
 and lasted fourteen days, producing a total change 
 in the face of nature, and a not less striking change 
 in the hearts and prospects of the drooping colonists. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 121 
 
 About the last of this month the Ann, Mr. Wm. 
 Pierce, and soon after the Little James, Bridges Mas- 
 ters, arrived, with about sixty passengers for the col- 
 ony. ! When these passengers see our low condition 
 ashore, they are much dismayed and full of sadness ; 
 only our old friends rejoice to see us, and that it is no 
 worse, and now hope we shall enjoy better days to- 
 gether. The best dish we could present them with, 
 is a lobster, or piece of fish, without bread, or any 
 thing else but a cup of fair spring water ; and the long 
 continuance of this diet, with our labors abroad, has 
 somewhat abated the freshness of our complexion, 
 but God gives us health.' Prince, p. 140. 
 
 September 10. The pinnace sailed to the southward 
 of Cape Cod, on a voyage of discovery and to trade 
 with the Narragansetts. The ship Ann was hired for 
 the company and sailed for England with Mr. Edward 
 Winslow as passenger, and was freighted with beaver 
 and clap-boards. 
 
 November 5. A fire broke out in a dwelling house, 
 occasioned by some disorderly seamen, by which it 
 was consumed and three or four others — and goods 
 and provisions amounting to 500 pounds. 
 
 1824. The time of electing officers for this year 
 having arrived, Governor Bradford requested the peo- 
 ple to change the persons and to add more assistants 
 to the Governor for aid and advice, observing that if 
 it were a benefit or honor, 'tis fit others should be par- 
 takers; or if a burthen, 'tis but equal others should 
 help to bear it, and that this was the end of yearly 
 11 
 
122 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 elections, but whereas there was but one assistant, 
 they now choose five, and give the Governor a double 
 voice. 
 
 March. Mr. Edward Winslow, agent for the col- 
 ony, returned from England in the Charity with a 
 good supply of clothing, and cattle, consisting of 
 one bull and three heifers. 
 
 Mr. John Lyford, a minister, also came with Mr. 
 Winslow, and at first promised to become a valuable 
 acquisition to the colony.; but afterwards proved fac- 
 tions and assuming — and endeavored to seduce the 
 people from their duty to the church and government 
 established in Plymouth. He soon joined with Mr. 
 John Oldham, supposed to be a private instrument of 
 the disaffected merchant adventurers in England. 
 Gov. Bradford obtained a knowledge of their plans, 
 summoned them before the whole Court, presented 
 the evidence of their injurious intentions, and they 
 were expelled the colony. 
 
 DIVISION OF LAND. 
 
 The following transcript is from the first page of the 
 first book of Plymouth Colony Records, and is no 
 doubt a part of the allotment made Jan. 9, 1620 — 1, 
 mentioned in page 64 of this book. It is incomplete, 
 and the other part is illegible. By the Street is prob- 
 ably meant Leyden Street, leading from Town Square 
 to the water. The high way led to the town spring, 
 and is now Market Street. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 123 
 
 The Meersteacls and Garden plotes of those which 
 
 came first, layed out 1620 
 The North side. 
 
 South side. 
 Peter Brown. 
 John Goodman, 
 Mr. Brewster. 
 
 Hige way. 
 
 1 
 
 John Billiugton, 
 
 Mr. Isaak Allerton, 
 
 Francis Cooke, 
 
 Edward Winslow. 
 
 ' This spring the people requesting the Governor to 
 have some land for continuance, and not by yearly lot 
 as before, he gives every person an acre to them and 
 theirs, as near the town as can be ; and no more till 
 the seven years, that we may keep close together for 
 greater defence and safety.' Prince, p. 147. 
 
 The first division of lands temporarily made in 
 1623, as before mentioned, was now confirmed in per- 
 petuity. The lands thus divided lie on both sides of 
 the Town Brook, and were mostly cleared land, be- 
 ing the ancient Indian corn land. The following di- 
 vision of lands is taken from the Old Colony Re- 
 cords, vol. 1, pages 4 to 11 inclusive. An exact tran- 
 script from the records has been made with care, and 
 the ancient spelling has been retained. There will 
 be found some slight variations from the same doc- 
 ument, as contained in Hazard's Collections. 
 
124 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 ' The falles of their grounds which came first over 
 in the May Floure, according as their lots were 
 cast, 1623. 
 
 The number of akers to each one. 
 
 * Robert Cochman, 
 
 1 Mr. Isaak Allerton, 
 
 7 
 
 Mr. William Brewster, 
 
 6 John Billington, 
 
 3 
 
 William Bradford, 
 
 3 Peter Browen, 
 
 1 
 
 Richard Gardener, 
 
 1 Samuel Fuller, 
 
 2 
 
 Frances Cooke, 
 
 2 f Joseph Rogers, 
 
 2 
 
 George Soule, 
 
 1 
 
 
 These contain twenty-nine akers. 
 These lye on the south side of the brooke, to the 
 
 bay -wards. 
 
 These lye on the south side of the brooke, to the 
 
 woodward, opposite to the former. 
 
 John Howland, 4 Edward, 1 
 
 Stephen Hopkins, 6 Gilbard Winslow, 1 
 
 $ Edward, 1 Samuel Fuller, Juneor, 3 
 
 These contain sixteen akers, besides Hobamak's 
 
 ground, which lieth between Jo. Rowland's and Hop- 
 
 kinses. 
 
 This five akers lyeth behind the fort to the little 
 
 pond. 
 
 William White, 5 
 
 Edward Winslow, 4 
 
 * In a note to the N. E. Memorial, p. 376, Judge Davis considers 
 that by this name Robert Cushman is intended. 
 
 t Rogers was probably a son of Thomas Rogers, who came in the 
 Mayflower, and died the first winter. 
 
 J The blanks to this name should be filled with Dotey, or Doten. 
 and the next with Leister. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 125 
 
 Richard Warren, 2 
 
 John Goodman, ] [The figureg which 
 
 John Crackstone, I were annexed tQ these 
 
 John Alden, [ nameg are ob i ite rated.] 
 
 * Marie Hilton, J 
 
 Captin Miles Standish, 2 
 
 Francis Eaton, 4 
 
 Henerie Samson, 1 
 
 Humilitie Cooper, 1 
 
 These lye on the north side of the towne, next ad- 
 joining to their gardens which came in the Fortune. 
 
 The fales of their grounds which came in the for- 
 tune, according as their lots were cast, (1623.) 
 These lye to the sea, eastward. 
 
 William Hilton, 1 
 
 John Win slow, 1 
 
 William Coner 1 William Tench, 
 
 John Adams, 1 John Cannon, 
 
 These following lye beyonde the . 2 . Brooke. 
 
 Hugh Statie, 1 Austen Nicolas, 1 
 
 William Beale, ) Widow Foord, 4 
 
 Thomas Cushman, ) ? 
 Fifteen acres. . 
 These lye beyond the first brooke, to the wood west- 
 ward. 
 
 William Wright, ) James Steward, 1 
 
 William Pitt, j 2 William Palmer, 2 
 
 * This name has heretofore been copied wrong, and called Mary 
 Hilton. The record is worn, but is evidently meant for Mary Chil- 
 ton. • 
 11* 
 
126 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Robert Hickes, 1 Jonathan Brewster, 1 
 
 Thomas Prence, 1 Benet Morgan, 1 
 
 Steven Dean, 1 Thomas Flavell ) 
 
 Moyses Simonson, ) 2 and his son. ) 
 
 Philipe de la noye, J Thomas Morton, 1 
 Edward Bompass, 1 William Bassite, 2 
 
 Clement Brigges, 1 
 
 Nineteen akers. 
 The fales of their grounds which came over in the 
 shipe called the Anne, according as their [lots] were 
 cast, 1623. 
 
 James Rande, 1 aker. 
 
 These following lye beyond the brooke to Straw- 
 berie hill. 
 
 Edmond Flood, - - - 1 
 
 Christopher Connant, - - 1 
 
 Francis Cooke, ... 4 
 
 These butt against the Swampe and Reed Ponde. 
 George Morton, ) - 8 
 
 Experience Michell, ) 
 Christian Penn, 1 
 
 Thomas Morton, Junior, - - 1 
 
 William Hilton's wife and two children, 3 
 These to the sea Eastward. 
 
 Francis Spragge, 3 
 
 Edward Burcher, - - - 2 
 
 John Jenings, ... 5 
 
 Goodwife Flavell, - - 1 
 
 Manasseh and John Fance, - 2 
 
 This goeth in with a corner by the pond. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 127 
 
 Allice Bradford, 1 
 
 Robert Hickes, his wife and children, 4 
 
 Brigett Fuller, 1 
 
 Ellen Newton, - - 1 
 
 Pacience and Fear Brewster, j _ 3 
 
 with Robert Long, ) 
 
 William Heard, ... 1 
 
 Ms. Standish, - - - 1 
 
 These following lye on the other side of the towne 
 towards the Eele river. 
 
 Marie Bucket, adjoining to Joseph Rogers, 1 
 
 Mr. Ouldom and those joyned with him, 10 
 
 Cudbart Cudbartsom, - - 6 
 
 Anthony Anable, 4 
 
 Thomas Tilden, - - - 3 
 
 * Richard Warren - - - 5 
 
 Bangs, - - - 4 
 
 Robert RatlifFe, beyond the Swampe 
 and Stony grounde, 
 
 These butt against Hobs-hole. 
 
 Nicolas Snow, - - 1 
 
 Anthony Dixe, - - - Q 
 
 Mr. Perce's 2 Servants - - g 
 
 RalfeWalen, J, 
 
 South Side. 
 Steph. Tracy, three acres — 3 
 
 Tho. Clarke, one acre 1 
 
 Robt. Bartlett, one acre 1 
 
 * The number of acres, against this name is erroneous in Hazard's 
 collection, and should be 5 instead of 6. 
 
128 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 North Side. 
 
 Edw. Holman, 1 acre 1 
 
 Frances, wife to 
 
 
 ! 
 
 Joshua Pratt, } 2 
 
 Phineas Pratt, J 
 
 Plymouth Colony Records, p. 4tto 11. 
 
 ALPHABETICAL LIST OF PASSENGERS 
 
 Who arrived at Plymouth in ilie Mayflower, 180 tons 
 burthen. Dec. 2\st, 1620, — the Fortune of 55 tons, 
 Nov. 9th, 1621 — the Ann of 140 tons, and the Lit- 
 tle James of 44 tons, tlie last of July or the beginning 
 of August, 1623. 
 
 The letters attached to each name indicate the ves- 
 sel in which they came, m for the Mayflower — f 
 for the Fortune — a for the Ann and Little James. 
 
 NAMES OF PASSENGERS. NAMES OF PASSENGERS. 
 
 A m Mr. William Brewster 
 
 m Mr. Isaac Allerton m John Billington 
 
 m John Aid en m Peter Brown 
 
 m John Allerton u Richard Britterige 
 
 f John Adams f William Bassite 
 
 a Anthony Annable f William Beale 
 
 f Edward Bompasse 
 
 B f Jonathan Brewster 
 
 V Mr. William Bradford f Clement Brigges 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 129 
 
 a Edward Bangs 
 a Robert Bartlett 
 a Fear Brewster 
 a Patience Brewster 
 a Mary Bucket 
 a Edward Btircher 
 
 C 
 
 m Mr. John Carver 
 m Francis Cook 
 m James Chilton 
 m John Crackston 
 m Richard Clarke 
 f John Cannon 
 f William Coner 
 f Robert Cushman 
 f Thomas Cushman 
 a Thomas Clarke 
 a Cuthbert Cuthbertson 
 a Chistopher Conant, 
 
 D 
 
 m Edward Dotey 
 f Stephen Deane 
 a Anthony Dix 
 f Philip de La Noye 
 
 E 
 m Francis Eaton 
 m Thomas English 
 
 m Mr. Samuel Fuller 
 
 m Edward Fuller 
 
 m Moses Fletcher 
 
 f Thomas Flavell and son. 
 
 f Widow Foord 
 
 a John Faunce 
 
 a Manasseh Faunce 
 
 a Good wife Flavell 
 
 a Edmund Flood 
 
 a Bridget Fuller 
 
 G 
 m John Goodman 
 m Richard Gardiner 
 
 H 
 
 m John Howland 
 
 m Mr. Stephen Hopkins 
 
 f Robert Hi ekes 
 
 f William Hilton 
 
 a Timothy Hatherly 
 
 a William Heard 
 
 a Margaret Hickes and her 
 
 children 
 a William Hilton's wife 
 
 and children 
 a Edward Holraan 
 
130 
 
 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 a John Jen n v 
 
 m Edward Leister 
 a Robert Long. 
 
 M 
 
 m Mr. Christopher Martin 
 
 m Mr. William Mullins 
 
 m Edmund Margeson 
 
 f Benet Morgan 
 
 f Thomas Morton 
 
 a Experience Mitchell 
 
 a George Morton 
 
 a Thomas Morton, Jr. 
 
 N 
 f Austin Nicolas 
 a Ellen Newton 
 
 O 
 
 a John Oldham/ 
 
 m Degory Priest 
 f William Palmer 
 f William Pitt 
 f Thomas Pre nee 
 a Frances Palmer 
 
 a Mr. Perce's two ser- 
 vants 
 a Joshua Pratt 
 a Christian Penn 
 
 R 
 
 m Thomas Rogers 
 m John Ridgdale 
 a James Rand 
 a Robert Rattline • 
 
 m Capt. Miles Standish 
 m George Soule 
 f Moses Simonson 
 f Hugh Statie 
 f James Steward 
 a Nicholas Snow 
 a Alice South worth 
 a Francis Sprague 
 a Barbary Standish 
 
 m Edward Tilly 
 m John Tilly 
 m Thomas Tinker 
 M John Turner 
 a Thomas Tilden 
 a Stephen Tracy 
 f William Tench 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 131 
 
 W m Gilbert Winslow 
 
 m Mr. Edward Winslow f John Winslow 
 
 m Mr. William White f William Wright 
 
 m Mr. Richard Warren a Ralph Wallen. 
 m Thomas Williams 
 
 Several names contained in the foregoing list, are 
 differently spelt in modern times, namely : Eassite 
 is now spelt Bassett ; Bompasse, Bnmpas, sometimes 
 Bump; Burcher is probably the same as Burchard, 
 the name of an early settler in Connecticut ; De La 
 Noye, Delano; Dotey is on our records called Dote, 
 Dotey, and now frequently written Doten ; Simon- 
 son, sometimes written Symons, is now Simmons. 
 
 This list is copied from the allotment of lands in 
 1823, found in the Old Colony Records, Vol. 1, pages 
 4 to 11 inclusive. 
 
 1627. The articles of agreement between the pil- 
 grims and merchant adventurers of London have al- 
 ready been mentioned on p. 27. Soon after the 
 landing in Plymouth in 1620, a spirit of impatience 
 and disaffection was manifested by the merchant ad- 
 venturers — no doubt occasioned by the disappoint- 
 ment of speedy returns for their investments — a cir- 
 cumstance by no means strange, at a time when spec- 
 ulation was so general, and eager for gain — an illus- 
 tration of which spirit might readily be found in the 
 experience of our own country during the years 1836 
 and '37 — when innumerable companies were form- 
 
132 
 
 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 ed, from motives very similar to those which govern- 
 ed the merchant adventurers of London — with this 
 difference, however, that with respect to the latter, 
 jealousies arose in relation to religious views — and 
 that sectarianism and the love of gain both combined, 
 in producing a discordant spirit, highly injurious to the 
 pilgrims, both as to their worldly interests and spirit- 
 ual concerns. The feeling existing among the ad- 
 venturers is clearly expressed in a letter of Mr. Rob- 
 inson to Elder Brewster, dated Dec. 10, 1623 — men- 
 tioned by Gov. Bradford, and quoted by Prince, p. 
 146, • wherein he writes of the deferring of their 
 transportation through the opposition of some of the 
 adventurers ; five or six being absolutely bent for 
 them, above all others ; five or six are their professed 
 adversaries, the rest more indifferent, yet influenced 
 by the latter, who above all others are unwilling that 
 he should be transported/ &c. The opposition to the 
 removal of Robinson and that part of the flock then 
 at Leyden, probably arose from the expense it would 
 occasion — and perhaps some mixture of sectarian 
 jealousy. Under these circumstances, it was deem- 
 ed expedient by the government of Plymouth to 
 make some compromise with the merchant adven- 
 turers — and to dissolve the connection existing be- 
 tween them and the colony, which from various 
 causes had become injurious to both parties, but 
 more particularly so to the latter, in the hindrance 
 of its growth. This negotiation was entrusted to Mr. 
 Isaac Allerton, through whose discretion, talents and 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OP THE PILGRIMS. 133 
 
 perseverance it was at last accomplished. In 1627 
 he embarked for England, to ratify the bargain he 
 had made with the merchant adventurers, bearing 
 date November 15, 1626, which may be found in the 
 Massachusetts Historical Collections, vol. 3, p. 48, Jst 
 Series, — and the names subscribed to the same in 
 Appendix A. of this work. The price paid the ad- 
 venturers was eighteen hundred pounds sterling, pay- 
 able in bonds of 200 pounds each at Michaelmas, for 
 nine years. One object of the pilgrims in making 
 this arrangement was to facilitate the removal of their 
 brethren from Leyden with their families, who were 
 unable to bear the expense of transportation. An- 
 other object was to discharge their just engagements 
 to the adventurers. Perhaps no stronger temptation 
 ever existed to refuse payment, than in this case. 
 They had been treated with contumely on the part of 
 the adventurers — unreasonable complaints had been 
 made — unjust slanders had been uttered against 
 them — and they were three thousand miles distant. 
 It is therefore just ground of rejoicing, that the pil- 
 grims, under the temptation of poverty, and in 
 the midst of their varied trials, scorned, under any 
 pretence or consideration whatever, to countenance 
 the modern doctrine of repudiation, which has in later 
 times disgraced some portions of our country. In 
 the Appendix D. of this book, there will be found a 
 document showing the losses of some of the princi- 
 pal men of the colony, occasioned by their bonds 
 given to the adventurers as security. 
 12 
 
134 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 DIVISION OF CATTLE AND FURTHER DI- 
 VISION OF LANDS. 
 
 After the arrangement with the merchant adven- 
 turers — when the colony was no longer in any sense 
 dependent upon them — a division of the cattle was 
 made as follows : 
 
 At a public Court, held the 22d of May, it was 
 concluded, by the whole Company, That the Cattle, 
 which were the Company's, to wit, the Cows and the 
 Goats, should be equally divided to all the persons of 
 the same Company ; and so kept, until the expira- 
 tion of ten years after the date above written ; and 
 that every one should well and sufficiently provide 
 for his own part, under penalty of forfeiting the same. 
 
 That the Old Stock, with half the increase, should 
 remain for common use, to be divided at the end of* 
 the said term ; or otherwise as occasion falleth out. 
 The other half to be their own forever. 
 
 Upon which agreement they were equally divided 
 by lots, so as the burthen of keeping the males then 
 being, should be borne for common use, by those to 
 whose lot the best cows should fall. And so the lots 
 fell as followeth ; thirteen persons being apportioned 
 to one lot. 
 
 1. The first lot fell to Francis Cooke and his Com- 
 pany ; joined to him his wife Hester Cooke, 
 3 John Cooke, 4 Jacob Cooke, 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 135 
 
 5 Jane Cooke, 10 Experience Michael!, 
 
 6 Hester Cooke, 11 John Ffance, 
 
 7 Mary Cooke, 12 Joshua Pratt, 
 
 8 Moses Simonson, 13 Phinihas Pratt. 
 
 9 Phillip Delanoy 
 
 To this lot fell the least of the four black heifers, 
 came in the Jacob, and two she goats. 
 
 2. The second lot fell to Mr. Isaac Alierton, and 
 his company; joined to him his wife Fear Alierton, 
 3 Bartholomew Alierton, 9 Samuel Godberson, 
 Remember Alierton, 
 
 Mary Alierton, 
 Sarah Alierton, 
 Godber Godberson, 
 Sarah Godberson, 
 
 10 Marra Priest 
 
 11 Sarah Priest, 
 
 12 Edward Bumpasse, 
 
 13 John Crakstone. 
 
 To this lot fell the great black cow, came in the 
 Ann, to which they must keep the lesser of the two 
 steers, and two she goats. 
 
 3. The third lot fell to Capt. Standish and his 
 Company; joined to him his wife Barbara Standish, 
 
 3 Charles Standish, 
 
 4 Alexander Standish, 
 
 5 John Standish, 
 
 6 Edward Win slow, 
 
 7 Susanna Winslow, 
 
 8 Edward Winslow, 
 
 To this lot fell the red cow, which belongeth to the 
 poor of the colony; to which they must keep her calf 
 of this year, being a bull, for the Company. Also to 
 this lot came two she goats. 
 
 9 John Winslow, 
 
 10 Resolved White, 
 
 1 1 Peregrine White, 
 
 12 Abraham Pierce, 
 
 13 Thomas Clarke. 
 
136 
 
 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 4. The fourth lot fell to John Howland and his 
 company; joined to him his wife, 
 
 2 Elizabeth Howland, 
 
 3 John Howland, Jun. 
 
 4 Desire Howland, 
 
 5 William Wright, 
 
 6 Thomas Morton, Jim. 
 
 7 John Alden, 
 
 8 Priscilla Alden, 
 
 9 Elizabeth Alden, 
 
 10 Clement Briggs, 
 
 11 Edward Dotton, 
 
 12 Edward Holdman, 
 
 13 Jo. Alden. 
 
 To this lot fell one of the four heifers, came in the 
 Jacob, called Raghorn., 
 
 5 The fifth lot fell to Mr. William Brewster and 
 his company ; joined to him, 
 
 2 Love Brewster, 
 
 3 Wrestling Brewster, 
 
 4 Richard More, 
 
 5 Henri Samson, 
 
 6 Jonathan Brewster, 
 
 7 Lucrecia Brewster 
 
 8 William Brewster, 
 
 9 Mary Brewster, 
 
 10 Thomas Prince, 
 
 11 Pacience Prince, 
 
 12 Rebecka Prince, 
 
 13 Humilitie Cooper. 
 
 To this lot fell one of the four heifers, came in the 
 Jacob, called the Blind Heifer, and two she goats. 
 
 6. The sixth lot fell to John Shaw and his com- 
 pany ; joined to him, 
 
 2 John Adams, 
 
 3 Eliner Adams, 
 
 4 James Adams, 
 
 5 John Win slow, 
 
 6 Mary Winslow, 
 
 8 Elizabeth Basset, 
 
 9 William Bassite, Jun. 
 
 10 Elizabeth Basset, Jun. 
 
 11 Francis Sprague, 
 12 Anna Sprague, 
 
 7 William Bassett, 13 Mercye Sprague. 
 To this lot fell the lesser of the black cows, came 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 137 
 
 at first ill the Ann; with which they must keep the 
 biggest of the two steers. Also to this lot was two 
 she goats. 
 
 7. The seventh lot fell to Stephen Hopkins and his 
 companie ; joined to him his wife, 
 
 2 Elizabeth Hopkins, 8 William Palmer, 
 
 3 Giles Hopkins, 9 Frances Palmer, 
 
 4 Caleb Hopkins, 10 William Palmer, Jun. 
 
 5 Debora Hopkins, 11 John Billington, Sen. 
 
 6 Nickolas Snow, 12 Hellen Billington, 
 
 7 Constance Snow, 13 Francis Billington. 
 
 To this lot fell a black weaning calf; to which was 
 added the calfe of this year, to come of the black 
 cow, which fell to John Shaw and his companie, 
 which, proving a bull, they were to keep it five years 
 for common use, and after to make the best of it. 
 Nothing belongeth of these two for the Company of 
 the first stock, but only half the increase. 
 
 To this lot there fell two she goats ; which goats 
 they possess on the like terms which others do their 
 cattle. 
 
 8. The eighth lot fell to Samuel Fuller and his 
 company; joined to him his wife, 
 
 2 Bridget Fuller, 
 
 8 Martha Ford, 
 
 3 Samuel Fuller, Jun. 
 
 3 Anthony Anable, 
 
 4 Peter Browne, 
 
 10 Jane Anable, 
 
 5 Martha Browne, 
 
 11 Sara Anable, 
 
 6 Mary Browne, 
 
 12 Hannah Anable, 
 
 7 John Ford, 
 
 13 Damaris Hopkins. 
 
 12* 
 
 
138 
 
 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 To this lot fell a red heifer, came of the cow which 
 belongeth to the poor of the colony, and is of that con- 
 sideration, viz. these persons nominated to have half 
 the increase, the other half, with the old stock, to re- 
 main for the use of the poor. To this lot also two she 
 goats. 
 
 9. The ninth lot fell to Richard Warren and his 
 company ; joined with him his wife Elizabeth War- 
 ren, 
 
 3 Nathaniel Warren, 
 
 4 Joseph Warren, 
 
 5 Mary Warren, 
 
 6 Ann Warren, 
 
 7 Sara Warren, 
 
 8 Elizabeth Warren, 
 
 To this lot fell one of the four black heyfers that 
 came in the Jacob, called the Smooth Horned Heif- 
 er, and two she goats. 
 
 9 Abigail Warren, 
 
 10 John Billington, 
 
 11 George Sowle, 
 
 12 Mary Sowle, 
 
 13 Zachariah Sowle, 
 
 10. The tenth lot fell to Ffrancis Eaton and those 
 joined with him, his wife Christian Eaton, 
 
 3 Samuel Eaton, 
 
 4 Rahell Eaton, 
 
 5 Stephen Tracie, 
 
 6 Triphosa Tracie, 
 
 7 Sarah Tracie, 
 
 8 Rebecka Tracie. 
 
 To this lot fell an heifer of the last year, called the 
 White Bellied Heifer, and two she goats. 
 
 9 Ralph Wallen, 
 
 10 Joyce Wallen, 
 
 11 Sarah Morton, 
 
 12 Robert Bartlett, 
 
 13 Thomas Prence. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 139 
 
 11. The eleventh lot fell to the Governour, Mr. 
 William Bradford, and those with him, to wit, his 
 wife, 
 
 2 Alice Bradford, and 8 Manasses Kempton, 
 
 3 William Bradford, Jun. 9 Julian Kempton, 
 
 4 Mercy Bradford, 10 Nathaniel Morton, 
 
 5 Joseph Rogers, 11 John Morion, 
 
 6 Thomas Cushman, 12 Ephraim Morton, 
 
 7 William Latham, 13 Patience Morton. 
 
 To this lot fell an heifer of the last year, which 
 was of the great white back cow, that was brought 
 over in the Ann, and two she goats. 
 
 12. The twelfth lot fell to John Jene and his com- 
 pany; joined to him his wife, 
 
 2 Sarah Jenne, 8 Samuel Hickes, 
 
 3 Samuel Jenne, 9 Ephraim Hickes, 
 
 4 Abigail Jenne, 10 Lydia Hickes, 
 
 5 Sarah Jene, 11 Phebe Hickes, 
 
 6 Robert Hickes, 12 Stephen Deane, 
 
 7 Margaret Hickes, 13 Edward Bangs. 
 
 To this lot fell the great white back cow, which 
 was brought over with the first, in the Ann ; to which 
 cow the keeping of the bull was joined for these 
 presents to provide for. Here also two she goats. 
 
 1627, May the 22d. It was further agreed at the 
 same court, ' That if any of the cattle should by ac- 
 cident miscarry, or be lost or hurt, that the same 
 should be taken knowledge of by indifferent men, 
 
140 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 and judged whether the loss came by the negligence 
 or default of those betmsted ; and if they were found 
 faulty, that then such should be forced to make satis- 
 faction for the companies, as also their partner's dam- 
 age.' 
 
 The above is a literal transcript from the Old Col- 
 ony Records, vol. 1st. There are two errors contain- 
 ed in the list found in Hazard's Collection, viz. in the 
 first share Josiah Prat should be Joshua Prat. 
 
 The 3d of January, 1627. It was agreed in a full 
 court, about division of lands, as followeth : 
 
 1. That the first division of the acres should stand 
 and continue firme, according to the former division 
 made unto the possessors thereof, and to their heirs 
 forever, free liberty being reserved to all, to get fire- 
 wood thereon ; but the timber trees were excepted 
 for the owners of the ground. 
 
 2. That the second division should consist of 20 
 acres to every person, and containe five in breadth 
 and four in length ; and so accordingly to be divided 
 by lot to every one which was to have share therein. 
 
 3. The ground to be judged sufficient before the 
 lots were drawne, and the rest to be left to common 
 use. 
 
 4. This being done, that for our better subsist- 
 ence and convenience, those grounds which are near- 
 est the towne, in whose lot so ever they fall, shall be 
 used by the whole, for the space of four years from 
 the date hereof, viz. first, that the right owner make 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OP THE PILGRIMS. 141 
 
 choice of twice that quantity he shall or may use, 
 within the said terme, and then to take to him such 
 neighbors as shall have need and he thinks fite ; but 
 if they cannot agree, then the governor and council 
 may appoint as they think meet : Provided that the 
 woods be ordered for felling and loping according as 
 the owner shall appoint ; for neither fire wood nor 
 
 other timber, either for or fencing, or any other 
 
 use be felled carried off of any of these 
 
 lots, without the owners leave or license, but he is to 
 preserve them best advantage. * 
 
 5. That whatsoever the surveyers judge sufficient 
 shall stand without contradiction or opposition, and 
 every man shall rest contented with his lot. 
 
 6. That after the purchasers are served as afore- 
 said, that then such planters as are heirs to such as 
 died before the right of the land was yielded to the 
 adventurers, have also 20 acres, a person proportion- 
 able to their right laid out in part of their inheritance. 
 
 7. That first they shall begine, near the acres of 
 the first division end, and lay out that to the Eell 
 River, so far as shall be thought fit by the surveyors ; 
 and return to the north side of the town, and so pro- 
 ceed accordingly ; and that they shall leave all great 
 timber swamps for common use. 
 
 8. That fowling, fishing and hunting shall be 
 free. 
 
 9. That the old path ways be still allowed, and 
 that every man be allowed a convenient way to the 
 water wheresoever the lot fall. 
 
142 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 10. Lastly, that every man of the surveyors have 
 each a peck of corn for every share of land laid out by 
 them, payed by the owner thereof, when the same is 
 laid out. 
 
 The names of the layers out were these : William 
 Bradford, Edward Winslow, John Rowland, Francis 
 Cook, Joshua Pratt, Edward Bangs. 
 
 After the arrangements with the merchant adven- 
 turers were fully completed, eight individuals of the 
 colony hired its trade for the term of six years. 
 These individuals were William Bradford, Captain 
 Miles Standish, Isaac Allerton, Edward Winslow, 
 William Brewster, John Howland, John Alden, Thom- 
 as Prence — to whom were afterwards joined James 
 Shirley, John Beauchamp, Richard Andrews, and 
 Timothy Hatherly of London. These were called 
 undertakers — and in consideration of having under- 
 taken and agreed ' to pay, discharge, and acquit the 
 said colony of all the debts, both due for the pur- 
 chase, or any way belonging to the same ; ' and also 
 agreeing to furnish annually in hose and shoes, for 
 the colony's use, to the amount of fifty pounds — to 
 be sold them for corn at 65. per bushel, — were to 
 have the exclusive trade of the colony for six years, 
 and ' to have and freely enjoy the pinnace, the boat 
 at Manomet, and the Shallop called the Bass boat, 
 with all other implements to them belonging, that is in 
 the store of the company, with the whole stock of furs, 
 fells, beads, corn, wampampeak, hatchets, knifes, fee., 
 that is now in the store or any way due unto the same 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 143 
 
 upon account.' * This arrangement enabled the col- 
 ony to pay off its debts and to secure the means of 
 transporting that part of the church which remained 
 at Ley den — though not without great individual ef- 
 forts and sacrifices on the part of the undertakers of it. 
 This year a friendly communication was opened 
 with the Dutch plantation, settled at Hudson's River. 
 A letter was received from Isaac de Razer, dated 
 from the Manhatas in the fort Amsterdam, March 9, 
 1627, N. S., directed to the Governor of New Plym- 
 outh, and was replied to in a friendly spirit on the 
 19th of the same month. In the spring of 1628, oth- 
 er letters were received from the same source, and 
 afterwards articles of traffic were forwarded in a bark 
 to Manomet, * with the Secretary Rassier as passen- 
 ger. Governor Bradford sends a boat and brings him 
 and his company to Plymouth. From this time for 
 many years after, a profitable trade was conducted 
 to the mutual benefit of both parties. Upon this oc- 
 casion the colonists first commenced the traffic in 
 wampam, which eventually proved a valuable source 
 of income. 
 
 1628. This year a trading house was erected by 
 the colony high up the Kennebeck River. 
 
 1629. This year, much difficulty was occasioned 
 by Thomas Morten, who dwelt at Mount Wallas- 
 ton, t in what is now called Quincy. He came 
 
 * See Mass. His. Col. vol. 3, 1st series, p. 60. 
 t Mount Wallaston is a beautiful swell of land, rising 100 feet 
 
144 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 over with Captain Wallaston and about thirty others 
 in the year 1635. Wallaston left the plantation in 
 1626 — and Morton contrived to become the chief 
 manager there. His licentious and unprincipled con- 
 duct became matter of alarm to the colony of Plym- 
 outh and other settlers in the country. He became 
 quite a favorite among the Indians, and not only sup- 
 plied them with fire arms, but instructed them in 
 their use, and employed them in hunting. The ap- 
 prehension of settlers in different parts of the coun- 
 try, led them to solicit the aid of the Plymouth colo- 
 nists to suppress the establishment of Morton, which 
 
 above high water, delightfully situated, within about 80 rods of 
 Quincy Bay, and commands a fine view of the islands and forts in the 
 harbor, as well as Boston and the surrounding country. It is three- 
 fourths of a mile northeast of the Stone Church in Quincy, and two 
 miles to the northwest of what is called Old Spain, where Weston's 
 colony was settled. There is now standing on this mount a solitary, 
 time-worn red cedar tree, six feet and four inches in circumference, 
 at the distance of 10 inches above the ground. Its appearance, and 
 the traditions of Quincy, render it not improbable that this relic of 
 olden time formed a part of the grove, — so favorable for the orgies 
 of Thomas Morton and his dissolute associates. 
 
 On viewing this remaining veteran of the primitive evergreens, 
 which once decorated this beautiful spot, who would not indulge, at 
 least the .temporary wish, to find ' tongues in trees,' not merely in a 
 poetical, but in a more literal sense ; and to become an auditor of the 
 tale it might rehearse of the past ; the withering rebukes which it 
 might utter against perverted talents and unrighteous deeds — till as- 
 suming a more chastened and cheerful tone as succeeding periods are 
 unfolded, it should well on the lives of Tomson, Flint, Hancock and 
 Bryant in the church, and the Adamses, Quincies and Greenleafs, 
 distinguished in the State ; the splendor of whose fame, while it 
 throws into dim obscuiity the stain of earlier days, is destined to 
 illumine the pathway of the future. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OP THE PILGRIMS. 145 
 
 they agreed to undertake, after repeated expostula- 
 tions had proved unavailing. Capt. Standish was 
 deputed for this purpose — and coming to the resi- 
 dence of Morion, found him prepared to resist — but 
 in his usually decisive way, disarmed and made him 
 prisoner. He was sent prisoner to England, but suf- 
 fered to return again the next year without punish- 
 ment. The expense of this expedition against Mor- 
 ton was £12 75, of which Plymouth paid £2 10s, 
 besides their trouble in other respects. 
 
 The following extract from a letter of the late Pres- 
 ident Adams, directed to the printer of the Old Colo- 
 ny Memorial, at Plymouth, dated May 18, 1822, 
 throws some light on the character of Morton and 
 others of a similar stamp : 
 
 • But the first settlers of New England had emis- 
 saries sent out with the express purpose of counter- 
 acting and destroying their puritanical establish- 
 ments. The character of Sir Christopher Gardiner, 
 of Weston, the heart of the establishment of Wes- 
 saguscus, and Thomas Morton, of Mount Wallaston, 
 ought to be minutely investigated. They were all in 
 the confidence of Archbishop Laud, as appears ex- 
 plicitly by the writings of Thomas Morton, in his 
 New Canaan. This Thomas Morton was as great 
 a plague to our forefathers, as Tom. Paine has been 
 in our days. His writings, conduct and character 
 ought to be examined, and stated at full length. 
 He and those other emissaries furnished the Indians 
 13 
 
146 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 with arms, and taught them the use of them ; and 
 what was worse — gave them spirituous liquors and 
 commenced their habits of intoxication.' 
 
 1G37. This year is memorable on account of the 
 Pequot war, which terminated in the destruction of 
 that tribe. The Colony Records mention the names 
 of 38 individuals who volunteered their services to 
 aid the colonies of Massachusetts and Connecticut. 
 Lieutenant William Holmes was appointed leader of 
 the expedition, and Mr. Thomas Prence, counsellor 
 of war. Their services were not needed, the war 
 having been speedily terminated before their em- 
 barkation for the scene of action. 
 
 1643. The New England Confederacy of 1643. 
 This important event in the history of America, was 
 suggested to the colonies, by the experience of the 
 Pequot war — and became the subject of discussion 
 at that time, and was required by the extended settle- 
 tlements of the English, at that early period, which 
 exposed them to hostilities not only from the natives, 
 but from the French settlements in Canada, and the 
 Dutch at New Amsterdam. # 'The New England 
 Confederation originated in the Plymouth colony, and 
 was probably suggested to them by the example which 
 they had witnessed, and under which they had lived 
 several years in the United Netherlands.' The New 
 
 * See John Q. Adams' discourse, Mass. His. Col. vol. 9, 3d series. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 147 
 
 England confederacy was confined to the Puritan 
 emigration from England. Its elements were all ho- 
 mogeneous in their nature, and its professed design 
 to continue them one in political organization, as 
 they were in nation and religion, was no difficult 
 achievement. The New England confederacy of 
 1643 was the model and prototype of the North 
 American confederacy. In neither of the two cases 
 was the measure authorized or sanctioned by the 
 charters of the several colonies, parties to the com- 
 pact. In both cases it was the great law of nature, 
 and of nature's God. * The final dissolution of the 
 confederacy was occasioned by the tyranny of James 
 the second, in seizing and vacating the charter of the 
 Massachusetts and Plymouth colonies.' The last 
 meeting of the commissioners, as appears from their 
 records, was in March, 1678. Mr. Edward Winslow 
 and Mr. William Collor were the commissioners on 
 the part of Plymouth colony, in the formation of this 
 confederacy.' 
 
 Up to the year 1664 the meetings of the commis- 
 sioners were held annually ; but afterwards were tri- 
 ennial. These meetings were held at Boston, Plym- 
 outh, Hartford and New Haven, alternately, except- 
 ing that in the rotation two successive meetings were 
 held in Boston. 
 
 1675. Philip's War. This interesting period in 
 history — upon which hung the destiny of the whole 
 white population of New England — is probably 
 
148 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 more familiar to the community, than almost any 
 event in our early history ; — and its causes — pro- 
 gress and conclusion — have engaged the attention of 
 various historians, from the attractive pages of Church 
 — the second Standish of New England — to the 
 more labored and comprehensive relations of Hub- 
 bard, Drake and others. 
 
 We have room only to remark that Gov ; Josiah 
 "Winslow, Col. Benjamin Church, William Bradford, 
 son of Gov. Bradford, Capt. Michael Pierce, and Jabez 
 Howland, son of John Howland, and others of the old 
 colony, were distinguished and prominent actors in 
 this memorable struggle, for supremacy between the 
 English and aboriginal races, which resulted in the 
 death of King Philip or Metacome, in August, 1676, 
 the dispersion of his followers, and the uninterrupted 
 possession of New England. The following general 
 remarks of a distinguished writer on this subject are 
 subjoined. * ' Yet the war which broke out in 1675, 
 commonly called King Philip's war, can hardly be 
 ascribed to this or any other particular circumstance, 
 and appears to have been the unavoidable result of 
 the relative situation in which the Indians and whites 
 were placed. Collisions had during the preceding 
 period often occurred, but no actual hostilities of any 
 importance had taken place ; and Massachusetts, par- 
 ticularly, though exposed to obloquy on that account, 
 always interposed to prevent war. If the Indians 
 
 * Hon. Albert Gallaton. See Transactions of the American Anti- 
 quarian Society, vol. 2. p. 39. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 149 
 
 were not always kindly, it cannot be said that they 
 were in genera] unjustly treated. With the excep- 
 tion of the conquered Pequods, no lands were ever 
 forcibly taken from them. They were all gradually 
 purchased from those sachems respectively in whose 
 possession they were. But there, as every where 
 else, the Indians, after a certain length of time, found 
 that in selling their lands they had lost their usual 
 means of subsistence, that they were daily diminish- 
 ing, that the gradual progress of the whites was irre- 
 sistible, and as a last effort, though too late, they 
 attempted to get rid of the intruders.* 
 
 FIRST CHURCH IN PLYMOUTH. 
 
 It is not proposed, in this book, to enter into any 
 minute details concerning the ecclesiastical history of 
 the Plymouth Colony. The only endeavor will be to 
 bring together into one brief statement, a few general 
 and important facts, gleaned from the most authentic 
 sources of information. It is well known, that the 
 removal of the Pilgrims from England to Holland, 
 whence they sailed to America, was one of the 
 results of that great religious movement during the 
 latter part of the sixteenth and the first part of the 
 seventeenth centuries, which for a long time con- 
 vulsed, and, at last, revolutionized England itself. 
 
 * See Appendix D. for estimated expenses of the war, &c. 
 
 13* 
 
150 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 They voluntarily exiled themselves to obtain that 
 freedom which their brethren who remained, at last 
 gained by the sword. In 1607, the church under the 
 care of Mr. John Robinson, determined to remove 
 from their native land. Six persons, 'men of piety 
 and learning,' holding similar opinions, had already 
 suffered martyrdom. Some of their own friends were 
 imprisoned. They were all exposed to continually 
 increasing disabilities and persecutions. The only 
 alternatives before them were, a conformity to the 
 Church they deemed so corrupt, or a series of bitter 
 persecutions, or a voluntary exile. 
 
 Their first attempt at removal to the low countries 
 was made in 1607. It was unsuccessful. They were 
 betrayed by the captain of the ship they had hired for 
 this purpose, and delivered into the hands of the 
 magistrates of Lincolnshire, and some of them suf- 
 fered imprisonment. 
 
 In the spring of 1608, another and a successful 
 attempt was made by a part of their number, and 
 after encountering a violent storm, wherein they were 
 in most imminent danger of shipwreck, they arrived 
 in safety at Amsterdam. The remainder of the com- 
 pany, after many trials in England, soon joined them, 
 together with Mr. Robinson, their pastor, and Mr. 
 Brewster, their ruling elder. In a few months, how- 
 ever, they removed to the city of Leyden, where 
 they remained until they sailed to this country. 
 
 Different impressions seem to have been enter- 
 tained concerning their situation, during the eleven 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OP THE PILGRIMS. 151 
 
 or twelve years of their residence at Leyden. Their 
 numbers were greatly increased by emigrations from 
 various parts of England, and they became a large 
 congregation.* But recent researches make it appear 
 that they were not treated there with that considera- 
 tion and respect which have sometimes been sup- 
 posed. They probably lived in care and in poverty. 
 As the 'Memoirs of the Pilgrims at Leyden,' t by 
 George Sumner, Esq., published in vol. 9, third 
 series, of the Mass. Historical Collections, seem to 
 demonstrate, there is no proof of their having received 
 any attentions on the part of the magistrates. Prob- 
 ably they had no public place of worship. Robinson, 
 their pastor, was not admitted as a subject of the 
 University of Leyden until 1615, September 5, after 
 a residence of six or seven years. And they found 
 great difficulty in raising the necessary means to 
 transport themselves to America. Their privations 
 and self-denials in Holland, in some respects were 
 greater than in England. A few days sail would 
 have carried them to their former homes, where they 
 might have been comparatively free from this out- 
 ward poverty. They lived eleven years with that 
 temptation continually before their eyes, yet un- 
 tempted, all the while, to swerve from the strictest 
 
 * The number of Robinson's congregation cannot now be ascertained 
 with entire accuracy. It probably consisted of about 300 — corres- 
 ponding nearly with those who came over in the years 1820, 1821 and 
 1813 2- 1829 and 1830. 
 
 t See appendix. 
 
152 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 devotion to their principle. It would be easy to show 
 how the attractions of their previous homes must 
 have pleaded often with all merely human feeling, 
 as they looked over the sea towards their native 
 shores. They lived in ' the life of God/ who could 
 thus endure and overcome. 
 
 In 1617, they began to consult together concerning 
 another removal to some of the unpeopled countries 
 in America. After many consultations, a part of the 
 Church departed from 'Leyden, on the 21st of July, 
 1620, to embark at Delft haven, for England, whence 
 they were to sail. Mr. Robinson accompanied them 
 to the ship, and at the moment of their departure, fell 
 upon his knees, and in fervent prayer, with many 
 tears, commended them to the divine blessing. As 
 the larger part of the Church still remained, Mr. Rob- 
 inson continued in Holland. Mr. Brewster, the rul- 
 ing elder, embarked with them, and discharged the 
 duties both of elder and of pastor. 
 
 It was the intention of Robinson, soon to join those 
 who first emigrated, and he was, therefore, still con- 
 sidered the pastor of the Plymouth Church. His 
 wish was not gratified. The last time when the early 
 Pilgrims heard his voice, was at the moment of his 
 parting prayer upon the deck at Delfthaven. Still 
 those who went first were to constitute an ' absolute 
 church of themselves,' according to the fundamental 
 principle of Congregationalism ; which considers each 
 congregation of worshiping Christians as a church- 
 body, entire in itself, competent to manage its own 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 153 
 
 affairs, and accountable to no other ecclesiastical tribu- 
 nal. They thus became of course the First Congre- 
 gational Church in America. The death of Robin- 
 son, at Leyden, March 1st, 1625, caused the dissolu- 
 tion of the church and congregation there. Previous- 
 ly to that event, two other companies, one arriving in 
 the Fortune, in 1621, and one in the Ann, in 1623, 
 had already joined the first Pilgrims. In 1629, and 
 in 1630, others of their number arrived, thus trans- 
 ferring the majority of the Leyden Church to Plym- 
 outh. 
 
 It is not proposed to enter into the particular his- 
 tory of the church after its first establishment. Indeed, 
 both the early and the later history of the Church and 
 of the Colony, are in a great degree the same. The 
 ecclesiastical history is also the civil history. The 
 Church constituted the Colony. It may only be 
 necessary to notice briefly the opinions and constitu- 
 tion of the original church, before giving a sketch of 
 subsequent events. 
 
 Questions concerning doctrine, in the strict sense 
 of that term, seldom appear in the early records of 
 the Colony. Undoubtedly the Pilgrims held to the 
 general views of the Protestants of that day. But the 
 controversies that moved them most deeply, concerned, 
 the government and some of the rites of the church. 
 The fundamental principle of Congregationalism, 
 which asserted the entire independence of each as- 
 sembly of worshiping Christians, and the right of each 
 believer to try all doctrines by the Scriptures, as the 
 
154 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 only authoritative standard concerning faith and wor- 
 ship, was the great principle which brought them to the 
 wilderness, and directed their action. They acknowl- 
 edged no spiritual rulers, except the pastors and el- 
 ders chosen by themselves. Every other ecclesiasti- 
 cal authority they renounced and deposed. Although 
 they protested against opinions held by the establish- 
 ed Church in England, still it was not so much with 
 respect to doctrines as spiritual freedom for which 
 they contended. If, in subsequent years, and in their 
 treatment of persons holding a different faith, the Pil- 
 grims appeared to depart from this their great princi- 
 ple of action, and to fall short of the broad and com- 
 prehensive religious toleration of Williams and Penn, 
 or even of Lord Baltimore, much is to be allowed to 
 the inherent difficulties of their position, and some- 
 thing, perhaps, to the spirit of the age in which they 
 lived. When these are fully considered, apparent 
 inconsistencies in their conduct, which have recently 
 been greatly magnified, will be viewed by all tolerant 
 minds of the present day, who see so many errors of 
 the kind still exerting a more powerful sway, with the 
 palliation that true charity would extend to them. 
 
 According to the constitution of the original Church, 
 it had the following officers, chosen by the brethren. 
 1. ' Pastors, or teaching elders, who had the power 
 of overseeing, teaching, administering the sacrament, 
 and ruling too ; and being chiefly to give themselves 
 to studying, teaching, and the spiritual care of the flock, 
 are therefore to be maintained. 2. Mere ruling elders, 
 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 155 
 
 who are to help the pastor in overseeing and ruling; 
 and being also qualified in some degree to teach, 
 they are to teach occasionally, through necessity, or 
 in their pastor's absence or illness; but being not to 
 give themselves to study or teaching, they have no 
 need of maintenance.' 3. * Deacons, who are to take 
 care of the treasure of the church; to distribute for 
 the support of the pastor, the supply of the needy, 
 and the propagation of religion; and to minister at the 
 Lord's table.' The office of ruling elder, however, 
 did not continue for many years. In most churches 
 it ceased in the first half century. In a few, it nomi- 
 nally remained nearly for a century later. 
 
 As we trace the history of the Church from its 
 foundation to the present time, many modifications of 
 its opinions may of course be observed. Its mem- 
 bers first associated themselves together under a very 
 simple and liberal covenant. The first covenant on 
 record is as follows : 
 
 1676. ' The war continuing and also sickness, the 
 church set apart April 19, for fasting and prayer, and 
 also May 30, for the same grounds. The General 
 Court in June, being sensible of the heavy hand of 
 God upon the country, in the continuance of war 
 with the heathen, appointed a day of humiliation to be 
 kept, 22 day of it, and added thereto a solemn motion 
 to all our churches to renew a covenant engagement 
 to God for reformation of all provoking evils. The 
 church attended that day of prayer, and then the 
 elders appointed a church meeting to be on June 29. 
 
156 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 The church then all met. Our church 
 were ever begun and attended with prayer, (the Pas- 
 tor ordinarily beginning and the Elder concluding 
 therewith.) After prayer for God's direction and 
 blessing in so solemn a matter, a church covenant 
 was read, and the church voted that it should be left 
 upon record as that which they did own to be the 
 substance of that covenant which their fathers enter- 
 ed into at the first gathering of the church, which was 
 in these words following : 
 
 ' In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, and in obe- 
 dience to his holy will and divine ordinances, 
 
 We being by the most wise and good Providence 
 of God brought together in this place, and desirous to 
 unite ourselves into one congregation or church under 
 the Lord Jesus Christ our head, that it may be in 
 such sort as becometh all those whom he hath 
 redeemed and sanctified to himself, we do hereby, 
 solemnly and religiously, (as in his most holy pres- 
 ence) avouch the Lord Jehovah the only true God to 
 be our God, and the God of ours, and do promise and 
 bind ourselves to walk in all our ways according to 
 the rule of the Gospel, and in all sincere conformity 
 to his holy ordinances, and in mutual love to, and 
 watchfulness over one another, depending wholly and 
 only upon the Lord our God to enable us by his grace 
 hereunto!'' 
 
 This remained for a long period as the Covenant 
 of the Church. At a later time, when questions of 
 doctrine became in a greater degree the subject of 
 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 157 
 
 thought, the church adopted a more precise statement 
 of its general opinions as articles of faith. But the 
 principle of individual freedom of conscience, asserted 
 by the fathers, at last vindicated itself; and in 1799, 
 upon the death of the Pastor, Rev. Chandler Rob- 
 bins, D. D., the liberal men of the time became the 
 majority, and settled a Pastor in accordance with 
 their own views, by a vote of 23 to 15, on the part of 
 the Church, and of 253 to 15, on the part of the 
 Congregation. The Church is now Unitarian. 
 
 Among the events specially affecting the prosperity 
 of this Church, was the frequent formation of new 
 congregations from its numbers in different periods 
 in its history. Some were formed for the convenience 
 of inhabitants living at a distance, and some on 
 account of differences in religious faith. As these 
 may be more particularly noticed in other pages of 
 this book, they are merely named here in the order 
 of time for convenient reference. 
 . 1. In 1632, a church was formed from the Plymouth 
 Church in Duxbury. This still remains as the First 
 Church, in Duxbury. 
 
 2. In 1633 or 4, or near that time, another was 
 established at Green's harbor in Marshfield. 
 
 3. In 1644, a part of the church removed to East- 
 ham, and established a church there, which is still 
 remaining. 
 
 4. In 1698, another church was established in the 
 territory now constituting the town of Plympton, and 
 which remains as the First Church in that town. 
 
 14 
 
158 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 5. In 1717, the inhabitants of the north part of the 
 town formed themselves into what was then called 
 the Jones' River Parish. This remains as the First 
 Church in Kingston. 
 
 6. In 1731, a precinct was made at Manomet Pond 
 in Plymouth, and on November 8th, 1747, a church 
 was embodied there, which now remains as the 
 Second Congregational Church in Plymouth. 
 
 7. In 1744, a new church was formed from the old, 
 in the village of Plymouth, on account of the dissat- 
 isfaction of many members with the conduct of Mr. 
 Leonard the pastor, in countenancing the itinerant 
 preaching and revival measures of that day. It was 
 called the Third Church in Plymouth. It continued 
 a separate society until 1783, when its members were 
 reunited with the First Church. 
 
 8. In 1801, the minority of the First Church were 
 organized into the Third Church in Plymouth, which 
 still remains under the name of the Church of the 
 Pilgrimage. 
 
 9. In 1809, a Baptist Church was formed in the 
 town. 
 
 10. In 1814, a church was established atEel River, 
 now called Chiltonville, by members from the First 
 and Third churches, for the convenience of inhabi- 
 tants in that section of the town. This is called the 
 Fourth Congregational church in Plymouth. 
 
 11. In 1822, March 11th, a Universalist Society 
 was established by seceders from the First Parish. 
 
 Since that date, other Societies have been estab- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 159 
 
 lished in the town, whose members have gathered 
 from various quarters, and whose names and dates 
 will be elsewhere given. 
 
 MINISTERS OF THE FIRST CHURCH AND 
 
 THOSE WHO OFFICIATED AS ITS 
 
 TEACHERS. 
 
 As has been already stated, it was the intention of 
 John Robinson, pastor of the Leyden Church to emi- 
 grate to Plymouth. He was therefore considered the 
 Pastor of that church until his death. He was born 
 in 1575. The place of his birth is not known. He 
 entered Emanuel College, Cambridge, in 1592. It 
 is not known in what year he received his first 
 degree. He had the degree of A. M. in 1600, and of 
 B. D, in 1607. Previously to his election as the 
 Pastor of the Pilgrim's Church, he had a benefice 
 near Yarmouth, in Norfolk. He died at Leyden, 
 March 1st, 1625, and was buried March 4th, at St. 
 Peter's Church. He was a man of great power, and 
 extraordinary character. It is sufficient to mark his 
 character, to say that he seems worthy to have been 
 the leader and guide of the Pilgrims. The authen- 
 ticity of the farewell discourse to the Pilgrims, so 
 often quoted, has of late been questioned. But, how- 
 ever that may be settled, his remaining letters are 
 abundant evidence of the largeness of his thought^ 
 and the nobleness of his spirit. He was the author 
 
160 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 of many books, both previous to his departure from 
 England, and during his residence at Leyden. The 
 following is the farewell address of Robinson as con- 
 tained in Winslow's brief narration. 
 
 1 We are now ere long to part asunder, and the 
 Lord knoweth whether ever he should live to see our 
 faces again. But whether the Lord had appointed it 
 or not, he charged us before God and his blessed 
 angels, to follow him no further than he followed 
 Christ ; and if God should reveal any thing to us by 
 any other instrument of his, to be as ready to receive 
 it as ever we were to receive any truth by his minis- 
 try ; for he was very confident the Lord had more 
 truth and light yet to break forth out of his holy word. 
 He took occasion also miserably to bewail the state 
 and condition of the Reformed Churches, who were 
 come to a period in religion, and would go no further 
 than the instruments of their Reformation. As, for 
 example, the Lutherans, they could not be drawn to 
 go beyond what Luther saw ; for whatever part of 
 God's will he had further imparted and revealed to 
 Calvin, they will rather die than embrace it. And so 
 also, saith he, you see the Calvinists, they stick where 
 he left them ; a misery much to be lamented ; for 
 though they were precious shining lights in their 
 times, yet God had not revealed his whole will to 
 them; and were they now living, saith he, they would 
 be as ready and willing to embrace further light, as 
 that they had received. Here also he put us in mind 
 of our church covenant, at least that part of it whereby 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 161 
 
 we promise and covenant with God and one with 
 another, to receive whatsoever light or truth shall be 
 made* known to us from his written word ; but withal 
 exhorted us to 'take-heed what we received for truth, 
 and well to examine and compare -it and weigh it 
 with other Scriptures, of truth before we 'received it. 
 For, saith he, it is not possible the Christian world 
 should come so lately but of such thick antichristian 
 darkness, and that fall perfection of knowledge 
 should break forth at once. 
 
 1 Another thing he commended to us, was that we 
 should use all means to avoid and shake off the name 
 of Brownist, being a mere nickname and brand to 
 make religion odious and the professors of it to the 
 Christian world. And to that end, said he, I should 
 be glad if some godly minister would go over with 
 you before my coming; for, said he, there will be no 
 difference between the unconformable ministers and 
 you, when they come to the practice of the ordi- 
 nances out of the kingdom. And so advised us by 
 all means to endeavor to close with the godly party 
 of the kingdom of England, and rather to study 
 union than division, viz how near we might possibly 
 without sin close with them, than in the least mea- 
 sure to affect division or separation from them. And 
 be not loath to take another pastor or teacher, saith 
 he ; for that flock that hath two shepherds is not 
 endangered but secured by it.' 
 
 In 1624, one John Lyford came over to be the 
 pastor of the church, but in consequence of his 
 14* 
 
162 
 
 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 factious conduct was sentenced to be expelled from 
 the Colony. 
 
 No minister was settled over the church until 1629. 
 In the mean time Mr. William Brewster, the ruling 
 elder, discharged the duties of a pastor. He was a 
 man of great piety, and peculiar gifts. He was born 
 in 1564. He passed some time in Cambridge, and 
 served William Davison, Secretary of State under 
 Elizabeth, for some years, with much honor. He 
 was one of the chief sufferers on account of the first 
 attempt for a removal to Holland in 1607. It is sup- 
 posed that he would have been chosen Governor of 
 the Colony had he not been the ruling elder of the 
 church. His own modesty would not permit him to 
 be chosen its pastor. He was the author of several 
 works. He died April 16th, 1644, being about four- 
 score years old. 
 
 1629. In this year, Mr. Ralph Smith was ordained 
 as the first pastor of the church. He was educated 
 at Christ's College in Cambridge, and received his 
 first degree in 1613. He seems to have been a man 
 of piety and integrity; but his ministry was unsatis- 
 factory, and in 1634 or 5 he resigned his office. 
 
 During this period, from 1631, Mr. Roger Williams 
 officiated as minister, for about three years. His 
 opinions however were not acceptable to the people, 
 and at his own request he was dismissed to Salem. 
 
 In 1635-6 Mr. John Norton preached for a few 
 months in Plymouth, but he declined to settle with 
 the church, and went to Ipswich, and subsequently 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 163 
 
 to Boston, where he was greatly distinguished as a 
 divine. 
 
 1636. In this year, Mr. John Rayner, educated at 
 Magdalen College, Cambridge, where he received his 
 first degree, in 1625, was ordained as the second pas- 
 tor of the church. He was a man of great worth, and 
 accomplished gifts. He continued in Plymouth until 
 1654, when, in consequence of the reduced state of 
 the church, the connection was dissolved, to the great 
 regret of the people. He went to Dover, N. H. 
 where he died in 1669. 
 
 Early in his ministry, in 1637, Rev. Charles Chaun- 
 cy became an assistant to Mr. Rayner, and remain- 
 ed for three years. He was greatly urged to continue 
 as associate minister ; but removed to Scituate, and 
 afterwards became President of Harvard College. 
 
 From 1654 to 1667 there was no ordained Pastor. 
 During a part of this period the chief difficulties with 
 the Quakers occurred. From 1664 to 1666 Mr. James 
 Williams and Mr. William Brimsmead officiated tem- 
 porarily as ministers. 
 
 1667. Mr. John Cotton Jr. son of Rev. John Cot- 
 ton of Boston, commenced his ministerial services in 
 1667, and on June 30th 1669, he was settled as the 
 third ordained minister of the church. Mr. Cotton 
 continued in that office for 30 years, when in conse- 
 quence of internal divisions in the church he resigned. 
 After remaining in Plymouth a short time he went to 
 Charleston, S. C. to be settled in the ministry there. 
 He died at Charleston, Sept. 18th, 1699. He was 
 
164 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 born March 15th, 1639, 40, and graduated at Cam- 
 bridge in 1657. 
 
 1697. Immediately after the resignation of Mr. 
 Cotton, the church invited Mr. Ephraim Little, a 
 graduate of Cambridge, in 1695, to officiate as its 
 pastor. He was ordained Oct. 4th, 1699, and re- 
 mained until his death, at the age of 47 years, Nov. 
 23, 1723. He was a man of useful and exemplary 
 life, and was the first minister of the church that was 
 buried in the town. 
 
 1724. Mr. Nathaniel Leonard, a graduate of Cam- 
 bridge, In 1719, was ordained as the pastor of the 
 church, July 29th. During his ministry Mr. White- 
 field visited Plymouth ; and, in consequence of Mr. 
 Leonard's favoring of what were called ' new light 
 measures,' a division took place in the church. He 
 remained until 1757, when, in consequence of bodily 
 infirmities, he asked a dismission, and removed to 
 Norton. 
 
 1760. After having heard many candidates, Jan. 
 30th, 1760, Rev. Chandler Bobbins was ordained as 
 minister of the church. He was born at Branford, Con- 
 necticut, Aug. 24th, 1738, and graduated at Yale Col- 
 lege in 1756. His ministry continued until his death, 
 June 30th, 1799, at the age of 61 years. He was a 
 distinguished minister of his time. He received the 
 degree of D. D. from Dartmouth College, in 1792, 
 and from the University of Edinburgh, in 1793. 
 
 1800. Jan. 1st, 1800, Mr. James Kendall, a native 
 of Sterling, Mass. and a graduate of Cambridge in 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 165 
 
 1796, was ordained. Dr. Kendall received the degree 
 of D. D. at Cambridge, in 1825, and still continues 
 as the senior minister of the church. 
 
 1838. Jan. 3d, 1838, George W. Briggs, a native 
 of Little Compton, R. I. and a graduate at Brown 
 University, was installed as associate minister. 
 
 RULING ELDERS OF THE FIRST CHURCH 
 OF PLYMOUTH. 
 
 William Brewster from the organization of the 
 church in England to his death in 1644, aged 84. 
 
 1647. Thomas Cushman — died in 1691, aged 84. 
 
 1699. Thomas Faunce " " 1645, " 99. 
 
 After this period the office of Elder was discon- 
 tinued. 
 
 DEACONS OF THE FIRST CHURCH IN 
 PLYMOUTH. 
 
 John Carver, ) chosen previous to the embar- 
 
 Sanmel Fuller, ) cation from Leyden in 1620. 
 
 Richard Marsterson, ) o <=> Robert Finney, ) 
 
 7 i o <*> ? 1 667 
 
 Thomas Blossom, ) i^Ephraim Morton, J 
 
 John Doane, ] Thomas Faunce, 1686. 
 
 William Paddy, George Morton, ] 
 
 John Cook, f 1634 ' Nathaniel Wood, } 1694. 
 
 John Durham, Thomas Clark, 
 
166 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 John Foster, ) Ephraim Spooner, 1784, 
 
 John At wood, ) ' Jonathan Diman, 1784. 
 
 Haviland Torrey, j John Bishop, 1797. 
 
 Thomas Clark, ) Lemuel Drew, 1812. 
 
 Thomas Foster, ^ . William P. Ripley, 1818. 
 
 Joseph Bartlett, j> 1745. Eosseton Cotton, 1822. 
 John Torrey, j * Ichabod Morton, 1831. 
 
 William Crombie, 1776. 
 
 UNION OF THE COLONIES OF PLYMOUTH 
 AND MASSACHUSETTS. 
 
 This event occurred in the year 1692. The Gov- 
 ernment of Plymouth Colony had previously endea- 
 vored to procure a separate Charter, and in 1790 had 
 appointed Sir Henry As hurt, of England, Reverend 
 Increase Mather, of Boston, and Reverend Ichabod 
 Wiswell, of Duxbury, as agents to procure the same 
 from William and Mary, who succeeded the turbulent 
 and tyrannical reign of James the 2d. The efforts of 
 Mr. W T iswell to secure a charter, were earnest and 
 unremitting, but proved unavailing. Had sufficient 
 pecuniary means existed at the time, it seems proba- 
 ble that the object in view would have been attained. 
 A charter was obtained for Massachusetts, which was 
 signed October 7th, 1691, and Plymouth Colony was 
 included, after a separate existence of seventy-one 
 years. 
 
 * Resigned. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 167 
 
 The last court of Election was held at Plymouth 
 in June, and the deputies from Plymouth were John 
 Bradford and Isaac Cushman. Mr. Hinkley was 
 re-elected governor, and William Bradford deputy 
 governor. 
 
 In 1G92, Sir William Phips arrived at Boston, with 
 the new charter on the 14th of May. He was 
 commissioned governor in chief, in their majesty's 
 name, William and Mary, and summoned a court to 
 assemble on the 8th of June. The province of 
 Massachusetts Bay proceeded to organize under the 
 new charter, and the union of the two Colonies was 
 soon perfected. 
 
 By the new Charter, Plymouth was entitled to four 
 of the 28 Counselors, and the names of Thomas 
 Hinkley, William Bradford, John Walley, and Bar- 
 nabas Lothrop, were designated for that purpose. 
 The qualifications of electors according to the war- 
 rant for election, was ' a freehold of 40 shillings per 
 annum, or other property of the value of 40 pounds 
 sterling.' The old general court, however, met at 
 Plymouth on the first Tuesday of July for the last 
 time. They appointed the last Wednesday of 
 August to be kept as a day of fasting and humilia- 
 tion. Some distinguished individuals were dissatis- 
 fied with the union of the Colonies. The following 
 remarks of Judge Davis, in his valuable appendix to 
 the New England Memorial, page 477, are here sub- 
 joined, to which work the reader is referred for a 
 more extended account of proceedings relative to the 
 
1C8 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 charter. ' It is to the honor of Massachusetts, that none 
 have had reason to regret a comprehension within 
 her jurisdiction, and that her history, in every stage 
 of her progress, exhibits multiplied instances of mag- 
 nanimity, public spirit, and regard to the best inter- 
 ests of mau.' 
 
 The first General Court, under the New Charter, 
 June 8th, passed an act, declaring that all the laws 
 of the Colony of Massachusetts Bay, and the Colony 
 of New Plymouth, not being repugnant to the laws 
 of England, nor inconsistent with the charter, should 
 remain in force in the respective colonies until the 
 10th of November, 1692, excepting in cases where 
 other provision should be made by law. 
 
 Mr. Baylies observes in his valuable Memoir of 
 Plymouth Colony, that, ' with respect to political 
 objects, previous to the year 163G, the Plymouth Col- 
 ony may be considered to have been but a voluntary 
 association, ruled by the majority and nr:t by fixed 
 laws. It does not appear except in a few instances, 
 that they had availed themselves of their delegated 
 powers under their patent to enact laws until 1633.' 
 
 A few laws only, and such as were of the most 
 urgent necessity were then established, such as de- 
 claring every one within the jurisdiction liable to the 
 performance of military duty; 'giving the jurisdiction of 
 the probate of wills, and of granting adminstrations to 
 the governor and assistants ;' regulating fishing and 
 fowling ; authorizing constables and persons trespass- 
 ed upon to impound cattle taken in damage peasant. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 169 
 
 Penalties were inflicted on such as fired the woods. 
 Lands of persons deceased were made liable for 
 their debts in case of the insufficiency of personal 
 property.' 
 
 Besides these laws, provision was made for pro- 
 tecting the forests and preventing waste, for guarding 
 against fire, by prohibiting the use of thatch for cov- 
 ering the roofs of their houses, a resort to which was 
 necessary at the first settlement * 
 
 On the 15th of November, 1836, at a court of 
 associates, the following declaration was ordered : 
 ' We the Associates of New Plymouth, coming hither 
 as free born subjects of the State of England, and 
 endowed with all and singular, the privileges be- 
 longing to such, being assembled, do ordain that 
 no act, imposition, law, or ordinance be made or 
 imposed upon* us at the present or to come, but such 
 as shall be made and imposed by consent of the body 
 of the associates, or their representatives legally 
 assembled, which is according to the liberties of the 
 State of England.' Respecting this order, Mr. Bay- 
 lies observes, ' This is the first declaration of rights, 
 if not of independence, and the laws which followed 
 
 * In the year 1623, the following appears on the first book of Old 
 Colony records page 4, in the hand writing of Gov. Bradford. 
 
 ' It was ordained 17th day of desemb. anno. 1623, by the court then 
 held ; that all crimynall facts ; and also all matters of trespasses ; and 
 debts between man and man should be tried, by the verdict of twelve 
 honest men, to be impaneled by authority, in form of a jurie upon their 
 oathes.' 
 
 15 
 
170 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 became absent ely necessary for the preservation of 
 government.' It was enacted that on the first Tues- 
 day of June, a governor and seven assistants should 
 be chosen, to ' rule and govern the plantation wiihin 
 the limits of this corporation, and the election was 
 restricted to the freemen, twenty-one years of age, of 
 sober and peaceable conversation, orthodox in the 
 fundamentals of religion, having a valuable estate of 
 twenty pounds. All these qualifications were requir- 
 ed, before any persons could be admitted to the oath 
 prescribed to be taken by freemen. In 1G20 up to 
 1624, there was but one assistant to the governor, at 
 which latter period the number was increased to five, 
 and in 1832 to seven. For further information re- 
 specting the powers and duties of the government, 
 the reader is referred to the Memoir of Plymouth Col- 
 ony, to which allusion has already been made. 
 
 In 1638 the power which was in the whole body of 
 freemen was transferred to committees or deputies 
 from the several towns in the Colony, and they as- 
 sembled for the first time in Plymouth, June, 1639. 
 The deputies to this assembly from the town of 
 Plymouth were William Paddy, Manassah Kempton, 
 Jr., John Cook, Jr., and John Dunham. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 171 
 
 GOVERNORS OF THE COLONY OF PLYM- 
 OUTH, FROM 1620 to 1692. 
 
 Nov. 11, 1620, John Carver, four months and 24 
 days. 
 
 William Bradford from 1621 to 1632 — 1635—1637 
 1639 to 1643—1645 to 1656, 31 years in all. 
 
 Edward Winslow, 1633, 1636, 1644. 
 
 Thomas Prince, 1634 ) 1638, 1657 to 1672. 
 
 Josiah Winslow from 1673 to 1680. 
 
 Thomas Hinkley— 1681 to 1692. 
 
 There was no Lieutenant Governor till 1680. Be- 
 fore that period, the governor, when obliged to be 
 absent, appointed one pro tempore. Their names 
 were Thomas Hinkley, 1680, James Cudworth, 1681, 
 Major William Bradford, 1682 to 1686, and 1689 to 
 1691. 
 
 There was no Secretary previous to 1636; and the 
 records appear to have been previously kept by the 
 respective Governors. The hand writing of Gov. 
 Bradford is very legible, and resembles a modern 
 hand ; and the same may be said of Nathaniel 
 Sowther or Souther. 
 
 The first Secretary was Nathaniel Souther, in 
 1636; the second, Nathaniel Morton, from 1645 to 
 1685; the third, Nathaniel Thomas, 1686; the fourth 
 and last, Samuel Sprague, who, except the interrup- 
 tion by Andros, continued till the union of the 
 colonies. 
 
172 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 The Treasurers were William Paddy, in 1636. 
 Thomas Prince, in 1637. Timothy Hatherly, in 1639. 
 Jonathan Atvvood, in 1641. Miles Standish, 1644 to 
 1649. John Alden, 3 years. Constant Southworth, 
 1662 to 1678. Afterwards William Bradford. 
 
 There was no Sheriff till 1685. Writs were 
 originally served by an officer styled the Messenger. 
 In 1645 he was styled Marshal, and had the power 
 of appointing deputies. Constables, however, were 
 chosen in each town, with the power to execute 
 precepts, and collect rates. Upon the division into 
 Counties in 1685, Sheriffs were appointed. 
 
 A Coroner was appointed at the beginning of the 
 Colony, but the office was soon abolished, and the 
 duty of taking inquisitions devolved upon the Con- 
 stables. 
 
 There was no distinct office of Register of deeds, 
 or of wills and inventories, but those duties were per- 
 formed by the Secretary of the Colony. 
 
 In 16S5 the Colony was divided into three Coun- 
 ties, namely, Plymouth, Barnstable, and Bristol. 
 
 PLYMOUTH COLONY RECORDS. 
 
 In the year 1818, three Commissioners, viz., James 
 Freeman, Samuel Davis and Benjamin R. Nichols, 
 'were appointed by the Legislature of the State, and 
 were authorized to cause the records to be transcrib- 
 ed, and afterwards to return the originals to the Reg- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 173 
 
 ister of Deeds' Office in Plymouth, and to deposit the 
 copies in the Office of the Secretary of the Common- 
 wealth. Full Indexes were made to them, and the 
 volumes were interleaved and new bound. The 
 original charter of the Colony being considerably 
 defaced, it was repaired and placed in a port folio, 
 with the seal of the Plymouth Company in England 
 annexed to it. The seal is about four inches in 
 diameter. It was much broken, but the parts were 
 carefully cemented and secured together, and inclosed 
 in a case, so that the original impression may be 
 seen. 
 
 The records are now arranged chronologically, and 
 in such a manner that the legislative proceedings or 
 court orders form six separate volumes ; the wills and 
 inventories four; deeds six; laws one ; acts of Com- 
 missioners of United Colonies two. There is also 
 an imperfect volume of the records of these Com- 
 missioners, being, as is supposed, their original min- 
 utes. There is also one volume of Indian deeds, 
 bound up with the Treasurer's accounts, and lists 
 of freemen, and one volume of actions, marriages, 
 births, and deaths, making in the whole twenty-two 
 volumes of original records. 
 
 The copies made from the above, (deposited in the 
 Office of the Secretary of State,) form eleven folio 
 volumes, and are indexed like the originals. The 
 records of the Commissioners of the Unied Colonies 
 were formerly transcribed and published by Ebenezer 
 Hazard, Esq. They compose nearly the whole of 
 15* 
 
174 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 his second volume. This volume was compared by- 
 Mr. Nichols with the original records, and corrected 
 by him, and the volume so corrected, is deposited 
 widi the copies above mentioned in the Office of the 
 Secretary of the Commonwealth. They are kept in 
 a separate case from the other records of the Com- 
 monwealth. 
 
 All the laws and legislative proceedings are copied, 
 with such parts of the other records as were thought 
 to be useful. The parts not copied are most of the 
 private deeds, wills, and inventories. Care was taken 
 to preserve in the copies the original paging and 
 orthography. 
 
 The following statement will give a general view 
 of the contents of the records — 
 
 There is nothing recorded in 1620, except a plan of 
 the lots laid out at Plymouth.* 
 
 The next records are the allotments of land in 
 1623, t to the passengers in the Mayflower, Fortune, 
 and Ann, and a law establishing the trial by jury. 
 
 In 1627 there was a division of the cattle among 
 the inhabitants. $ 
 
 There are but few other records previous to 1632. 
 
 In that year the General Court of Plymouth began 
 to keep a regular journal of their proceedings, which 
 they continued to the close of the colony, excepting 
 the years 1687 and 1688, during the government of 
 Sir Edmund Andros. 
 
 * See page 123. f See page 124. J See page 134. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 175 
 
 In 1636, a code oflaws was made with a preamble 
 containing an account of the settlement of the Colo- 
 ny. Other laws were added at subsequent periods, 
 and when any of the former were altered or repealed, 
 this was done by making erasures and interlineations, 
 instead of passing original acts. In the copy now 
 made all these erasures and interlineations are no- 
 ticed. In 1658 the laws were revised and entered in 
 another book. Most of them were transcribed from 
 the former code, and the dates when they were first 
 enacted inserted in the margin. Other laws were 
 inserted afterward till 1664, when they appear to 
 have been again revised. A third book of laws w-as 
 then made, similar to the former. This book contains 
 all the laws passed from that time till 1682. 
 
 The laws of the colony thus existed in three sep- 
 arate parts. They are now bound together and 
 indexed, and a complete copy made of them. 
 
 There was another code made in 1671, and printed. 
 The manuscript of this code no longer exists. But 
 one of the printed copies may be found in the library 
 of the Historical Society, bound up with the laws 
 of Massachusetts and Connecticut. This code is 
 very different from the former. It contains some 
 new laws, and omits most of those which before 
 existed. 
 
 From these records a knowledge may be obtained 
 of all the principal men who lived* in the Colony, of 
 the Governors, Assistants, Deputies, or Representa- 
 tives, Selectmen of towns, and other civil officers, 
 
176 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 military officers and freemen. There are lists of all 
 the freemen in the Colony at several periods, also 
 records of marriages, births, and deaths. The latter 
 records, however, are imperfect. 
 
 Marriages were never solemnized by ministers, 
 but magistrates were especially appointed for that 
 service. * 
 
 FOREFATHERS ROCK. 
 
 The Forefather's Rock, so attractive to the curi- 
 osity of visitors to the Old Colony, excepting that 
 part of it which is now enclosed within the railing in 
 front of Pilgrim Hall, retains the same position it 
 occupied two hundred and twenty-six years ago, 
 when the founders of New England first landed on 
 our shores, and introduced the arts of civilization, the 
 institutions of religion, civil government and educa- 
 tion, upon the basis of just and equal rights, which 
 from that memorable day to the present time, have 
 secured the general good of the whole community, to 
 an extent probably unexampled in any equal period 
 of human experience. This rock, as described in the 
 Geology of Plymouth, is an extremely hard variety of 
 scienitic granite, of a dark grey color. The mica is 
 in very small quantity, in fine black particles, and the 
 rock, by its rounded edges, bears evidence of its 
 
 *Tlie foregoing account is mostly extracted from the Mass. His. 
 Collection, vol. 2, 3d series. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 177 
 
 rolled character. This rock is now in two pieces, each 
 piece about four feet through. That part now at the 
 water's side is about six and a half feet in diameter. 
 It is situated on the south side of the store now occu- 
 pied by Phineas Wells at the head of Hedge's wharf, 
 a few feet only from the same. 
 
 The stranger frequently inquires, is this the veri- 
 table rock which first received the Pilgrims? Happily 
 we are able to answer his question with perfect con- 
 fidence ; volumes of history could not more satisfac- 
 torily attest the truth of its identity, than the vener- 
 able and unquestionable tradition on which it rests. 
 
 Besides the general and undisputed tradition which 
 designates it as that on which the fathers landed, it 
 was ascertained to be the same on an interesting 
 occasion in the life of Elder Thomas Faunce, the last 
 ruling elder in the first church of Plymouth, who was 
 born in the year 1646, and died in the year 1745, at 
 the advanced age of ninety-nine years. In the year 
 1741, the elder upon learning that a wharf was about 
 to be built near, or over the rock, which up to that 
 period had kept its undisturbed vigils at the water's 
 edge, and fearing that the march of improvement 
 might subject it to injury, expressed much uneasiness. 
 Though residing three miles from the village of 
 Plymouth, and then in declining health, he left home, 
 and in the presence of many citizens, pointed out 
 the rock we have described as being that on which 
 the Pilgrims with whom he was cotemporan 
 well acquainted, had uniformly declared to *\Sg 
 
178 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 same on which they landed in 1620. Upon this 
 Occasion this venerable and excellent man took a 
 final leave of this cherished memorial of the fathers. 
 The circumstances above related, were frequently 
 mentioned by the late Hon. Ephraim Spooner de- 
 ceased, who was present upon the occasion connect- 
 ed with Elder Faunce. He was deacon of the 
 Church of Plymouth forty-one years, and fifty-two 
 years town clerk, and died March, 1818, aged eighty- 
 three years. The same information was communi- 
 cated by Mrs. Joanna White, widow of Gideon 
 White, deceased, who was intimately acquainted in 
 the family of Elder Faunce. She died in 1810, aged 
 ninety-five years. And the same account has been 
 transmitted by other aged persons, now deceased, 
 within the recollection of many now living. 
 
 On the anniversary celebration of the landing of 
 the fathers in 1817, the late Rev. Horace Holly, 
 deceased, delivered the customary address, and upon 
 the morning of that day had some hours conversation 
 with deacon Spooner, above mentioned, in relation to 
 early times, and among other interesting reminiscen- 
 ces learnt from him the incidents above narrated. 
 Deacon Spooner had for many years been accustomed 
 to read the hymn ' Hail Pilgrims,' line by line 
 according to an old practice of the church, in primi- 
 tive times, and upon this occasion officiated for the 
 last time. Mr. Holly inspired by his theme and the 
 interview, in the course of his eloquent address, hap- 
 pily observed, ■ our venerable friend knew and con- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 179 
 
 versed with Elder Faunce, who personally knew the 
 first settlers, so Polycarp conversed witli St. John the 
 beloved disciple of our Savior.' 
 
 In the year 1774, some ardent whigs, to render 
 available the patriotic associations connected with 
 the rock, undertook its removal to the town square, 
 with the intention to place over it a liberty pole, as 
 an excitement to vigorous efforts in the approaching 
 revolutionary struggle, and to quicken the zeal of 
 such persons as hesitated to join the standard of 
 independence. In this attempt at removal, the rock 
 split asunder, which excited, as tradition avers, great 
 surprise among the citizens present, and by some was 
 construed into a favorable omen, indicating the final 
 separation of the colonies from the mother country. 
 This unexpected accident led to some hesitation 
 among the excited group assembled, and the conclu- 
 sion was to lower the under part of the rock into its 
 original bed, from which it had been elevated, and the 
 other part was taken by twenty yoke of oxen to the 
 public square, and honored with the far-famed liberty 
 pole, upon which an appropriate effusion of some 
 patriotic son of liberty was placed, to rouse the 
 passing citizen to greater ardor in the cause of his 
 country. 
 
 These circumstances, in connection with the in- 
 creasing curiosity of visitors, each of whom sought a 
 small fragment, if no more, have sensibly diminished 
 the size of the rock, rendering it necessary to prevent 
 such depredations in future, lest the 'first stepping 
 
180 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 stone to those who should come after/ might at last 
 fail of a ' local habitation and a name.' These consid- 
 erations, it is hoped, may in some degree relieve the 
 disappointment occasionally expressed by strangers, 
 on first viewing this rock. It should further be recol- 
 lected that a mammoth rock of granite would have 
 been inconvenient for the purpose of landing — partic- 
 ularly to the women and children who shared in the 
 glorious event. It is gratifying to announce, that a 
 public Town Meeting was recently held, at which it 
 was voted to convey sufficient land to certain individ- 
 uals, for the purpose of removing the store of Mr. 
 Hedge, northward and eastward, leaving room to erect 
 a suitable monument near the Rock, and to enclose 
 the same with an iron railing, reserving sufficient 
 land for an unincumbered walk round it. It has long 
 been a subject of regret, that this memorial of the 
 Landing has remained in its present situation, and 
 there can be no doubt, that New England will 
 cheerfully bestow the moderate sum required for an 
 appropriate monument. On the fourth of July, 1834, 
 that part of the rock which had been taken to the 
 town square, was removed and placed in front of 
 Pilgrim Hall, enclosed within an iron railing prepared 
 for its reception, on which is inscribed the names of 
 the forty-one individuals who subscribed the Com- 
 pact on board the Mayflower, at Cape Cod harbor, 
 Nov. 11, 1620. 
 
 The honor of first stepping upon the Rock is 
 claimed by the descendants of Mary Chilton in her 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 181 
 
 behalf, and also by those of John Alclen in his favor 
 — resting upon tradition in both families. It is 
 evident that neither of them had the honor of first 
 landing upon it. This occurred on the 11th of Nov. 
 1620, old style, corresponding to Dec. 21st new style, 
 when the shallop of the Mayflower having left on 
 the 6th of December the harbor of Cape Cod, coast- 
 ed along the shore and was finally driven by storm 
 into Plymouth and found shelter at Clark's Island, 
 She had then on board ten of the pilgrims, besides 
 eighteen seamen-, and their names are all mentioned 
 in history, but the name of John Alden is not named 
 as one of them. The Mayflower arrived and an- 
 chored about one and a half miles from the town, 
 between Clark's Island and beach point. When the 
 passengers went on shore, in the ship's boat, it is not 
 improbable that some rivalship occurred between 
 Mary Chilton and John Alden as to which should 
 first land on the Rock: and the young gallant doubt- 
 less yielded his claim to the lady — as might be 
 expected of the modest youth, who afterwards became 
 the favored choice of Priscilla Mullins.* The conclu- 
 sion, therefore, of the late Samuel Davis, Esq., may 
 
 * Tradition states, that Captain Standish, after the death of his 
 wife, proposed a matrimonial alliance with Miss Mullins, the daughter 
 of William Mullins, and that John Alden was engaged as the messen- 
 ger to announce his wishes. But the lady, it seems, not so much 
 enamored with the military renown of Standish as by the engaging 
 address of the youthful advocate, dexterously hinted her opinion to 
 that effect, by which course an end was put to all hope on the part of 
 the distinguished military leader of the pilgrim*. 
 16 
 
182 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 be safely adopted, when he says, ' We are disposed 
 however to generalize the anecdote. The first 
 generation doubtless knew who came on shore in 
 the first boats; the second generation related it with 
 less identity; the fourth with still less : like the stone 
 thrown on the calm lake, the circles well defined at 
 first, become fainter as they recede. For the purpose 
 of the arts however, a female figure, typical of faith, 
 hope and charity, is well adapted.' 
 
 The late Dr. Dwight, president of Yale College, 
 who visited Plymouth in the year 1800, expresses 
 himself respecting the Hock in the following manner: 
 1 No New Englander who is willing to indulge his 
 native feelings, can stand upon the Rock, where our 
 ancestors set the first foot after their arrival on the 
 American shore, without experiencing emotions very 
 different from those which are excited by any com- 
 mon object of the same nature. No New Englander 
 could be willing to have that Rock buried and forgot- 
 ten. Let him reason as much, as coldly, and ingeni- 
 ously as he pleases, he will still regard that spot with 
 emotions wholly different from those excited by other 
 places of equal or greater importance.' 
 
 * ' This Rock has become an object of veneration in 
 the United States. I have seen bits of it carefully 
 preserved in several towns of the Union. Does not 
 this sufficiently show that all human power and 
 greatness is in the soul of man? Here is a stone 
 
 * De Tocqueville's Work on America. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 183 
 
 which the feet of a few outcasts pressed for an in- 
 stant; and the stone becomes famous; it is treasured 
 by a great nation ; its very dust is shared as a relic. 
 And what has become of the gateways of a thousand 
 palaces? Who cares for them?' 
 
 #< Beneath us is the Rock, on which New England 
 received the feet of the Pilgrims. We seem even to 
 behold them, as they struggle with the elements, and 
 with toilsome efforts gain the shore. We listen to 
 the chiefs in council ; we see the unexampled exhi- 
 bition of female fortitude and resignation ; we hear 
 the whisperings of youthful impatience, and we see, 
 what a painter of our own has also represented by 
 his pencil, chilled and shivering childhood, house- 
 less but for a mother's arms, couchless, but for a 
 mother's breast, till our own blood almost freezes. 
 The mild dignity of Carver and of Bradford ; the 
 decisive and soldier-like air of Standish ; the devout 
 Brewster; the enterprising Allerton ; the general 
 firmness and thoughtfulness of the whole band; 
 their conscious joy for dangers escaped ; their deep 
 solicitude about dangers to come; their trust in 
 heaven ; their high religious faith, full of confidence 
 and anticipation: — all these seem to belong to this 
 place and to be present upon this occasion, to fill us 
 with reverence and admiration.' 
 
 * Webster's Centennial Address, Dec. 22, 1820. 
 
184 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 THE SHIP MAYFLOWER. 
 
 Nobly the Mayflower bows, 
 While the dark wave she ploughs, 
 
 On 1o the west ; 
 Till from the tempest's shock, 
 Proudly she lands her flock, 
 Where on old Plymouth- Rock 
 
 Freedom found rest. 
 
 The progress of time, and the course of human 
 events, have contributed to invest the fortunes of the 
 Mayflower with the deepest interest, and to confer 
 upon this once peaceful herald of freedom to our 
 shores, a celebrity achieved perhaps, by no other 
 vessel known to the annals of maratime enterprise. 
 
 Her first voyage across the Atlantic was com- 
 menced under circumstances of obscurity hardly 
 attracting the curiosity of the passing world, by men 
 who had long endured the merciless inflictions of a 
 persecuting age, and who might well have deemed it 
 a privilege to escape the notoriety which would have 
 exposed them to the contempt of those who dis- 
 pensed the thunders of hierarchal power. High and 
 holy as were their aspirations after righteousness, 
 truth, and freedom, the most vivid imagination among 
 them, could not even have dreamt of the conse- 
 quences involved in the vast work which they were 
 about commencing in the world's reformation. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 185 
 
 They little thought how pure a light, 
 With years, should gather round that day; 
 How love should keep their memories bright, 
 How wide a realm their sons should sway. 
 
 But results have followed in the wake of the 
 Mayflower, auspiciously affecting the condition of 
 millions; results, which if the past afford any just 
 indications of the future, present but faint glimpses 
 only of what are destined to appear in ages to come. 
 
 The Mayflower, of 180 tons burthen, Capt. Jones, 
 was chartered by the merchant adventurers, of Lon- 
 don, to transport a part of the Ley den Church to 
 America — the Speedwell having been procured in 
 Holland, for the same purpose. The terms and 
 arrangements prior to her leaving England, and the 
 incidents connected with her eventful voyage, will 
 be found in detail in the 5th Chapter of this work, 
 page 39. She sailed from Southampton, August 5th, 
 1620 ; discovered Cape Cod on the 9th, and anchored 
 there on the eleventh of November, having been 
 ninety-eight days on the voyage. During the pas- 
 sage, a child was born named Oceanus, the son of 
 Stephen Hopkins ; and the only death was on the 
 6th of November, that of William Button, a youth, 
 and servant of Dr. Samuel Fuller. On the 7th of 
 December, Dorothy, the wife of Governor William 
 Bradford, fell overboard and was drowned. On the 
 fourth of December, Edward Thompson, the servant 
 of William White, died. About the last of November, 
 Peregrine, the son of William White was born. The 
 16* 
 
186 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Mayflower, after remaining thirty-four days, left Cape 
 Cod harbor on the loth of December, and anchored 
 Saturday the lGth, in Plymouth harbor, about one 
 and a half miles from town, between Clark's Island 
 and beach point. Here she remained during the 
 winter, and afforded partial accommodations to the 
 settlers, while preparing their houses on shore. In 
 the spring, as Secretary Morton observes, ' They now 
 began to hasten the ship away, which tarried so long 
 by reason of the necessity and danger that lay on 
 them, because so many died, both of themselves and 
 the ship's company likewise, by which they became 
 so few as the master durst not put to sea until those 
 that lived recovered of their sickness, and the winter 
 was over.' She sailed on the 5th of April, 1621, 
 having been in Plymouth harbor one hundred and 
 ten days, and arrived at London on the 6th of May, a 
 short passage compared with the previous one, so 
 full of delays, accidents, and dangers. 
 
 It was on board this ship, that the celebrated com- 
 pact was signed by forty-one individuals. The last 
 survivors of the Mayflower who signed the compact, 
 were John Howland, who died in 1672, aged eighty 
 years, and John Alden, who died 1686, aged 89. 
 Mary, the daughter of Isaac Allerton, and the wife of 
 Elder Thomas Cushman, the son of Robert Cush- 
 man, died in 1699 aged 90 and was the last of the 
 one hundred passengers who arrived at Cape Cod 
 harbor. 
 
 Mr. Savage observes, in a note to his invaluable 
 edition of Winthrop's History of New England, ' that 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 187 
 
 the principal vessels which brought our fathers hither, 
 are remembered by their descendants with no small 
 degree of affection. The Mayflower had been a 
 name of renown, without forming a part of this fleet* 
 because in her came the devoted planters of Plym- 
 outh, and she had also brought in the year preceding 
 this, some of Higinson's companions to Salem.' It 
 thus appears that Plymouth, Salem, and Boston, have 
 a direct and peculiar interest in all that pertains to 
 the successful history and fortunes of this vessel, 
 which aided in transferring so many individuals from 
 England to America. 
 
 Thomas Carlyle observes in his recent work, 
 1 Look now at American Saxondom, and at that little 
 fact of the sailing of the Mayflower, two hundred 
 years ago. It was properly the beginning of America. 
 There were straggling settlers in America before ; 
 some material as of a body was there ; but the soul 
 of it was this. These poor men, driven out of their 
 own country, and not able to live in Holland, deter- 
 mined on settling in the new world. Black untamed 
 forests are there, and wild savage creatures ; but not 
 so cruel as a star chamber hangman. They clubbed 
 their small means together, hired a ship, the little 
 ship Mayflower, and made ready to set sail. Hah ! 
 These men, I think, had a work. The weak thing, 
 weaker than a child, becomes strong, if it be a true 
 thing. Puritanism was only despicable, laughable, 
 then ; but no body can manage to laugh at it now. 
 
 * The fleet that brought over Gov. Winthrop and his colony. 
 
188 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 It is one of the strongest things under the sun at 
 present.' 
 
 With the following inimitable description of the 
 Mayflower, on approaching the New England coast, 
 we close this chapter. 
 
 # ' Methinks I see it now, that one solitary, adven- 
 turous vessel, the Mayflower of a forlorn hope, 
 freighted with the prospects of a future state, and 
 bound across the unknown sea. I behold it pursuing, 
 with a thousand misgivings, the uncertain, the 
 tedious voyage. Suns rise and set, and weeks and 
 months pass, and winter surprises them on the deep, 
 but brings them not the sight of the wished for 
 shore. I see them now scantily supplied with pro- 
 visions, crowded almost to suffocation in their illstored 
 prison, delayed by calms, pursuing a circuitous 
 route; — and now driven in fury before the raging- 
 tempest, on the high and giddy waves. The awful 
 voice of the storm howls through the rigging. The 
 laboring masts seem straining from their base ; — 
 the dismal sound of the pumps is heard; — the ship 
 leaps, as it were, madly, from billow to billow; — the 
 ocean breaks, and settles with engulphing floods 
 over the floating deck, and beats with deadening, 
 shivering weight, against the staggered vessel. I 
 see them, escaped from these perils, pursuing their 
 all but desperate undertaking, and landed at last, 
 after a five months passage, on the ice clad rocks of 
 Plymouth, — weak and weary from the voyage, — 
 poorly armed, scantily provisioned, depending on the 
 
 * Edward Everett. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 189 
 
 charity of (heir ship-master for a draught of beer on 
 board, drinking nothing but water on shore, — with- 
 out shelter, — without means, — surrounded by hos- 
 tile tribes. Shut now the volume of history, and tell 
 me, on any principle of human probability, whta 
 shall be the fate of this handful of adventurers* 
 Tell me, man of military science, in how many 
 months were they all swept off by the thirty savage 
 tribes, enumerated within the early limits of New 
 England? Tell me, politician, how long did this 
 shadow of a colony, on which your conventions and 
 treaties had not smiled, languish on the distant 
 coast? Student of history, compare for me the 
 baffled projects, the deserted settlements, the aban- 
 doned adventures of other times, and find the parallel 
 of this. Was it the winter's storm, beating upon the 
 houseless heads of women and children ; was it hard 
 labor and spare meals; was it disease; was it the 
 tomahawk ; was it the deep malady of a blighted 
 hope, a ruined enterprise, and a broken heart, aching 
 in its last moments, at the recollection of the loved 
 and left, beyond the sea ; was it some, or all of these 
 united, that hurried this forsaken company to their 
 melancholy fate? And is it possible that neither of 
 these causes, that not all combined, were able to 
 blast this bud of hope ? Is it possible, that from a 
 beginning so feeble, so frail, so worthy, not so much 
 of admiration as of pity, there has gone forth a pro- 
 gress so steady, a growth so wonderful, an expansion 
 so ample, a reality so important, a promise, yet to be 
 fulfilled, so glorious?' 
 
190 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 LEYDEN STREET and TOWN SQUARE. 
 
 This street received its present name in the year 
 1823, in grateful remembrance of the hospitality and 
 kindness, shown to the pilgrims during their residence 
 of eleven years in the city of Leyden. 
 
 It was originally named First street, and afterwards 
 is in the records, sometimes called Great, and Broad 
 street. 
 
 Among the principal considerations which deter- 
 mined the fathers of New England, to settle in 
 Plymouth, was its favorable position for defence 
 against the aborigines, and the excellent springs of 
 pure water which abound along its shores, and the 
 precipitous banks of town brook. The tide flowed 
 for some distance up this stream, and formed a con- 
 venient basin for the reception and safe shelter, of 
 the shallops and other vessels employed in their 
 early enterprises of fishing and traffic. It may in 
 some measure be owing to this circumstance, that 
 convenient wharves along the unprotected shores 
 were not sooner constructed. 
 
 This stream proceeds from Billington sea, which 
 is about two miles distant from town. It furnishes 
 a valuable water power in modern times, and in the 
 days of the pilgrims and for nearly two centuries 
 after it abounded with alewives, almost at their 
 doors, affording an important resource for the supply 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 191 
 
 of their wants. On the banks and vicinity of this 
 stream, they constructed their humble dwellings, 
 and spent the first winter after their arrival, and 
 experienced the keenest sufferings and sharpest 
 trials. Had not their voyage across the Atlantic 
 been treacherously delayed, and protracted to an 
 unusual length, they would doubtless have arrived 
 in season to secure a shelter before the advance of 
 winter. 
 
 They first constructed a frame building, twenty 
 feet square, for their common house, and soon after 
 other buildings for their stores and provisions. It 
 stood partly on the lot occupied by the dwelling 
 house of Capt. Samuel D. Holmes, on the south side 
 of Leyden street, near the declivity of the hill 
 towards the water side. In the year 1801, when 
 some men were digging a cellar on this*spot, several 
 tools and a plate of iron were discovered, seven feet 
 below the surface of the earth, which were carefully 
 preserved and highly valued, by the late Isaac 
 Lathrop Esq. who died in 1808, whose cherished 
 veneration for the fathers will be long remembered 
 by our citizens. 
 
 On the 28th of December in the afternoon, they 
 measured out their grounds, intending to build two 
 rows of houses on each side of the street commenc- 
 ing in town square, by which arrangement they 
 might the better find protection from the fortification 
 above, on the burying hill. On reference to page 62, 
 the reader will find a detailed account of their pro- 
 
192 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 ceedings, and on p^ge 123 an imperfect plan of their 
 lots. The whole company was divided into 19 
 families, averaging nearly six to a family; and the 
 lots were assigned allowing 8 1-4 feet to each per- 
 son.* Edward Winslow in his letter of Dec. 11th, 
 1621, which may be found page 94, writes, ' We have 
 built seven dwelling-houses, and four for the use of 
 the plantation.' These seven houses were doubtless 
 built on the seven lots indicated on the plan above 
 referred to, and four of them probably occupied the 
 ground on or above where the town house now 
 stands, and the other three commencing at the 
 opposite corner, extended towards the common 
 house 
 
 On the 14th of January those on board the ship 
 proposed going on shore to join their brethren in 
 keeping the first sabbath. At 6 o'clock in the morn- 
 ing however, they observed the common house on 
 fire, but on account of low water could render no aid 
 till three-fourths of an hour afterwards. The thatch 
 with which the roof was covered caught from a spark, 
 and instantly burnt up, but the building was saved. 
 Carver and Bradford were sick at the time, and the 
 room was crowded with beds, loaded muskets and 
 
 * Dr. Young in his Chronicles, in a note, page 170, says, the single 
 lots were 8 1-4 feet front, and 49 1-2 feet in depth. This appears 
 erroneous, and assumes for a whole family what was the portion of a 
 single person in the family. The dimensions of the lots, each person 
 being allowed one-half a pole, would be from 2 1-2 to 3 rods in front 
 and three rods in depth, for sufficient gardens, according to the size 
 of each family. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 193 
 
 powder, but they happily escaped without personal 
 injury, though not without pecuniary loss. 
 
 Of' the 100 persons who came in the Mayflower, a 
 large portion soon died, from the exhaustion and 
 disease occasioned by their explorations at Cape 
 Cod, and the severe labors required to provide a 
 shelter. Had not the winter of 1620 been one of 
 unusual mildness, a careful examination of all the 
 circumstances of their condition at that period, au- 
 thorizes the conclusion, that not a solitary individual 
 would have survived to recount the melancholy story 
 of an untimely fate. 
 
 The following is a bill of mortality preserved by 
 Prince, from the manuscripts of Gov. Bradford : 
 
 Deaths in December .6 
 
 " in January, 8 
 
 " in February, 17 
 
 in March, 13 
 
 Total, 44 
 
 Of this number (their names may be found 
 on page 46) twenty-one were subscribers 
 to the Compact, 21 
 
 Dorothy, wife of Bradford, Eose, wife of 
 Standish, Mary, wife of Alleiton, and Su- 
 sanna, wife of Winslow, . . . .4 
 
 Also Edward Thompson, the servant of 
 17 
 
194 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 William White, Jasper Carver, the son of 
 Gov. Carver, and Solomon, the son of 
 
 Christopher Martin, 3 
 
 Other women, children and servants, whose 
 names are not known, . . . .16 
 
 44 
 To the above should be added six more, in- 
 cluding Gov. Carver and his wife, who died 
 before the Fortune arrived, in Nov. 1621, 6 
 
 50 
 
 At this time therefore, there were only 50 sur- 
 vivors. 
 
 Of those not named among the survivors, young 
 men, women, children and servants, there were 31. 
 Of these, as may be seen in the division of lands in 
 1623, were Joseph Rogers, son of Thomas Rogers, 
 Mary Chilton, daughter of James Chilton, Henry 
 Samson and Humility Cooper. The names of the 
 surviving 19 who subscribed the Compact may be 
 found on reference to page 46. An alarm occurred 
 in July, 1621, occasioned by a rumor of hostile in- 
 tentions on the part of the Narragansett Indians, 
 and only nine men were in Plymouth, while the rest 
 were on an expedition to Nauset (Cape Cod.) How 
 small a number to meet the emergencies of that 
 period! 
 
 In the Common-house, according to tradition re- 
 ceived from an aged relative by the late Isaac 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OP THE PILGRIMS. 195 
 
 alhrop, Esq. who died in 1808, as mentioned by 
 Judge Davis in a note to the N. E. Memorial, the 
 celebrated sermon of Robert Cushman was deliv- 
 ered, some time in the month of November or De- 
 cember 1621. In this sermon he enforced with great 
 earnestness the importance of self denial, and pointed 
 out the special duties devolving on those who under- 
 take the settlement of new countries. 
 
 Early in the morning, March 16th, Samoset, an 
 Indian * Sagamore, a native of the eastern country, 
 crossing town brook, where the arched bridge is, ' he 
 very boldly came all alone and along the houses, 
 straight to the Rendesvous.' He doubtless passed 
 the houses then building at the corner of Leyden and 
 Market streets, passing on to the Common-house. 
 The reader is here referred to page 72 for a minute 
 description of Samoset and the information he 
 imparted. 
 
 On the 22d, Massasoit the Indian chief appeared 
 on the top of Watson's Hill with his train of 60 men 
 and Quadaquina his brother. The occurrences of 
 the interesting interview which followed are mi- 
 nutely detailed on page 77, to which the reader is 
 referred. The first New England treaty was here 
 concluded in one of the houses, ' then in building,' 
 which was kept inviolate by both parties for more 
 
 * Samoset was probably from the eastern country — somewhere 
 in the region of Penobscot. After the treaty with Massasoit no men- 
 tion of him occurs in history. 
 
196 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 than 50 years ; an honorable evidence of the upright 
 purposes and just dealings of our fathers, towards the 
 Indian race, which deserves to be held in everlasting 
 remembrance by their posterity. 
 
 The first parsonage house was built in this street, 
 and stood east of the present one, embracing the lots 
 on which now stand the houses of the late Barnabas 
 Churchill and James Bartlett. The lot, half an acre, 
 on which the present parsonage house stands, was 
 given March 1, 1G64, to the first church, by Mrs. 
 Bridget Fuller and Samuel Fuller, the excellent 
 widow and son of Samuel Fuller, who came in the 
 Mayflower in 1630, and died in 1633. It is now 
 occupied by Dr. James Kendall, senior pastor of the 
 first church, who was settled in the ministry, January 
 1st, 1800, and is now in the 77th year of his age. 
 
 The following vivid delineation of the scene of 
 suffering which occurred among the Pilgrims during 
 the first winter, is from the same pen to which the 
 reader's attention has before been invited. The 
 author after referring to the heroic achievements of 
 Theremopyla?, thus proceeds : 
 
 1 And yet do you not think, that whoso could, by 
 adequate description, bring before you that winter 
 of the pilgrims, its brief sunshine, the nights of 
 storms slow waning ; the damp and icy breath, felt 
 to the pillow of the dying, its destitutions, its con- 
 trasts with all their former experience in life, its utter 
 insulation and loneliness, its death beds and burials ; 
 its memories ; its hopes ; the consultations of the 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 197 
 
 prudent; the prayers of the pious; the occasional 
 cheerful hymn, in which the heart threw off its 
 burthen, and asserting its unvanquished nature, went 
 up to the skies — do ye not think that whoso would 
 describe them, calmly waiting in that defile, lonelier 
 and darker than Thermopylae, for a morning that 
 might never dawn, or might show them when it did, 
 a mightier arm than a Persian, raised in act to strike, 
 would he not sketch a scene of more difficult and 
 rare heroism? A scene as Wadsworth has said, 
 'melancholy, yea dismal, yet consolatory and full of 
 joy; a scene even better fitted, to succor, to exalt, to 
 lead the forlorn hopes of all great causes till time 
 shall be no more!' ' 
 
 Town Square. This first house of public wor- 
 ship, was built in this place. History affords nothing 
 definite respecting a place of public worship in 
 Plymouth, previous to 1622, though from incidental 
 hints, it may be inferred, that the common house was 
 used for that purpose. In 1622 a fort was erected 
 on the hill, and so constructed as to combine both 
 the means of defence and accommodations for public 
 worship, as is particularly mentioned by the early 
 historians. 
 
 In the year 1837, one of the planters gave by will 
 ■ somewhat,' to ' Plymouth meeting house.' Richard 
 Church, the father of Col. Church, and John Tomson, 
 who afterward settled in Middleborough, were the 
 architects, and Capt. Thomas Willet, was one of 
 17* 
 
198 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 the contracting committee, as appears from a suit of 
 law recorded in 1662, which has reference to them 
 as such. That it stood on the north side of Town 
 Square, is clearly inferred, from the fact that in 1G96, 
 William Bradford, son of the Governor, sold land 
 there situated, which is alluded to as the spot where 
 the old meeting house stood. This, observes the late 
 Samuel Davis, Esq., who possessed every advantage 
 for accurate information on the subject, * this is all 
 the description we shall'ever probably obtain, of this 
 ancient sanctuary where a Reynor. and a Cotton, 
 broke the bread of life, where a Brewster and a Cush- 
 man ruled in holy things.' It had a bell, but no di- 
 mensions are on record. 
 
 This house was taken down in 1683, when another 
 was built. It stood, not upon the old lot, but at the 
 head of Town Square, the front of it was consider- 
 ably lower down the square, than the present church, 
 It was 45 feet by 40. 
 
 There is a drawing of this church extant, made by 
 the late Samuel Davis, from the dimensions given 
 in the records, and from information otherwise ob- 
 tained, which is doubtless a correct representation. 
 
 In 1744. A third house was erected, on and near 
 the same spot of the former, being 71 feet 10 inches 
 in front, and 67 feet 8 inches deep. Its spire 100 feet 
 high was surmounted by a brass weathercock. 
 
 In 1631. The present Gothic House was built by 
 the first church. It measures 61 by 70 feet, and cost 
 about $10,000. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 199 
 
 The church of the Pilgrimage was erected in 1840, 
 that society having previously worshiped in their 
 house on training Green which was built in 1801. 
 This house was dedicated Nov. 24, 1840. The body 
 of the church is 68 by 59 feet, with a tower 26 feet 
 square. It contains 92 pews on the lower floor, and 
 80 seats in the organ loft, and will accommodate 
 about 700 people. ' It received its name in com- 
 memoration of the pilgrimage of our puritan fathers 
 to this place, and stands near the site of the church 
 they first erected for worship. 
 
 The Town, formerly the County House, was built 
 in the year 1748. It was in that day esteemed one 
 of the best models of architecture. The front door 
 was originally at the east end, with a handsome 
 flight of steps. It was planned by Judge Oliver of 
 Middleboro'. The town paid 1000 pounds old tenor, 
 towards the building, having the privilege to use it 
 for a town house, and when the New Court House 
 was built in 1820, they purchased it of the county. 
 
 The elm trees in this square, were set out in the 
 year 1783, by the late Thomas Davis, Esq., and 
 were brought by him from Portsmouth, N. H. 
 
 1 Let strangers walk around 
 The city where we dwell, 
 Compass and view thine holy ground, 
 
200 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 COLE'S HILL. 
 
 Cole's Hill * is an open green spot fronting the 
 harbor, a short distance above Forefathers Rock, 
 commanding a beautiful view of the ocean and high 
 lands, by which the bay is encircled. It was the 
 first burial ground of the pilgrims. On inspection 
 it will be found to have undergone considerable 
 changes, since its first' consecration as a temporary 
 receptacle of the dead. In the year 1735, a severe 
 storm occurred, and large quantities of water rushing 
 through Middle street, washed away some portion of 
 the banks, carrying in its current the remains of sev- 
 eral bodies, deposited there in the winter of 1620, and 
 spring of 1621. In the year 1809, a human scull was 
 disinterred, the teeth of which were in a perfect state 
 of preservation. The traditions respecting this place, 
 and its consecrated uses by the Pilgrims, were receiv- 
 ed from the same unquestionable sources, as are 
 mentioned in the account of Forefather's Rock on 
 page 176 of this work, and are stated by Dr. Holmes, 
 in his American Annals, and by the venerable Judge 
 Davis, in a note to his edition of the New England 
 Memorial, -to have been received by them many 
 years ago. 
 
 * This hill derives its name from James Cole, the first occupant, 
 who lived there in the year 1637, at the end of North street, then called 
 New street, on the south side. This lot embraced that now owned by 
 the heirs of the late Capt. William Davis, and the Drew estate adjoin- 
 ing, and extended to Middle street. 
 

 RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 201 
 
 The suffering, death, and funeral solemnities, of 
 which this spot was once the trying scene, have been 
 the subject of a description so consonant to the most 
 elevated principles of our nature, that no better ser- 
 vice can be rendered to every thoughtful observer, 
 than its transcription into these pages. 
 
 * ' In a late undesigned visit to Plymouth, I sought 
 the spot where their earlier dead were buried. It 
 was a bank you remember, somewhat elevated below 
 the town and between it and the water, near and 
 looking forth upon the waves, symbol of what life had 
 been to them ; ascending inland, behind and above 
 the rock, a symbol of that rock of ages, on which the 
 dying had rested in the final hour. As the Pilgrim 
 found these localities, you might stand on that bank 
 and hear the restless waters chafe and melt against 
 its steadfast bank ; the unquiet of the world composed 
 itself at the portals of the grave. On that spot have 
 laid to rest together, the earth carefully smoothed 
 down that the Indian might not count the number, 
 the true, the pious, the beautiful, and the brave, till 
 the heavens be no more. There certainly was 
 buried the first Governor, (Carver,) 'with three vol- 
 lies of shot fired over him;' and there was buried 
 Rose the wife of Miles Standish. 
 
 1 You shall go to them/ wrote Robinson in the 
 same letter from which I have read, ' but they shall 
 not return to you.' 
 
 * Choate's Oration delivered before the New England Society, at 
 New York, Dec. 22, 1S44. 
 
202 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 ■ I can seem to see, on a day quite towards the close 
 of their first month of March, a diminished procession 
 of the Pilgrims, following another dearly loved and 
 newly dead, to that brink of graves ; and pausing 
 sadly there, before they shall turn away to see that 
 face no more. In full view from that spot, is the 
 Mayflower, still riding at her anchor, but to sail in a 
 few days more for England, leaving them alone, the 
 living and the dead, to the weal or woe of their new 
 home. I cannot say what was the entire emotion of 
 that moment and that scene, but the tones of the 
 venerated elder's voice, as they gathered round him, 
 were full of cheerful trust ; and they went to hearts 
 as noble as his own ! This spot ; he might say, 'this 
 line of shore, yea, this whole land grows dearer, daily, 
 were it only for the precious dust which we have 
 committed to its bosom. I would sleep here, when 
 my own hour comes, rather than elsewhere, with 
 those who have shared with us in our exceeding 
 labors, and whose burdens are now unloosed forever. 
 I would be near them in the last day, and have a 
 part in their resurrection. And now,' he proceeded, 
 Met us go from the side of the grave to work with all 
 our might what we have to do. It is in my mind 
 that our night of sorrow is well nigh ended, and that 
 the joy of our morning is at hand. The breath of the 
 pleasant southwest is here, and the singing of birds. 
 The sore sickness is stayed, somewhat more than 
 half our number remain, and among them some of 
 our best and wisest, though others have fallen 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 203 
 
 asleep. Matter of joy and thanksgiving to Almighty 
 God it is, that among you all, the living and the 
 dead, I know not one, even when disease had touch- 
 ed him, and sharp grief had made his heart as a lit- 
 tle child's, who desired, yea, who could have been 
 entreated to go back to England by yonder ship. 
 Plainly it is his will, that we stand or fall here. All 
 his providences, these three hundred years, declare 
 it, as with beams of the sun. Did he not set his bow 
 in the clouds, in that bitter hour of embarking, and 
 build his glorious arch upon the sea, for us to sail 
 through hitherward ? Wherefore, let us stand to our 
 lot ! If he prosper us we shall found a church, 
 against which the gates of hell shall not prevail ; and 
 a colony, a nation, by which all the nations shall be 
 healed, and shall be saved. Millions shall spring from 
 our loins, and trace back with lineal love, their blood 
 to ours. Centuries hereafter, in great cities, the cap- 
 itols of mighty states, and from the tribes of a com- 
 mon and happy Israel, shall come together, the good, 
 the distinguished, the wise, to remember our dark 
 day of small things ; yea, generations shall call us 
 blessed. 
 
 'Without a sign, calmly, with triumph, they turned 
 away from the grave; they sent the Mayflower away 
 and went back, those stern, strong men, to their im- 
 perial labors.' 
 
204 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 THE BURYING HILL. 
 
 The pilgrim fathers are at rest : 
 
 When summer's throned on high, 
 And the worlds warm breast is in verdure drest, 
 
 Go, stand on the hill where they lie. 
 
 This hill was originally called the fort hill, from 
 the circumstance, of it.s occupation for defensive 
 purposes immediately after the landing. The first 
 encounter with the natives at Eastham as mentioned 
 page 55, though decisively resulting in the defeat of 
 the Indians by the pilgrims, naturally inspired appre- 
 hensions of future hostility from the same quarter. 
 Under these circumstances, their first measure of 
 precaution was the erection of a platform on the 
 hill, upon which their ordnance was placed, as a 
 protection to the dwellings, which they designed to 
 build in two rows directly below. The site of the 
 ancient fort is distinctly marked, on the southeast 
 part of the hill, which overlooks the bay and sur- 
 rounding country in every direction. It was con- 
 nected by a pathway through what is now Spring 
 street to the town brook, near which is Pilgrim 
 spring as found on the Map. In the year 1622, accord- 
 ing to Morton and other historians, ' They built a fort 
 with good timber both strong and comely, which 
 was of good defence, made with a flat roof and 
 battlements, on which fort their ordnance was mount- 
 ed, and where they kept constant watch, especially 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 205 
 
 in time of danger It served them also for a meet- 
 ing-house, and was fitted accordingly for that use.' 
 These precautions were taken at the time of threat- 
 ened hostility from Canonicas, the distinguished and 
 powerful Sachem of the Narraganset Indians. In 
 September, 1642, according to the town records, it 
 was agreed that every man should bring two pieces 
 more, eight feet long, to finish the fortification on the 
 fort-hill, and that Richard Church shall speedily 
 build the carriage for another piece of ordnance. 
 Sept. 23d, 1643. It is agreed upon by the whole, 
 that there shall be a watch-house forthwith built of 
 brick and that Mr Grimes will sell us the brick at 
 lis. a thousand. This is the first instance in which 
 brick are mentioned. In September of the same 
 year, the whole township was classed in a watch, 
 six men and a corporal assigned to a watch, 'when 
 Gov. Bradford, Mr. Prince, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Jenney, 
 Mr. Paddy, Mr. Souther were chosen the council of 
 war. Twenty-one individuals living at Jones River 
 and Wellingsley were appointed with others in town 
 to keep watch twenty-four hours, from sunset to 
 snnset, in regard to the danger of the Indians' — 
 those in the town according to order given Nathaniel 
 Souther and Thomas Southworth, appointed masters 
 of the watch. Arrangements were at the same time 
 made in case of alarm at Plymouth, Duxbury, and 
 Marshfield, that from the two former places twenty 
 men should repair to the scene of danger and ten from 
 the latter. Beacons were placed on Gallows hill, and 
 18 
 
206 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Captain's hill in Duxbury — and on the hill by Mr. 
 Thomas' house in Marshfield — to be fixed as signals 
 in case of danger. In the month of February, 1676, the 
 apprehension of danger from King Philip led to more 
 extensive and formidable defences of this point than 
 had been made at any previous period* 
 
 There exists no historical account of the time when 
 this hill first became the place of sepulchre. It has 
 
 * February 19th, 1675. 'It was ordered by the town that there shall 
 be forthwith a fortification built at Plymouth, to be an hundred foot 
 square, the palisadoes to be 10 feet and a half long, to be set two foot 
 and a half in the ground, and to be set against a post and a rail. 
 Every man is to do three foot of the said fence of the fortification. 
 The palisadoes are to be battered on the back side, one against every 
 two and sharpened on the tops — to be accomplished by every male 
 in each family from 16 years and upwards. And that there shall be a 
 watch-house erected within the said fence or fortification and that the 
 three pieces of ordnance shall be placed within the said fence or 
 fortification. Agreed with Nathaniel Southworth to build the said 
 watch-house, which is to be 16 feet in length and 12 feet in breadth 
 and eight stud, to be walled with board and to have two floors, the 
 upper floor to be six feet above the lower floor, and he is to batten 
 the walls and to make a small pair of stairs in it, and to frame two 
 small windows below, to make two gables to the roof on each side, 
 and to cover the roof with shingles. And to build a chimney in the 
 said house and to do all the work thereunto, only the frame is to be 
 brought to the place at the town's charge and for the said work he is 
 to have eight pounds.' At the close of this war, which resulted in the 
 permanent security of N. England against the natives, this fort was 
 no longer needed and was sold. The last mention of it in the town 
 records was in 1679, when the watch-house was given to Samuel 
 Jenney, to occupy it or remove the same if he thought fit. The 
 cannon were used for the defence of Cole's hill during revolutionary 
 times ; and afterwards were sold, to be wrought into some more 
 harmless form of human uses. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 207 
 
 however been inferred from traditions which have 
 come down, that it was so used not long after 1622, 
 when the fort was constructed and served for public 
 worship as well as defence. The following inscrip- 
 tions are from the oldest stones now on the hill. Why 
 grave-stones were not sooner placed there can now 
 only be subject of conjecture. Perhaps a sufficient 
 reason existed in the expense and difficulty of 
 promptly procuring stones from England — and some- 
 thing should be allowed to the weighty cares and 
 labors early required to hold possession of the conn- 
 try, demanding thoughts and energies which rendered 
 other considerations of comparatively secondary con- 
 sequence. 
 
 Here lies the body of Edward Gray, Gent, aged 
 about 52 years, and departed this life the last of 
 June, 1681. Mr. Gray was a distinguished and suc- 
 cessful merchant and a valuable man in his day and 
 generation. He lived in Rockey-Nook, and died 
 there ; and the same field near the water, on which 
 his house and store stood are still owned by his de- 
 scendants. 
 
 Here lies buried the body of Mr. Wm, Crow, aged 
 about 55 years, who deed January 1683-4. 
 
 Here lieth buried the body of that precious servant 
 of God, Mr. Thomas Cushman, who, after he had 
 served his generation according to the will of God, 
 and particularly the church of Plymouth for many 
 
208 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 years in the office of a ruling-elder, fell asleep in Je- 
 sus Dec. 10th, 1691, and in the 84th year of his age. 
 Mr. Cushman was the son of Robert Cushman. He 
 lived in the latter period of his life near Jones River; 
 and the place where he dwelt and the spring near it 
 is called Elder Spring to this day. It is a short dis- 
 tance south of the Kingston landing. 
 
 1695. Here lies buried ye body of Mr. Thomas 
 Clark, aged 98 years. Departed this life March 24, 
 1697. 
 
 It has long been supposed that Mr. Thomas Clark 
 was mate of the Mayflower; but tradition upon this 
 point is not entirely satisfactory. The christian 
 name of the Clark who was mate of this renowned 
 vessel is not mentioned in history. Thomas Clark 
 arrived in the Ann in 1623, at which time he was 23 
 years of age ; and if he were mate of the Mayflower 
 was 20 years old when she arrived in 1620. It is at 
 least remarkable, that no mention of him as such 
 appears in any record extant. 
 
 1645. Here lies buried the body of Mr. Thomas 
 Faunce, ruling elder of the first church of Christ in 
 Plymouth. Deceased Feb. 27, 1745, in the 99th year 
 of his age. 
 
 ■©' 
 
 The fathers — where are they ? 
 Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. 
 
 This venerable cotemporary of the pilgrims was 
 the last ruling elder of the first church, from whom 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 209 
 
 most of the traditions, respecting the first comers, 
 were received — a source of information deserving of 
 entire confidence. 
 
 *Here lies the body of Joseph Bartlett, who departed 
 this life, April the 9th, 1703, in the 38th year of his 
 age. 
 
 Thousands of years before blest Abel's fall, 
 'Twas said of him being dead he speaketh yet. 
 From silent grave methinks I hear a voice, 
 Pray fellow mortal do'nt your death forget ; 
 You that your eyes cast on this grave, 
 Know you a dying lime must have. 
 
 A white marble monument, with an appropriate 
 inscription was placed on the site well known as the 
 grave of Gov. Bradford, by several of his descend- 
 ants. It stands on the easterly brow of the hill — 
 and is 8 1-2 feet from the ground, and of pyramidal 
 form. 
 
 Near this monument is the grave of Win. Brad- 
 ford, son of the Governor. 
 
 Here lies the body of ye honorable Major William 
 Bradford, who expired Feb. ye 20th, 1703-4 — aged 
 79 years. 
 
 He lived long, but was still doing good, 
 And in his country's service lost much blood, 
 After a life well spent he's now at rest, 
 His very name and memory is blest. 
 
 * It has generally been supposed, that the grave stone of Edward 
 Gray, was the first placed on the hill — the late Dr. Nath'l Lothrop, 
 however, received information from an aged relative, from which it 
 appears that Mr. Barllett's was first placed there, though his death 
 was sometime subsequent to that of Mr. Gray. 
 18* 
 
210 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Some years ago a grave stone was placed over the 
 remains of John Howland, by his descendant in the 
 5th generation, the Hon. John Howland, of Provi- 
 dence, President of the Historical Society of Rhode 
 Island, now in the 89th year of his age. 
 
 Here ended the Pilgrimage of John Howland — 
 and Elizabeth his wife. She was the daughter of 
 Gov. Carver. They arrived in the Mayflower, Dec. 
 1620. They had four sons and six daughters, from 
 whom have descended a numerous posterity. 
 
 1672, Feb. 23d. John Howland of Plymouth de- 
 ceased. He lived to the age of 80 years. He was 
 the last man of them that came over in the May- 
 flower who settled in Plymouth. 
 
 The following lines from the grave stone of the 
 late Samuel Davis, Esq., may find an appropriate 
 place in closing a chapter devoted to ancient inscrip- 
 tions connected with the pilgrims. 
 
 From life on earth our pensive friend retires, 
 His dust commingling with the pilgrim sires ; 
 In thoughtful walk their every path he traced, 
 Peaceful and pure and innocent as they, 
 With them to rise, to everlasting day.* 
 
 * On the occasion of an anniversary celebration, some years ago, the 
 Rev. Dr. Peirce of Brooklyn and Mr. Davis were in conversation to- 
 gether, when several gentlemen entered the room, when the Doctor 
 introduced his friend, by observing, * Gentlemen, this is Mr. Davis, 
 who can tell us where we all came from ' — to which Mr. D. promptly 
 replied, « Gentlemen, this is Dr. Peirce, who can tell us where we are 
 all going to? 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 211 
 
 On a bright summer's day, at full tide, let some 
 thoughtful observer come 
 
 ' To the hill of hallowed brow, 
 Where the pilgrim sleepeth now.' 
 
 Let him come when no cloud obscures the heav- 
 ens, and the hushed air breathes no whisper, when 
 the unruffled ocean holds mirrored on its tranquil 
 bosom, the varied forms of surrounding objects, and 
 the chastened feelings of the hour, court the sym- 
 pathy of nature's repose, symbol of that deeper 
 repose, brooding over the sleep of many generations. 
 Facing the beautiful expanse of waters before him, 
 the green ridge of Manomet is seen, rising nearly 
 four hundred feet above the ocean, having the beach 
 stretching its slender form from its notherly side three 
 miles in extent, reposing quietly beneath its misty veil 
 of blue, as if to gain fresh vigor, to encounter the 
 furious congregation of billows, that often beat and 
 foam against the huge rocks that encircle its base. 
 Extending his vision across the bay, a distance of 
 twenty-five miles, the white cliffs of Cape Cod 
 appear as if suspended in mid-air by some secret 
 enchantment of nature. Contracting his vision with- 
 in a narrower compass, it rests on the white towers of 
 the gurnet light house, reflected in the depths below, 
 occupying the extreme point of Marshfield beach, 
 seven miles from the main land; from whence the 
 gleaming messenger of hope may sooner penetrate 
 
212 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 the darkness of night, and guide the lost manner to 
 some haven of safety. Protected by Saquish head, 
 stands Clark's Island, where the wrecked shallop of 
 the Mayflower, shrouded in darkness, and just escap- 
 ing destruction from the foaming breakers of the 
 neighboring cove, at last found shelter, and the 
 weather-beaten pilgrim, in his joyous hour of safety 
 from peril, ' thanked God and took courage.' Beyond, 
 lies the extended village of Duxbnry, sparkling in 
 sunlight, reaching to the Hill of Standish, full of in- 
 teresting associations ; and Kingston, with its neat 
 dwellings, scattered along between pleasant groves, 
 and teeming flood, terminating the survey of hills 
 and plains and waters, which once formed the active 
 scene of intense labor, perilous enterprise and endur- 
 ing power, to men whose ashes now mingle with the 
 ground on which the rapt observer stands. 
 
 CLARK'S ISLAND. 
 
 ' And the heavy night hung- dark, 
 The hills and waters o'er, 
 When a band of exiles moored their bark 
 On the wild JSew England shore.' 
 
 This Island received its name from Clark, the 
 master's mate of the ship Mayflower. It is in some 
 measure sheltered from the ocean by Saquish on the 
 south and Marshfield beach on the east. It presents 
 a beautiful feature in the scenery of Plymouth har- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 213 
 
 bor distant three miles from town, but is chiefly 
 interesting in connection with the pilgrims, who 
 providentially found a shelter by its side, on the night 
 of December 8th, 1620. Having taken their depar- 
 ture from Eastham and coasted along Barnstable 
 Bay about 45 miles as mentioned page 55, on enter- 
 ing Plymouth harbor they narrowly escaped running 
 the shallop into a cove full of breakers, which is 
 formed between the gurnet light house and Saquish 
 head, a distance of about two miles. On approaching 
 the breakers a resolute seaman at the helm cried 
 out to the oarsmen, 'if they were men, about with 
 her, or they were all cast away ; ' which call was 
 promptly executed, and favored by the flood-tide, 
 they weathered Saquish head and secured a shelter. 
 Here they kindled a fire and spent the night. In the 
 morning they explored the island, without finding 
 either dwellings or inhabitants. The weather being 
 extremely cold, Saturday the 9th was spent in re- 
 cruiting their strength, drying their arms, and repair- 
 ing the shallop. The next day being Sunday, • they 
 rested ' and kept the first New England Sabbath, 
 notwithstanding the urgent necessity then existing, 
 to hasten their explorations, for some place of perma- 
 nent settlement. 
 
 On Monday, the 11th of December, they sounded 
 the harbor, and landed on the Rock of Plymouth, 
 which date corresponds with the 21st of December 
 new style, according to the decision of our best 
 astronomers, though the 22d has usually been the 
 day of anniversary celebrations. 
 
214 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 In the year 1637, ' The court granted, that Clark's 
 Island, the Eel River beach, saqoish and the gurnet's 
 nose, shall be and remain unto the town of Ply- 
 mouth.' The Island was originally well wooded, 
 principally with red cedar, wiiich in after times was 
 frequently converted into gate posts for the supply of 
 Boston market. Four or five weather beaten tenants 
 of this spot still remain, and might in their days of 
 youthful vigor, have formed part of the forest which 
 poetry has delightfully personified in connection with 
 the Fathers, 
 
 ' When the leafless woods repealed 
 The music of their psalm, 
 ' When they shook the depths of the desert gloom 
 With their song of lofly cheer.' 
 
 This Island contains 86 1-4 acres, according to a 
 survey ordered by Sir Edmund Andros, Feb. 23d, 
 16S7, executed by Philip Wells, and was pronounced 
 by Gov. Hutchinson one of the best in Massachu- 
 setts. It was sold by the town, in 1690, to Samuel 
 Lucas, Elkanah Watson, and George Morton. The 
 late John Watson Esq. was the proprietor of the 
 Island, where he resided about 40 years, and died 
 Feb. 1, 1826, in the 78th year of his age. He was 
 one of the founders of the Old Colony Club in 1769, 
 and President of the Pilgrim Society after the year 
 1820, till his death. The place is now under good 
 cultivation by his son, Mr. Edward Watson. On a 
 very accurate map of Plymouth, drawn by James 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 215 
 
 Blascowith, Esq. a Naval Engineer, by order of the 
 British Government in the year 1774, a large rock on 
 the Island is named Election Rock, which according 
 to information obtained from elderly persons now 
 living, probably derived its name from the fact, that 
 parties of pleasure in early times resorted there, to 
 spend election holidays. This map probably contains 
 the only record extant here of an ancient holiday, 
 full of excitement to the community, in the former 
 days of New England. 
 
 It ought perhaps to be stated here, that history has 
 not preserved the christian names of either Jones or 
 Clark, the master and mate of the Mayflower, or of 
 Reynolds, master of the Speedwell. 
 
 BILLINGTON SEA. 
 
 This beautiful expanse of water, though it may 
 not justly aspire to all the dignity which its name 
 would seem to import, and which, soon after its dis- 
 covery, received from the planters themselves, the 
 more unassuming and appropriate appellation of 
 Fresh Lake, still possesses strong attractions to the 
 lovers of nature, in her more secluded, but not less 
 interesting manifestations of beauty. 
 
 It was discovered by ' Francis Bilington,' in 1621, 
 who 'having the week before, (on the eighth of Jan- 
 uary,) seen from the top of a tree, on a high hill, a 
 great sea as he thought, went with the master's mate 
 
216 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 to see it.' They found seven or eight wigwams, but 
 no inhabitants. Whether these dwellings served for 
 occasional accommodation to the Namasket Indians, 
 when visiting the sea-shore for shell fish, or had 
 been deserted in consequence of the destructive 
 plague of 1616, must remain the subject of conjec- 
 ture only. It is quite probable, however, that the 
 Indian path from Namasket wound its way along 
 this woodland region, and so continued on the south 
 side of Town Brook. It is about one and a half 
 miles long, and half a mile in width at its extreme 
 points, and six miles in compass along its winding 
 shores. It imbosoms an Island containing two acres 
 of land, formerly covered with every variety of forest 
 trees, and now mostly replaced by an orchard and 
 dwelling house. Some thirty years ago it was the 
 usual and favorite resort of social parties from town, 
 since which it has in some measure experienced the 
 rivalship peculiar to all human concerns; while 
 South, Long, and Herring Ponds, having deeper 
 water and greater abundance of fish, often divert 
 the votaries of innocent amusement to their attrac- 
 tive shores. 
 
 During the last summer this ancient and agreeable 
 resort, seems to have acquired new favor in public 
 estimation, and among the throng of visitors to 
 Plymouth, in quest of antiquity, and to seek relaxa- 
 tion from the cares of city life, many have found its 
 shady groves a source of refreshment and delight. 
 
 The water power afforded by this spacious foun- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 217 
 
 tain, from whence Town brook proceeds in its course 
 of two miles to the harbor, is not liable to the many 
 fluctuations incident to most of our streams. It has, 
 from time immemorial, been of great importance to 
 our citizens, and might with skillful improvements, 
 increase the productive power of our manufactures to 
 a very large extent. 
 
 In this comparatively sequestered region, the eagle 
 still maintains his ancient dominion, majestically 
 soaring above his native hills, the abode of many 
 generations. Here the beautiful wood duck still 
 roams with diminished chances of success, in quest 
 of a secluded retreat — and the bounding deer, sport- 
 ively ranging through forest and glade, finds refresh- 
 ment on the margin of its pure waters ; or, when 
 heated in the chase from some perilous onset of the 
 reckless hunter, with hurried flight venturously 
 braves the welcome flood, his only chance of secu- 
 rity from unrelenting pursuit. • 
 
 Note. It seems almost certain that an error exists in the original 
 edition of Mourt's relation, printed in 1622, where the name of Francis 
 Billington occurs, which probably should have been written John 
 Billington. Dr. Young, in his chronicles, has copied this work, and 
 on page 149 may be found what is presumed to have been an error in 
 the original. The note of Dr. Young on the same page, referring to 
 Francis Billington, would not therefore be applicable to Francis, but 
 would be appropriate when applied to John, senior. John Billington, 
 senior, signed the compact on board the Mayflower, and his family, as 
 appears from that instrument, consisted of four persons, including 
 probably himself, his wife Helen, and two sons, Francis and John. 
 History and the records are both silent respecting the boy John after 
 his recovery, who had strolled away from the plantation and caused so 
 
 19 
 
218 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 THE OLD COLONY CLUB. 
 
 As our public anniversary celebrations originated 
 with this association, some account of its origin will 
 doubtless be interesting to the reader. It was formed 
 in 1769, as will be seen from the following extracts 
 copied from the records which are now in existence, 
 
 January 16lh, 1769. — 'We whose names are 
 underwritten, having maturely weighed and seriously 
 considered the many disadvantages and inconven- 
 iences that arise from intermixing with the company 
 at the taverns in this town, and apprehending that a 
 well regulated club will have a tendency to prevent 
 the same, and to increase, not only the pleasure and 
 happiness of the respective members, but, also, will 
 conduce to their edification and instruction, do hereby 
 incorporate ourselves into a society, by the name of 
 the Old Colony Club. For the better regulation of 
 
 much trouble to the pilgrims. In the division of lands in 1623, John 
 Billing-ton had three acres of land assigned him ; and in the division of 
 cattle in 1627 the names of John, Helen, and Francis only are men- 
 tioned. 
 
 Francis Billington, it may be inferred from all we can gather 
 respecting him, did not partake of his father's characteristics. John, 
 his father, was hung in 1630, for waylaying and shooting John New- 
 comen, who, according to tradition, intruded on his hunting grounds, 
 and, not heeding the warning given him to desist, became the victim 
 of one who had before proved himself a pestilent fellow — and event- 
 ually verified the declaration of Gov. Bradford to Robert Cushman, 
 that • he was a knave and would so live and die.' 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 219 
 
 which we do consent and agree to observe all such 
 rules and laws, as shall from time to time be made 
 by the club. Dated at our Hall, in Plymouth, the 
 day and year above written. 
 
 Isaac Lothrop, John Thomas, 
 
 Pelham Winslow, Edward Winslow, Jr., 
 
 Thomas Lothrop, John Watson, 
 
 Elkanah Cushman. 
 
 December 18th. — At a meeting of the club, voted, 
 that Friday next be kept by this club in commemora- 
 tion of the landing of our worthy ancestors in this 
 place ; that the club dine together at Mr. Howland's, 
 and that a number of gentlemen be invited to spend 
 the evening with us at the Old Colony Hall. 
 
 Old Colony Bay. First Celebration of the Landing 
 of our Forefathers. — Friday, December 22. The 
 Old Colony Club, agreeably to a vote passed the 
 18th instant, met, in commemoration of the landing 
 of their worthy ancestors in this place. On the 
 morning of the said day, after discharging a cannon, 
 was hoisted upon the hall an elegant silk flag, with 
 the following inscription, ' Old Colony' 1620. At 
 eleven o'clock, A. M. the members of the club 
 appeared at the hall, and from thence proceeded to 
 the house of Mr. Rowland, inn-holder, which is erect- 
 ed upon the spot where the first licensed house in 
 the Old Colony formerly stood ; at half after two a 
 decent repast was served, which consisted of the fol- 
 lowing dishes, viz. 
 
220 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 1, a large baked Indian whortleberry pudding; 2, a 
 dish of sauquetach, (succatach, corn and beans boil- 
 ed together;) 3, a dish of clams; 4, a dish of oysters 
 and a dish of cod fish ; 5, a haunch of vension, roast- 
 ed by the first Jack brought to the colony ; 6, a dish 
 of sea fowl; 7, a dish of frost fish and eels; 8 an 
 apple pie ; 9, a course of cranberry tarts, and cheese 
 made in the Old Colony. 
 
 These articles were dressed in the plainest man- 
 ner (all appearance of luxury and extravagance being 
 avoided, in imitation of our ancestors, whose memory 
 we shall ever respect.) At 4 o'clock, P. M. the 
 members of our club, headed by the steward, carrying 
 a folio volume of the laws of the Old Colony, hand 
 in hand marched in procession to the hall. Upon the 
 appearance of the procession in front of the hall, a 
 number of descendants from the first settlers in the 
 Old Colony, drew up in a regular file, and discharged 
 a volley of small arms, succeeded by three cheers, 
 which were returned by the club, and the gentlemen 
 generously treated. After this, appeared at the private 
 grammar school opposite the hall, a number of young 
 gentlemen, pupils of Mr. Wadsworth, who, to express 
 their joy upon this occasion, and their respect for the 
 memory of their ancestors, in the most agreeable 
 manner joined in singing a song very applicable to 
 the day. At sunsetting a cannon was discharged, 
 and the flag struck. In the evening the hall was 
 illuminated, and the following gentlemen, being pre- 
 viously invited, joined the club, viz. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 221 
 
 Co). George Watson, Capt. Thomas Davis, 
 
 Col James Warren, Dr. Nathaniel Lothrop, 
 
 James Hovey, Esq., Mr. John Russell, 
 
 Thomas Mayhew, Esq., Mr. Edward Clarke, 
 William W T atson, Esq., Mr. Alexander Scammell, 
 Capt. Gideon White, Mr. Peleg Wadsworth, 
 
 Capt. Elkanah Watson, Mr. Thomas Southworth 
 
 Howland. 
 The president being seated in a large and vener- 
 able chair* which was formerly possessed by Wil- 
 liam Bradford, the second worthy governor of the 
 Old Colony, and presented to the club, by our friend 
 Dr. Lazarus Le Baron, of this town, delivered sever- 
 al appropriate toasts. 1 After spending the evening 
 
 * This ancient chair is now in the family of Nathaniel Russell, Esq. 
 
 1 1. To the memory of onr brave and pions ancestors, the first set- 
 tlers of the Old Colony. 
 
 2. To the memory of John Carver and all the other worthy Gover- 
 nors of the Old Colony. 
 
 3. To the memory of that pious man and faithful historian, Mr. Sec- 
 retary Morton. 
 
 4. To the memory of that brave man and good officer, Capt. Miles 
 Standish. 
 
 5. To the memory of Massasoit, our first and best friend, and ally of 
 the Natives. 
 
 6. To the memory of Mr. Robert Cushman, who preached the first 
 sermon in New England. \ 
 
 7. The union of the Old Colony and Massachusetts. 
 
 8. May every person be possessed of the same noble sentiments 
 against arbitrary power that our worthy ancestors were endowed 
 with. 
 
 9. May every enemy to civil or religious liberty meet the same or a 
 worse fate than Arch Bishop Laud. 
 
 19* 
 
222 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 in an agreeable manner, in recapitulating and con- 
 versing upon the many and various advantages of our 
 forefathers in the first settlement of this country, and 
 the growth and increase of the same, — at eleven 
 o'clock in the evening a cannon was again fired, three 
 cheers given, and the club and company withdrew.' 
 
 In 1770. The anniversary of the landing was 
 celebrated much in the same manner as in the pre- 
 ceding year, with the addition of an address by 
 Edward Winslow, Jun. Esq., the first ever delivered 
 on any similar occasion. 
 
 • In order to remind us of the debt of gratitude we 
 owe to our God, and to our ancestors, the following 
 words were spoken, with modest and decent firm- 
 ness, by a member of the club, (Edward Winslow, 
 Jr., Esq.) 
 
 1 When I recollect, that about one century and a 
 half since, a few worthies on the Island of Great 
 Britain, persecuted and tormented by the wicked 
 aspiring great, for thinking freely, and for acting with 
 the same dignity and freedom with which they 
 thought, although their sentiments and conduct were 
 conformed to the laws of the society in which they 
 lived, contrary to the common cause of suffering hu- 
 manity, which frequently sinks in proportion to the 
 
 10. May the Colonies be speedily delivered from all the burthens 
 and oppressions they now labor under. 
 
 11. A speedy and lasting union between Great Britain and her Col- 
 onies. 
 
 12. Unanimity, prosperity, and happiness to the Colonies. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 223 
 
 power exerted against it, did dare, in defiance of 
 their persecutors, to form themselves into one body 
 for the common safety and protection of all, an en- 
 gagement, which though founded on the true and 
 genuine principles of religion and virtue, unhappy 
 experience taught them was too weak and insecure 
 a barrier against the arts and stratagems of such po- 
 tent adversaries. When we recollect that, under 
 these melancholy circumstances, having no other 
 resort to preserve the purity of their minds, they 
 abandoned their native country, their friends, their 
 fortunes, and connections, and transported themselves 
 tolhe city of Leyden, with the most sanguine hopes 
 of a protection which the Island had refused to afford 
 them. When we recollect that persecution, from 
 another quarter, rendered their situation in the states 
 of Holland equally as perplexed and disagreeable, — 
 how am I astonished that such repeated disappoint- 
 ments had not rendered them too weak ever to make 
 another attempt. But when we view them rising 
 from their misfortunes with tenfold vigor, and upon 
 the same virtuous principles, crossing the Atlantic 
 with the dearest companions of life, their wives, their 
 helpless offspring, exposed to the roughness of the 
 ocean, to the inclemencies of the weather, and all 
 their attendant evils, and landing in the tempestuous 
 month of December upon an unknown shore, inhab- 
 ited by men more fierce than beasts of prey, and 
 scarcely deserving to be called human, natural ene- 
 mies to their virtue and morality, with whom they 
 
224 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 are obliged to wage an immediate and unequal war 
 for their defence and safety. When we view them, 
 under all the disadvantages naturally attendant upon 
 a state of sickness and poverty, defending themselves 
 against savage cruelties, and still persevering in their 
 virtuous resolutions, establishing their religion in this 
 then desert, forming a code of laws wisely adapted 
 to their circumstances, and planting a colony, which, 
 through divine goodness, has nourished and become 
 an important branch of that body which caused their 
 emigration, — how am I lost in amazement! And to 
 what cause can we ascribe these deliverances and 
 salvation, but to that Almighty being who orders all 
 events for the benefit of mankind, whose ways are to 
 us unsearchable, whose doings are past our finding 
 out. 
 
 ' Upon a recollection of all these things, it is not to 
 be wondered, that we the sons and descendants from 
 such illustrious ancestors, upon this 22d of Decem- 
 ber, are assembled upon the very spot on which they 
 landed, to commemorate this period, the most import- 
 ant that the annals of America can boast, a period 
 which, I doubt not every person here present esteems 
 an honor, as well as his incumbent duty, gratefully 
 to remember ; and while we feel for the misfortunes 
 and calamities of those, our pious ancestors, the con- 
 sequences of which to us are so delightful and glori- 
 ous, let us also admire and adore their virtue, their pa- 
 tience, their fortitude, and their heroism, and continue 
 to commemorate it annually. This virtue is undoubt- 
 

 RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 225 
 
 edly rewarded with joys which no tongue can utter, 
 nor hath it entered into the heart of man to conceive ; 
 and if we, their sons, act from the same principles, 
 and conduct with the same noble firmness and reso- 
 lution, when our holy religion or our civil liberties are 
 invaded, we may expect a reward proportionate ; for 
 such principles render the soul tranquil and easy 
 under all the misfortunes and calamities to which 
 human nature is exposed, and of him who is pos- 
 sessed by them, the poet with propriety says, 
 
 c Should the whole frame of nature round him break, 
 
 In ruin and confusion hurled, 
 He, unconcerned, would hear the mighty crack, 
 And stand secure amidst a falling world.' ' 
 
 The Rev. Dr. Chandler Robbins, pastor of the first 
 church, took a lively interest in the public celebra- 
 tions instituted by this club, and was their frequent 
 guest. In a letter addressed to the Club, dated Dec. 
 23, 1771, he suggested, 'whether it would not be 
 agreeable for the entertainment and instruction of 
 the rising generation, on these anniversaries to have 
 a sermon in public, some part of the day peculiarly 
 adapted to the occasion.' This recommendation has 
 been generally observed from that day to the present 
 time. 
 
 In the year 1773 the association was dissolved, in 
 consequence of conflicting opinions existing among 
 its members in relation to the American Revolution. 
 Its meetings were at first held in the front room of 
 
226 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 the house of Mr. Jonathan Diraan, which stood upon 
 the lot where the Mansion House now stands, at the 
 corner of North and Maine streets, and afterwards in 
 the Old Colony Hall. 
 
 Their public dinners were provided at the public 
 house of Mr. Howland, which stood on the spot now 
 occupied by the dwelling house of Josiah Robbins, 
 Esq. Among the invited guests at various times 
 present at their meetings, were the following dis- 
 tinguished individuals: John Adams, Robert T. 
 Paine, Daniel Leonard, Col. Thomas Oliver, Richard 
 Leachmur, Nathan dishing, Peleg Wadsworth, 
 William Sever, Benjamin Kent, Gen. John Winslow 
 and Dr. Charles Stockbridge. 
 
 Feb. 8, 1770. ' This evening was read at the Hall, 
 the provoked husband, a comedy, by Mr. M. A. War- 
 well, to a company of about forty gentlemen and 
 ladies, by invitation of the Club.' 
 
 The officers of the Club were the late Isaac Lo- 
 throp, Esq., President; Thomas Lothrop, Esq., Sec- 
 retary, and Elkanah Cushman, Steward. 
 
 WATSON'S HILL. 
 
 This hill rises to an elevated height on the south 
 side of Town Brook, and was called Strawberry Hill 
 by the first planters. It was early owned by George 
 Watson, an ancient and valuable settler. Its Indian 
 name was Cantaugantust; the signification of which, 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS 227 
 
 has not been ascertained, though diligent inquiry has 
 been made for that purpose. Since the days of Eliot, 
 Mayo, Cotton, and Treat, the language and the race 
 of Indians seem to have shared one common fate. 
 It might become an interesting subject of speculation 
 to consider what effect would be produced on the 
 minds of those devoted missionaries, were they per- 
 mitted to visit the earth and witness the desolation 
 which has spared hardly a solitary descendant of the 
 numerous converts they once gathered into the fold 
 of christian hope. 
 
 On the summit of this hill, Massasoit appeared with 
 his train of sixty men, where hostages were exchang- 
 ed between him and the Pilgrims, as a preliminary 
 step to the treaty of peace which immediately fol- 
 lowed. 
 
 This place was probably a favorite resort of the 
 natives prior to the landing. Excavations have been 
 made at various times, and Indian remains have been 
 found there within a few years. On the west side 
 shells are found in large quantities, evidently the 
 remnant of many a simple Indian feast, for which 
 the situation possessed every advantage, having the 
 best springs close at hand, of which none were bet- 
 ter judges than the natives, till their taste became 
 perverted by the immoderate use of the strong water, 
 supplied them by the reckless white men, who 
 have so often unscrupulously employed the article, 
 both to their own destruction and the oppression of 
 that injured race. 
 
GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 FRIENDLY INDIANS. 
 
 It is no more than a simple act of justice, to bring 
 into view the names of Massasoit, Samoset, Squanto 
 or Tisquantum, Hobomock, Tockamahamon, Aspinot, 
 and Jyanough, whose names so often appear, in 
 honorable connection with the pilgrims, for several 
 years after their landing. They deserve grateful 
 remembrance for their early friendship, valuable 
 services, and 'unshaken fidelity during the most 
 trying period of our early history. 
 
 Massasoit was probably about forty years of age, 
 at the time of his first interview with the fathers, as 
 may be inferred from the description preserved of 
 his person and other circumstances connected with 
 his history and death, which latter event occurred, 
 according to the best authorities, about the year 1662. 
 
 When Edward Winslow was on his way to relieve 
 the dangerous sickness of Massasoit, with Hobo- 
 mock for his guide, and a false rumor prevailed of his 
 death, Hobomock believing it true, 'manifesting a 
 troubled spirit, brake forth into these speeches, ' my 
 loving sachem, my loving, loving sachem ! Many 
 have I known, but never any like thee.' And turning 
 him to me said, whilst I lived, I should never see his 
 like amongst the Indians ; saying he was no liar, he 
 was not bloody and cruel like other Indians ; contin- 
 uing a long speech with such signs of lamentation 
 and unfeigned sorrow, as it would have made the 
 hardest heart to relent.' 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 229 
 
 This spontaneous expression of regard for Massasoit 
 is of far more value and weight, in proof of his excel- 
 lent character, than volumes of labored panegyric. 
 
 Nothing is said respecting Samoset after the 
 appearance of Massasoit in March, 1621. He prob- 
 ably soon returned to the eastward, near Penobscot, 
 of which he was a native, and no opportunity perhaps 
 afterwards presented, to renew the ' welcome/ with 
 which he first greeted the pilgrims. 
 
 History relates that Hobomock adopted the Chris- 
 tian faith, and was not only a faithful pinese or chief 
 counsellor of Massasoit, but ever true to his English 
 friends. It is supposed he died about the year 1642. 
 Aspinet was sachem of Nauset (Eastham) and 
 though his tribe attacked the pilgrims, their hostility 
 was doubtless occasioned by the perfidy of Hunt, the 
 captain of an English vessel, who had some years 
 before carried several of their friends away, and sold 
 them as slaves. 
 
 The hospitality and personal appearance of Jya- 
 nough, the ' courteous sachem ' of Cummaquid (Barn- 
 stable) is mentioned in history, with commendations, 
 which indicate his superiority in these respects to 
 any other native with whom the pilgrims held inter- 
 course. The strong hold acquired by our fathers over 
 the affections of these savages of the wilderness, is 
 certainly remarkable, and affords the best evidence 
 of their upright intentions, their sense of justice, and 
 earnest desire to inhabit the land without dispossess- 
 ing the Indian race. 
 20 
 
230 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 PILGRIM HALL. 
 
 The Pilgrim Hall which is now fitted up in a man- 
 ner convenient and appropriate, for the reception of 
 interesting memorials connected with the Pilgrims, 
 contains the following, among other attractions to the 
 antiquarian visitor: 
 
 The Landing of the Fathers in 1620, painted by 
 the late Henry Sargent, Esq., of Boston, and gener- 
 ously presented by him to the Pilgrim Society. It 
 was valued at $3000. The gilt frame was purchased 
 by the Pilgrim Society, with funds raised by sub- 
 scription, and cost about $400. It is 13 by 16 feet. 
 
 The following individuals are represented in the 
 painting attired in the costume of their time. 
 
 1st. Governor Carver and his wife and children. 
 2d. Governor Bradford. 3d. Governor Winslow. 
 4th. Wife of Governor Winslow. 5th. Mr. William 
 Brewster, the Elder of Leyden Church. 6th. Cap- 
 tain Miles Standish. 7th. Mr. William White, and 
 his child Peregrine. 8th. Mr. Isaac Allerton and his 
 wife. 9th. Mr. John Alden. 10th. Mr. John Turner. 
 11th. Mr. Stephen Hopkins, his wife and children. 
 12th. Mr. Richard Warren. 13th. Mr. Edward Tel- 
 ley. 14th. Mr. Samuel Fuller. 15th. Wife of Cap- 
 tain Standish. 16th. Samoset, an Indian Sagamore 
 or Lord. 17th. Mr. John Howland, son in law of 
 Governor Carver. 
 
 Portraits. 1st. Edward Winslow, painted in 
 London in 1651, copied from the original, by C. A. 
 
TTncto 
 
 RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 231 
 
 Foster.. 2d. Josiah Winslow, the first native Gover- 
 nor of the Old Colony, painted in London in 1651 ; 
 copied from the original, by C. A. Foster. 3d. Gov. 
 Josiah Winslow's wife, Penelope Pelham ; copied 
 from the original, by C. A. Foster. 4th. General 
 John Winslow; copied from the original, by C. A. 
 Foster. The portrait of Gov. Edward Winslow is 
 the only one preserved, of those who came in the 
 Mayflower. The originals of these paintings belong 
 to Isaac Winslow, Esq., of Boston, and are now in 
 the rooms of the Massachusetts Historical Society. 
 5th. A portrait of the Hon. Ephraim Spooner, pre- 
 sented by Thomas Davis, Esq., of Boston. 6th. A 
 portrait of John Alden, Esq , of Middleborough, who 
 died in 1821, aged 102 years. He was the great 
 grandson of John Alden, who came in the Mayflow- 
 er. Painted and presented by Cephas Thompson, 
 Esq. 7th. A portrait of Hon. John Trumbull, pre- 
 sented by Col. John Trumbull. This portrait was 
 painted in 1781. The face was executed by Mr. 
 Stewart, and the other parts by Mr. Trumbull him- 
 self, while a student with him. 8th. A portrait of 
 James Thacher, M. D., late Librarian and Cabinet 
 keeper of the Pilgrim Society. It was painted by 
 Mr. Frothingham, in January, 1841, by order of the 
 Pilgrim Society, pursuant to a vote expressing their 
 sense of the valuable services he had rendered, in 
 promoting the objects of said society. # 
 
 * Dr. Thatcher was appointed Librarian and Cabinet Keeper of the 
 Pilgrim Society at its first organization, and his indefatigable efforts 
 
232 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 The bust of Hon. Daniel Webster, presented by- 
 James T. Hayward, Esq., of Boston. The bust of 
 Hon. John Adams, presented by Samuel Nicholson, 
 Esq. 
 
 The addition of Weir's painting copied from the 
 original at Washington, representing the memorable 
 scene of the embarkation of the Pilgrims at Delftha- 
 ven, would afford a valuable addition to the attrac- 
 tions of Pilgrim Hall, which it is hoped will be 
 made, when the requisite means can be obtained, for 
 accomplishing so desirable an object. 
 
 Among the antiquities in the Cabinet of the Pil- 
 grim Society are the following : 
 
 A chair which belonged to Gov. Carver. The 
 sword of Miles Standish, presented by William S. 
 Williams, Esq. A pewter dish which belonged to 
 Miles Standish, presented by the late Joseph Head, 
 Esq. An iron pot which belonged to Miles Standish, 
 presented by the late John Watson, Esq. A brass 
 steelyard, owned by Thomas Southworth. A cane 
 which belonged to William White, presented by Hon. 
 John Reed. A dressing case which belonged to 
 
 contributed largely to the promotion of its objects. The following 
 extract from the report of a Committee of the Society indicates the 
 sense entertained of his services : ' The undersigned, to whom was 
 referred the report of Dr. James Thatcher, respecting the Iron Railing 
 around the Forefather's Rock, report that the Society are indebted 
 to Dr. Thatcher for this beautiful and costly monument, which while it 
 secures the Pilgrim Rock from further depredation, records for the 
 benefit of posterity, the names of our fathers, and affords a pleasing 
 subject of contemplation to many strangers who visit us.' — Dr. 
 Thatcher died May 23, 1844, aged 90. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 233 
 
 "IVm. White. The gun-barrel with which King 
 Philip was killed, presented by Mr. John Cook of 
 Kingston. The original letter of king Philip to Gov. 
 Prince, written in 1662. A china mug and leather 
 pocket-book which belonged to Thomas Clark. A 
 piece of ingenious embroidery, in a frame, executed 
 by Lorea Standish, a daughter of Miles Standish, 
 presented by Rev. Lucius Alden of East Bridgewater. 
 Many curiosities are still in the hands of individuals 
 and families, which might add much to the interest 
 of Pilgrim Hall. 
 
 There is also a library consisting of miscellaneous 
 works presented by various individuals since the 
 formation of the Pilgrim Society in 1820. The Iron 
 Railing in front of Pilgrim Hall, enclosing a part of 
 Forefathers' Rock, was designed by the late George 
 Brimmer Esq., of Boston. The names inscribed 
 upon it — 41 in number — are those who signed the 
 Compact on board the Mayflower, in Cape Cod 
 harbor, Nov. 11, 1620. This railing cost $410, and 
 the funds were obtained by subscription. 
 
 The records of the late Librarian and Cabinet 
 Keeper abound with evidences of great efforts on 
 the part of the Plymouth ladies, at various times, in 
 procuring means to aid the Society in promoting its 
 objects. Besides the subscriptions obtained in Ply- 
 mouth, Boston and other places, by means of which 
 the Hall was originally built, donations have been 
 received from the heirs of the late Samuel Davis 
 Esq. of the lot on which the Hall stands ; from the 
 
234 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 late Dr. Nathaniel Lothrop the sum of $500, and the 
 late Miss Rebecca Frazier, of Duxbnry, $500, which 
 last bequest was specially to be applied for the pur- 
 pose of procuring appropriate paintings. 
 
 Pilgrim Hall. The corner stone, containing his- 
 torical inscriptions, was laid Sept. 1, 1824, with 
 religious ceremonies. This monumental edifice is 
 situated on Court street, it is seventy by forty feet, 
 constructed of tin wrought split granite in a plain and 
 substantial mode of architecture, contains a dining 
 room on the basement, and a spacious hall above. 
 The ground on which it stands was a part of the 
 extensive estate of Mr. Thomas Southworth in 16G8, 
 and is probably comprised within the 'four acres 
 given him by his mother, Mrs. Alice Bradford,' the 
 relict of Gov. Bradford. When Plymouth was first 
 planted, there was a north and a south common field 
 for tillage for several years, on either side the town 
 near the shore. This falls within the 'north field,' 
 and probably within the stockade and palisadoes of 
 nearly half a mile in compass. Just below it, abutting 
 on ' the shore were the six acre brick kiln field ' of the 
 first planters. The eastern prospect from it is inter- 
 esting, bringing into view the harbor, the near shores 
 of Duxbnry and Marshfield, the highlands of Mano- 
 met, the ocean, and occasionally in the summer, the 
 looming cliffs of Cape Cod — the first resting place 
 of the pilgrims. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 235 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 Genealogy of the Pilgrims — Table of Longevity — 
 Closing Remarks on the Pilgrims. 
 
 The following genealogical tables are all that the 
 remaining pages of this work will admit ; which have 
 been carefully revised by a valuable antiquarian 
 friend, Nathaniel B. ShurtlefF, M. D., whose aid in 
 this part of the work is gratefully acknowledged. 
 
 JOHN CARVER was the first Governor of Plymouth and 
 stands at the head of those who signed the Compact on board 
 the Mayflower in 1620. He had previously been an active and 
 efficient agent of the Leyden church, in the various and difficult 
 negotiations which preceded the embarkation of the Pilgrims for 
 America. He was suddenly seized, while laboring in the field, with 
 a violent pain in the head, by some supposed to have been caused 
 by what is called a stroke of the sun, and died April 5th, 1621. His 
 wife died about six weeks after. His family on their arrival in 
 1620 consisted of eight persons, including John Howland and his 
 wife Elizabeth and perhaps one or more children, and Jasper, the boy 
 of Gov. Carver, who died Dec. 6, 1620. The name of Carver does 
 not appear in the division of land in 1 623, or the division of cattle in 
 1627. It is still difficult to make out the number of eight in Gov. 
 Carver's family, without presuming (as is suggested by Dr. Shurt- 
 lefF) that Henry Samson and Humility Cooper, who came in the 
 Mayflower and have no places assigned to them, were of that 
 number. Judge Mitchell says, in his History of Bridgewater, ' A 
 family however, of this name, was in Marshfield ever after 1638; 
 at which date Robert Carver had a grant of land at Green's harbor, 
 
236 
 
 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 and died there 1680, aged 86. John Carver (son of Robert, perhaps) 
 d. in Marshfield 1679, ae. 42, leaving a widow Milicent, who was 
 daughter of William Ford, and eight children. William Carver, 
 eldest son of John, died at Marshfield 1760, ae. 102, and is noticed 
 by Gov. Hutchinson and Dr. Belknap, in the Biography of Gov. 
 Carver, as the grandson of the Governor ; but in Pemberton's Ms. 
 Journal, in the library of the Mass. Historical Society, he is called 
 the nephew of Gov. Carver.' Joshua Carver, late of Marshfield, 
 aged over 90, was of the same family. John Carver (son of John 
 probably) lived in Plymouth, went from Marshfield 1680, m. Mary, 
 daughter of Jonathan Barnes ; and his son deacon Josiah, d. in 
 Plymouth 1751, ae. 63. Many of the name still live in the town 
 and county of Plymouth.' 
 
 ROBERT CUSHMAN. Mr. Cushman was a member of the 
 Leyden Church, and was twice appointed as their agent to negotiate 
 with the Virginia company, ' and see if the King would give them 
 liberty of conscience there,' under the royal seal ; — and a third time 
 was sent to England from Leyden, to receive money of the mer- 
 chant adventurers of London, previous to the embarkation from 
 Holland, and to provide for the voyage to New England ; which he 
 did by procuring the Mayflower and Mr. Clark, the pilot. Perhaps 
 no individual of the Church possessed in a higher degree the qual- 
 ifications required for discharging the important duties incident to 
 the trust assigned him. He embarked in the Mayflower, from 
 Southampton, in company with the Speedwell, which last vessel, 
 after proceeding some leagues to sea, received so much injury, that 
 both ships were compelled to return. Mr. Cushman remained in 
 England to keep together those that were left behind, owing to the 
 accident to the smaller vessel; and afterwards in 1621 came over in 
 the Fortune. 
 
 He brought with him his only son, Thomas, then 14 years of age. 
 He returned to England on business of the Colony, in the Fortune, 
 Dec. 10, 1621, and never afterwards visited the country. He was 
 actively engaged in promoting the interests of the colony, particu- 
 larly in relation to the discontent which was soon manifested among 
 the merchant adventurers. His correspondence with Gov. Bradford 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 237 
 
 indicates his ability, and his efforts contributed largely to the 
 arrangements which eventually dissolved the perplexing connection 
 between them and the pilgrims. While in Plymouth he delivered 
 a sermon on the duties of self-denial — the first ever printed of 
 those delivered in New England. He died in the year 1626, an 
 event deeply lamented at the time, — an irreparable loss to the 
 colony ; which event is thus mentioned by Gov. Bradford : ' Our 
 captain also brings us notice of the death of our ancient friend, Mr. 
 Cushman, who was our right hand with the adventurers, and for 
 divers years has managed all our business with them to our great 
 advantage.' 
 
 His son Thomas was educated by Gov. Bradford, and was chosen 
 Elder of the Church, on the death of Elder Brewster, and was 
 ordained to that office April 6, 1649. He married Mary Allerton, 
 daughter of Isaac Allerton, and died Dec. 11th, 1691, aged 84. 
 
 His children, as shown by his will and otherwise, were Thomas, 
 Isaac, Elkanah, Fear, Eleazer, Sarah Hook, and Mary Harlow. 
 Isaac was settled in the ministry at Plympton, October 27th, 1698. 
 
 WILLIAM BRADFORD, (Gov.) b. 1588 at *Austerfield in 
 England, came to N. England, with his wife Dorothy, in the May- 
 flower. She was the daughter of Mr. May, and was drowned 
 at Cape Cod Harbor, Dec. 7, 1620. He married August 14, 1623, 
 his 2d wife. Mrs. Alice Southworth, a woman of great worth, the 
 widow of Constant Southworth, of England, and daughter of Mr. 
 Carpenter. She died March 26, 1670, aged about 80. He died 
 May 9th, 1657, in his 69th year. 
 
 By his 1st wife he had John, born in England, who married Mar- 
 tha Bourne, daughter of Thomas and Anne, of Marshfield, and 
 died without issue at Norwich, Conn., in 1678. Martha, the widow, 
 married Lt. Thomas Tracy, and died in 1689. 
 
 By his 2d wife he had William, the major, b. June 17, 1624; Mercy, 
 who m. Benjamin Vermayes Dec. 21, 1648 ; and Joseph, b. 1630. 
 
 William Bradford, Jr., (major and deputy Governor,) was son of 
 the governor, and m. 1st Alice Richards, of Weymouth, and had 
 
 * In previous histories this name has been spelt Ansterfield. 
 
 20* 
 
233 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 John, b. Feb. 20, 1652-3, d. 1736, m. Mercy Warren, ( (laugh, of Jo- 
 seph and Priscilla,) in 1674; she b. Sept. 23, 1653, and d. 
 1748. 
 William, b. March 11, 1654-5, d. 1687, m. Rebecca Bartlett, (daugh. 
 of Benj.) in 1679. 
 
 Thomas, lived at Norwich. 
 
 Samuel, b. 1668, d. 1714, m. Hannah Rogers. 
 
 Alice, m. Major James Fitch of Norwich. 
 
 Hannah, m. Joshua Ripley of Hingham, Nov. 28, 
 
 1682. They had two children, and then removed to Con- 
 necticut. 
 
 Mercy, m. Steel of Hartford. 
 
 Melatiah, m. John Steel of Norwich. 
 
 Mary, 
 
 Sarah, 
 Alice, his 1st wife, died Dec. 12, 1671, aged about 44, and he 
 
 married for his 2d wife Mrs. Mary Holmes, widow of Rev. John, of 
 
 Duxbury, and daughter of John Wood alias Attwood of Plymouth. 
 
 By her he had 
 
 Israel, m. Sarah Bartlett, (daughter of Benj. Jr.) 
 
 David, d. 1730, m. Elizabeth Finney in 1714. 
 
 SS, } Hved in Kingston. 
 
 Mary, his 2d wife, died ; and he m. for 3d wife Mrs. Wiswell, a 
 widow, and had a son, Joseph. 
 
 The Deputy Governor died Feb. 20, 1703-4, aged 79. 
 
 Joseph Bradford, (son of the Gov.) b. 1630, m. Jael Hobart, 
 daugh. of Rev. Peter of Hingham, May 25, 1664, and had Joseph 
 and Elisha. 
 
 He died in 1715, aged 84 ; and his wife in 1730, aged 88. 
 
 GOV. EDWARD WINSLOW was the son of Edward 
 Winslow, of Droitwich and Kempsey, in the County of Worcester, 
 England, by Magdalen his second wife, and was born in 1595. He 
 joined the Pilgrims at Ley den a few years previous to their embar- 
 kation for America, and perhaps no individual of the number 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 239 
 
 contributed more largely to the establishment and success of the 
 Old Colony. 
 
 He visited England in the year 1624, and on his return brought 
 the first cattle into New England, which were committed to him 
 and Mr. Allerton to sell for the company. He possessed great 
 influence at the court of Cromwell, and at various periods was 
 instrumental in defending both the colonies of Plymouth and Mas- 
 sachusetts against the misrepresentations of their enemies. He 
 removed to Marshfield early, not far from 1637, and built a house 
 which stood in a northeasterly direction, not far from the present 
 Winslow House. The Winslow house still standing is probably 
 about 150 years old, and is said to have been built by Hon. Isaac 
 Winslow. Gov. Winslow's place of residence was called Careswell, 
 named from a family seat of his ancestors in England. Gov. Wins- 
 low was highly esteemed at the court of Cromwell, and was 
 appointed by him one of three Commissioners of arbitration, 
 between the English nation and the United Provinces. 
 
 His first wife to whom he was married a short time before the 
 embarkation at Delfthaven, was named Elizabeth. She died March 
 24th, 1621. His second wife was Susanna, the widow of William 
 White, to whom he was married May 12, 1621, which was the first 
 marriage in New England. His children were 1st, Edward ; 2d, 
 John; both of whom died young; 3d, Josiah, born in 1628; 4th, 
 Elizabeth. His son, Gov. Josiah Winslow, m. Penelope Pelham, a 
 daughter of Herbert Pelham, in 1657. Elizabeth m. 1st, John 
 Brooke,* and 2dly, George Curwin. The children of Gov. Josiah 
 Winslow who survived him were Elizabeth, b. in 1664, and Isaac, b. 
 in 1670. He died 1680, aged 52, and his wife in 1703. Elizabeth 
 m. Sarah Burton, and Isaac t m. Sarah, daughter of John Wensley, 
 in 1700, and died in 1738, aged 68, and his wife in 1753, aged 80. 
 
 * Corrected from Gilbert Brookes, on authority of Mr. Shattuck. 
 
 t The following remarks respecting him, were copied from an Almanac 
 which belonged to the Rev. Daniel Lewis of Pembroke. < 1738, Dec. 7th. In 
 the Evening dyed at his seat in Marshfield the Hon. Col. Isaac Winslow, 
 Esq. in the year of his age. He was every way a gentleman ; easie of 
 
 access, facetious, generous, of good natural powers, universally beloved. 
 As to stature, h« was tall and pr«tty gross, of a noble aspect.' 
 
240 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Their son, Gen. John Winslow, born in 1703, m. Mary Little in 
 1726, and had Pelham, b. in 1737, and Isaac, b. 1739. He died in 
 1774, aged 71. His son, Pelham, graduated at Harvard College in 
 1753. He married Joanna, daughter of Gideon White. He died at 
 Long Island, New York, aged 45, leaving two daughters, Mary, who 
 married the late Henry Warren, Esq. and Joanna, who m. Dr. 
 Nathan Hayward, late sheriff of Plymouth County. 
 
 Dr. Isaac, the second son of Gen. John Winslow, married a 
 daughter of Dr. Charles Stockbridge of Scituate, and d. in 1819, 
 aged 80 years. He had a son John, b. in 1774, who died at Natchez 
 in 1822, aged 48. The only surviving son of John is Isaac Winslow 
 of Boston. He is the only male descendant of Gov. Edward Wins- 
 low, who bears the family name in New England. 
 
 JOHN WINSLOW was the brother of Edward, and came in 
 the Fortune Nov. 1621. He was b. in England in 1597, and d. 
 1674. He lived in Plymouth till about the year 1657 at Plain 
 Dealing, about two miles from town, when he removed to Boston. 
 He was frequently employed in the early transactions of the 
 town, as appears from the records. While an inhabitant of Boston 
 he lived and died in Spring Lane. His house stood at the comer of 
 Devonshire Street, on the same land now occupied by Minot's 
 Building. He married Mary Chilton before 1627, daughter of 
 James Chilton, who came in the Mayflower and died the first winter. 
 She died at Boston in 1679. His children were 1st, John, who 
 married Elizabeth, and then Judith, and died in 1683. 2d, Susanna, 
 who m. Robert Latham of Bridgewater, about 1649, and died 
 before 1683. 3d, Mary, b. 1630, d. 1663, m. Edward Gray of 
 Plymouth Jan. 16, 1650-1. 4th, Sarah, who m. Miles Standish, son 
 of Captain Standish, 1660, Tobias Paine in 1665, and afterwards 
 Richard Middlecott, and d. 1726. 5th, Edward, b. 1634, d. 1682, 
 m. 1st, Sarah Hilton of Plymouth, 2d, Elizabeth Hutchinson of 
 Boston, granddaughter of the celebrated Ann Hutchinson. 6th, 
 Joseph, d. 1679, m. Sarah. 7th, Samuel, b. 1641, d. 1680, m. 
 Hannah, daughter of Walter Briggs. 8th, Isaac, born 1644, d. 1670, 
 m. Mary Nowell, 1666. 9th, Benjamin ; b. 1653, d. between 1673 
 and 1676, and probably never married. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 241 
 
 KENELM WTNSLOW, (brother of Gov. Edw.) He m. Eleanor, 
 widow of John Adams, in 1634. His children were Kenelm, Na- 
 thaniel, Job, and Eleanor. He was b. in 1599, and d. 1672. 
 
 JOSIAS WINSLOW, (brother of Gov. Edw.) was b. in 1605, d. 
 in 1674. He m. Margaret, daughter of Thomas Bourne, and had 
 Elizabeth, Jonathan, Mary, Rebecca, Hannah, and Margaret. 
 
 GILBERT WINSLOW, another brother, came in the May- 
 flower, was born 1600, and died out of the Colony, probably never 
 having been married. 
 
 ELDER WM. BREWSTER came in the Mayflower with his 
 wife, his sons Love and Wrestling, daughter in law Lucretia, (wife 
 of Jonathan.) and grandson William, (son of Jonathan.) He was 
 born in 1559 or 1560, and died April 16, 1644, and had three sons, 
 1st, Jonathan, 2d, Love, 3d, Wrestling, and two daughters, Fear 
 and Patience. 
 
 Wrestling died before his father, and without evidence of having 
 been married. 
 
 Jonathan had a wife Lucretia, and four children, William, Mary, 
 Jonathan, and Benjamin ; the eldest born in England. He moved 
 from Duxbury to Norwich, Conn, after 1648 with his wife and sons. 
 William the eldest was in the Indian wars in 1645. His daughter 
 Mary married John Turner of Scituate, Nov. 12, 1645. His son 
 Jonathan was bom about 1627. Benjamin married Anna Dart in 
 1659 at New London, and had Anna, b. Sept. 1662, Jonathan, 1664, 
 Daniel, 1667, William, 1669, and Benjamin, 1673. 
 
 Love, son of the elder, m. Sarah Collier (daughter of William) 
 May 15, 1634, and d. in 1650. He had Sarah, who m. Benjamin 
 Bartlett in 1656 ; Nathaniel, who d. 1676 ; William, who m. Lydia 
 Partridge and d. Nov. 3, 1723 (she d. Feb. 2, 1742) ; Wrestling, who 
 m. Mary, had a family, and d. in 1696. 
 
 Fear m. Isaac Allerton in 1626, and d. 1633. 
 
 Patience m. Gov. Prence, Aug. 5th, 1624, and d. 1634. 
 
 The Brewster family left Plymouth early, and went to Duxbury 
 and afterwards part went to Connecticut. 
 
242 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 ISAAC ALLERTON came over in the Mayflower, 1620, 
 with his wife, Mary, and four children, Bartholomew, Remember, 
 Mary, and Sarah. Mary married Elder Thomas Cushman and died 
 at Plymouth in 1699, above 90 years of age. Her husband died Dec. 
 11, 1691, in his 84th year. Sarah married Mr. Moses Maverick of 
 Marblehead and died before 1656, at Marblehead, and her husband 
 died Jan. 28, 1686, aged 76. Mr. Allerton's 1st wife, Mary, died Feb. 
 25, 1620-1, and he married in 1626 his 2d wife, Fear Brewster, daugh- 
 ter of Elder William Brewster, by whom he had one son, Isaac, who 
 graduated at Harvard College in 1650. Fear Allerton died in 
 1633, and Mr. Allerton married a third wife, named Joanna, who 
 was living in 1684, but by whom he had no children. He died at 
 New Haven in 1659, and must have been over 70 years of age. 
 Mr. Allerton was chosen the first and only assistant to Governor 
 Bradford in 1621, and continued to be elected to that office until 
 1624, when the number was enlarged to five, owing to the greatly 
 increased number of inhabitants of the colony ; he was sent five or 
 more times to England as agent of the colony, and was one of the 
 most enterprising of the pilgrims. He introduced the fisheries in 
 most parts of New England, and was the first individual who met 
 Governor Winthrop on his arrival before he landed, he being on a 
 voyage to Pemaquid. In point of property, he ranked first in the 
 Plymouth colony, paying taxes to the amount of £3 lis when the 
 next in wealth paid £2 5s, and was one of the eight who assumed 
 the company's debts in 1627. He resided at various times at Plym- 
 outh, Salem, Marblehead, New Amsterdam, and New Haven, and 
 had dealings all over New England, Delaware, Virginia, Barbadoes, 
 &c. His liberality was unbounded, as may be inferred from his 
 unwillingness to join in the persecutions against Roger Williams 
 and the Quakers, and from the following extract from the Old 
 Colony Records, p. 43.* Mr. Sherley in a letter to the Governor, 
 
 ♦'1633 decbr. 2d. Whereas Mr. Will. Bradford was appointed in the 
 behalfe of the Court to enter upon the estate of Godbert Godbertson and 
 Zarah his wife, and to discharge the debts of the said Godbert so far as his 
 estate will make good. And whereas the greatest part of his debts are 
 •wing to Mr. Isaack Allerton of Plymouth merchant late brother ©f the said 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 243 
 
 speaking of him, says, 'he hath been a trusty honest friend to you 
 all, either there or here.' 
 
 The descendants of Isaac Allerton are numerous in New Eng- 
 land, though none of them are known to bear his name. 
 
 MYLES STANDISH. The name and deeds of this distinguished 
 individual have often been the subject of consideration in the pre- 
 ceding pages, and it is therefore here proposed only to give some 
 account of his family and descendants. 
 
 His first wife, Eose, fell an early victim to the disease which 
 during the winter of 1620-1 caused such fearful desolation among 
 the Pilgrims. 
 
 His second wife was named Barbara. He removed to Duxbury 
 about the year 1 630, and lived at Captain's hill, which place has 
 ever since borne this name. 
 
 He died there in 1656, aged about 72. His wife survived him, but 
 the exact time of her death is unknown. His children were Alex- 
 ander, Miles, Josiah, Charles, Lora, and John. Lora died before him. 
 
 Alexander was admitted a freeman in 1648, and lived at Captain's 
 Hill in the same house in which his father lived. This house was 
 burnt, the exact time of which occurrence however is not known. 
 He m. first Sarah, the daughter of Hon. John Alden, and had Miles, 
 Ebenezer, born 1672, Lorah, Lydia, Mercy, Sarah, and Elizabeth. 
 Upon the decease of his wife, he m. Desire, widow of Israel Holmes, 
 (her maiden name was Doten,) and had Thomas, Ichabod, and 
 Desire, born in Marshfield, 1689. He died in Duxbury in 1702, and 
 his widow in Marshfield, 1723. 
 
 Miles, 2d son of Capt. Standish, removed to Boston and m. Sarah, 
 daughter of John Winslow, where he died without children. 
 
 Ensign Josiah Standish m. first Mary, dau. of John Dingley, of 
 Marshfield, in 1654, who died the same year. He then m. Sarah, 
 the daughter of Samuel Allen of Brain tree. He removed to Bridge- 
 
 Zarah, the said Isaack hath given free leave to all other his creditors to be 
 fully discharged before he receive anything of his particular debts to himself, 
 desiring rather to lose all than other men should lose any.' 
 
244 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 water, but soon after returned to Duxbury, where he was chosen a 
 Selectman, Deputy, and one of the council of war. He removed to 
 Norwich in Connecticut probably in 1686. His children were Miles, 
 Josiah, Samuel, Israel, Mary, Lois, Mehetabel, Martha, and Mercy. 
 Charles and John, the other sons of Capt. Myles Standish, proba- 
 bly died young, as no account of them appears after their father's 
 decease. 
 
 JOHN ALDEN arrived in the Mayflower in 1620, being then 
 about 22 years of age. He married Priscilla Mullins, the daughter 
 of William Mullins.^ He early removed to Duxbury and built a 
 house near Eagle-tree pond, where the ruins of his well are still to 
 be seen. His farm was one of the best in Duxbury, and still re- 
 mains in the possession of his descendants. His children were 
 John, Joseph, David, Jonathan, Elizabeth, Sarah, Ruth, and Mary. 
 
 John settled in Boston before Dec. 1659, and had a daughter 
 Mary by his first wife Elizabeth. He married for his second wife 
 Elizabeth Everill,t widow of Abiel deceased, April 1st, 1660 by 
 whom he had 12 children, several of whom lived and had issue. 
 He died March 14th, 1702. 
 
 Joseph (2d son of John the pilgrim) was an early settler in 
 Bridgewater. He married Mary, the daughter of Moses Simmons. 
 
 David (the third son) was a representative from Duxbury to the 
 General Court, and in 1690 an assistant. He married Mary, 
 daughter of Constant Southworth, and had issue. 
 
 Jonathan (4th son) inherited the ancient homestead of his father. 
 He married Abigail Ralat Dec. 10th, 1672, by whom he had four 
 sons. He died in Feb. 1697, aged about 70. 
 
 * William Mullins died the spring of 1621. His family consisted of five 
 persons. There exists no account of his wife, or children, excepting Pris- 
 cilla. There was a William Mullins in Duxbury, about 1642 ; but whether 
 a son or not the writer has not been able positively to ascertain, or whether 
 he left any descendants. 
 
 t This name has been usually copied Ewrill. Dr. Shurtleff, who is con- 
 versant with the old records of Boston and the old families, makes the 
 correction. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 245 
 
 Elizabeth, the oldest daughter of John Alden, was the wife 
 of Wm. Paybody, and died at Little Compton, Rhode Island, May 
 31st, 1717, aged 93. 
 
 Sarah m. Alexander Standish ; Ruth m. John Bass of Braintree 5 
 and Mary m. Thomas Delano. 
 
 The subject of this brief notice, was the last survivor of those 
 who signed the Compact on board the Mayflower, and his long and 
 valuable life was distinguished for eminent services rendered to the 
 Colony. He was assistant to ail the governors of Plymouth Col- 
 ony, except Gov. Carver, and occupied that place from the year 1650 
 to 1686. He died Sept. 12th, 1687, aged 88. The time of his 
 wife's decease is not certainly known. That she survived him is 
 probable from the fact that a receipt is recorded, given by the heirs 
 to Jonathan Alden who administered on the estate of his father, to 
 which the name of Priscilla Alden is annexed. As there was no 
 daughter of that name the inference is strong that she was the 
 widow. 
 
 SAMUEL FULLER came in the Mayflower in 1620, and was 
 the first Physician and Surgeon in New England. He rendered 
 important services to the Colony at Salem, both in the line of his 
 profession, and in relation to their spiritual concerns, as appears 
 from a letter of Gov. Endicott, dated May 11th, 1629, to Gov. 
 Bradford, in which he observes, ' I acknowledge myself much 
 bound to you, for your kind love and care in sending Mr. Puller 
 amongst us, and rejoice much that I am by him satisfied touching 
 your judgment of the outward form of God's worship.' He ren- 
 dered similar sendees to the company of Gov. Winthrop soon after 
 their arrival — as appears from his letter to Gov. Bradford dated 
 at Massachusetts, June 28, 1630, at which time they were severely 
 afflicted with sickness. He was deacon of the church in Plymouth 
 till his death, which was sometime between July 30 and October 
 28th, 1633. His will, dated July 30th, and proved Oct. 28th, 1633, 
 is the earliest on record, in which he mentions his wife Bridget, as 
 then being very sick, and his son Samuel and daughter as both 
 quite young. His wife recovered from her sickness and was alive 
 
246 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 in 1664; after which period nothing more has been found respecting 
 her, after diligent enquiry by the writer. Nor has similar enquiry 
 respecting his daughter Mercy proved successful. Samuel, the son, 
 remained in Plymouth till his settlement as the first minister of 
 Middleboro', Dec. 26th, 1694, at which place he had occasionally 
 preached during the 16 preceding years. The following extract is 
 copied from the History of Rehoboth. ' It was voted by the town 
 to send a letter to Samuel Fuller, of Plymouth, that if he will come 
 upon trial according to his own proposition, the town is willing 
 to accept of him ; and in case the town and he do accord, the Town 
 is willing to accomodate him in the best way they can for his en- 
 couragement.' It was also voted and agreed that his mother should 
 be sent for to see if she be willing to come and dwell amongst us, to 
 attend on the office of midwife, to answer the town's necessity, 
 which is great.' These propositions were probably never accepted. 
 He died August 17, 1695, as appears from his grave-stone, in the 
 7lst year of his age. His will was proved October 1st, 1695. He 
 mentions his wife Elizabeth, Samuel as his oldest son, John as his 
 second, and Isaac as his youngest son, under age. His daughters 
 mentioned were, Mercy, wife of Daniel Cole, Experience, the wife of 
 James Wood, Elizabeth, the wife of Samuel Eaton, and Hannah 
 Fuller* 
 
 WILLIAM WHITE. The name of Mr. White is the sixth in 
 order subscribed to the compact. He died in 1621, but his age is not 
 
 * In the Will of Dr. Samuel Fuller various bequests were made as tokens 
 of regard,, among others to Gov. Wimhrop, Endicot and Roger Williams. 
 That to Roger Williams is in these words, ' Also to my son Samuel two 
 acres of land situated and being at Strawberry Hill, if Mr. Roger Williams 
 refuse to accept of them, as formerly he hath done.' The will was recorded 
 by Edward Winslow, while governor of the Colony. Mention is made in 
 the will of his l kinsman Samuel, now living in my house,' and he again calls 
 him cousin, (synonymous with nephew,) from which it is inferred that Ed- 
 ward Fuller, who came in the Mayflower and died the first winter, was the 
 brother of Dr. Fuller, and that Samuel called cousin was the son of Edward, 
 whose family consisted of three persons, as appears from his signature to the 
 Compact. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OP THE PILGRIMS. 247 
 
 mentioned. His wife, Susanna, married Got. Edward "Winslow, 
 May 12th, 1621. His oldest son, Resolved, married Judith, daughter 
 William Vassal, of Scituate, in 1640. Their children were William, 
 b. April 10, 1642. John, March 11, 1644. Samuel, March 13, 1646. 
 Resolved, Nov. 12, 1647. Anna, June 4, 1649. Elizabeth, June 4, 
 1652. Josiah, Sept. 29, 1654. Further information is desirable 
 respecting this family. Judge Mitchell observes that Resolved 
 White continued in Marshfield till 1670, at which time he appears 
 to have emigrated to some other part of New England.' His wife 
 died about this time as appears from the Marshfield records. The 
 last notice of him we have seen on record is found in Gov. Josiah 
 Winslow's will, dated in 1675, where he is named as brother, with a 
 bequest. 
 
 Peregrine White received his name from the circumstance of his 
 birth on board the Mayflower, in Cape Cod harbor, the latter part of 
 Nov. 1620, the first one bom of English parents in New England. 
 He removed to Marshfield with the family of Gov. Edward Winslow, 
 probably about the year 1636. 
 
 He married Sarah, the daughter of William Bassett, who then 
 lived in Duxbury, but afterwards moved to Bridgewater, and died in 
 1667. His children were Daniel, Sylvanus, who died in 1688, Jona- 
 than, Peregrine, Sarah, and Mercy. He died July 20th, 1704, aged 
 83 years and 8 months, and his wife in 1711. The Boston News 
 Letter of July 31st, 1704, the 15th number of the first newspaper 
 printed in New England, contains the following intelligence. 
 ' Marshfield, July 22d. Capt. Peregrine White, of this town, aged 
 83 years and eight months, died here the 20th ins.t. He was vigo- 
 rous and of a comely aspect to the last.' In Oct. 1665, as appears 
 in the Old Colony Records, the Court granted him 200 acres of land, 
 in compliance with the request of the king's commissioners, desiring, 
 ' that the court would accommodate him with a portion of land, in re- 
 spect that he was the first of the English that was born in these parts.' 
 He was admitted a member of the Rev. Mr. Thompson's church, 
 1698, in his 78th year, on which occasion a sermon was delivered 
 from the text, Matthew, 20th chap. 6th and 7th verses. 
 
 The following remarks are from an obliging correspondent of 
 
 ■ 
 
248 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Marshfield. 'Peregrine White, according to some accounts, was 
 rather volatile in early life, but I find an entry on the town records 
 somewhat contradicting this statement, which is as follows. Nov. 
 16th, 1651. Voted at town meeting that Peregrine White look to 
 all such persons as are disorderly in the Township and give them 
 warning, and in case they do not redress their course of life, they 
 shall use means to redress such abuses as they find in such persons. 
 The same year he was chosen one of the raters. The same in 1655 
 and 1656. In 1659, deputy to the General Court; in 1660, chosen 
 a grand juryman ; in 1664, selectman; 1672 and 3, selectman; in 
 1675, he was chosen one of the council of war, and is then styled 
 Capt. White. From undisputed tradition, he was very reverential to 
 his mother, making it his practice towards the close of her life, to 
 visit her daily. He rode on horseback, and the color of his horse 
 was black, and the buttons of his coat I have been told were about 
 the size of a Spanish dollar.' 
 
 Daniel White, the son of Peregrine, married Hannah Hunt of 
 Duxbury in 1674. Their children were John, b. 1675, Joseph, b. 
 1678, Thomas 1680, Cornelius 1682, Benjamin 1684, Eleazar 1686, 
 Ebenezer 1691. 
 
 Gideon White was great grandson of Peregrine White. He was 
 the son of Cornelius White, who m. Hannah Barstow, and was 
 born July 19, 1718. He m. Joanna Howland in 1743 and moved to 
 Plymouth and died March 3d, 1769, aged 62. His wife Joanna was 
 great granddaughter of John Howland who arrived in the May- 
 flower. She d. Sept. 23d, 1810, aged 95 years. She was intimately 
 acquainted in the family of Elder Eaunce, and received from him 
 many interesting particulars in relation to the Pilgrims, which she 
 was accustomed to relate with much satisfaction to her numerous 
 family connections and friends. 
 
 Their children were Cornelius, d. 1779; Joanna, m. Pelham 
 Winslow, d. May 2, 1829, aged 85; Hannah and Mary both died 
 unmarried, the former, January 3d, 1843, the latter, Nov. 28, 1838, 
 aged 87 ; Elizabeth m. Hamilton L. Earle Esq. an officer in the 
 British service, and died at Gibralter, at the residence of her son-in- 
 law, Col. Durnford, in 1842. Gideon White, their second son, 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 249 
 
 removed to Shelburne, Nova Scotia, during the revolution, and died 
 in 1829, leaving numerous descendants, at that plaee, and one 
 daughter in Plymouth, Mrs. Joan Davis, the widow of the late Capt. 
 William Davis. The homestead of Peregrine White is still owned 
 by his descendants. 
 
 RICHARD WARREN arrived in the Mayflower, and his family 
 soon after in the Ann. On the occurrence of his death in 1628, the 
 New England's Memorial has the following remarks: 'This year 
 died Mr. Richard Warren, who hath been mentioned before in this 
 book, and was an useful instrument; and during his life bore a deep 
 share in the difficulties and troubles of the first settlement of the 
 plantation of New Plimouth.' His widow Elizabeth died in 1673, 
 aged 93. 
 
 Their children were, Nathaniel, m. Sarah Walker, 1645 ; Joseph m. 
 Priscilla, sister of Elder Faunce, about 1650 ; Mary, m. Robert Bart- 
 lett, 1628; Ann, m. Thomas Little, 1633; Sarah m. John Cooke Jr. 
 1634 ; Elizabeth m. Richard Church, the father of Colonel Church, 
 1636; Abigail m. Anthony Snow of Marshfield, 1639. 
 
 JOHN HOWLAND arrived in the Mayflower in 1620, being 
 then 28 years old, and was included in the family of Gov. Carver, 
 whose daughter Elizabeth he married, but at what time does not 
 appear on record. In the assignment of land in 1 623 he had four 
 acres, and he then probably had two children, John and Desire, 
 which with himself and wife would correspond with the number of 
 acres above mentioned. In the division of cattle (1627), the names 
 of John and Desire are both mentioned. It therefore seems prob- 
 able that one or both of these children arrived with their parents in 
 the Mayflower. The number of Gov. Carver's family was eight, 
 and without including one of the children of Howland, it is difficult 
 to make out that number. 
 
 Mr. Howland was distinguished for his devotion to the interests 
 of the Colony, both in relation to its civil and religious institutions. 
 He was an assistant for many years. 
 
 He lived in Summer street, and afterwards removed to Rockey 
 Nook where he died in 1673, aged 80. His house stood north of 
 
250 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 the house of the late Hezekiah Ripley, deceased, where the remains 
 of his cellar are still visible. In the colony records his death is 
 mentioned, with the remark, ' he was a godly man and an ancient 
 professor in the ways of Christ, and proved a useful instrument of 
 good in his place. 
 
 The names of his children are mentioned in his will as follows, 
 viz: 
 
 Desire Gorham, Hope Chipman, Elizabeth Dickerson, Lydia 
 Brown, Hannah Bosworth, Ruth Cushman. 
 
 John Howland ,* his oldest son, m. Mary Lee and settled in 
 Barnstable. 
 
 Jabez, his 2d son, m. Bethiah Thacher, and finally settled in 
 Bristol, Rhode Island. 
 
 Isaac, who m. Elizabeth, daughter of George Vaughan, and set- 
 tled in Middleboro'. 
 
 Joseph, the youngest son, m. Elizabeth Southworth only daughter 
 of Thomas Southworth, 1664. 
 
 STEPHEN HOPKINS arrived in the Mayflower, and was 
 prominently engaged in most of the arduous enterprises of the Pil- 
 grims, from their arrival at Cape Cod, till his death. He was much 
 employed in public affairs, and was an assistant from 1633 to 1636. 
 He died in 1644, and from his will it appears that his wife Elizabeth 
 was not living. His oldest son, named ' heir apparent,' in the will, 
 was Caleb. If ever married, he probably left no children, as his 
 brother Gyles, by deed conveyed land which was inherited by him 
 from Stephen, the father. Gyles lived in Yarmouth, and m. Cath- 
 erine Wheldon, Oct., 1639, and had a son Stephen, to whom a legacy 
 was given in the will, and who settled in Eastham. 
 
 * It seems probable tbat John Howland, Jr. lived in Marshfield a short time 
 before he settled at Barnstable. The following extract is taken from the 
 Marshfield Records. ' 1659. John Howland jur. pay for his horse, formerly 
 of this Town. May 17, 1655, Elizabeth, daughter of John Howland, born.' 
 The only family of Howland then living at Marshfield, was that of Arthur 
 Howland, who had no son named John. This is confirmed by another cir- 
 cumstance. John Howland Senior of Plymouth owned land in Marshfield, 
 which he exchanged for land at Barnstable. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 251 
 
 The daughters named in the will were, 1st, Constance, who m. 
 Nicholas Snow, and died at Eastham, in 1676. He died in 1671. 
 2d, Deborah, who m. Andrew Ring, in 1646. 3d, Damaris, who m. 
 Jacob Cook, 1646. 4th, Ruth Hopkins. 5th, Elizabeth, who died 
 unmarried about 1 666. * Oceanus, bprn at sea, died early. 
 
 The Inventory of Stephen Hopkins contains the first horse on 
 record, appraised at 6 pounds. His stock of cattle consisted of 13 
 in number, some of which were in the keeping of Gyles, his son, at 
 Yarmouth. Cows valued in the Inventory at £5 10s. Yoke of 
 oxen £15. 
 
 JAMES CHILTON and his wife came in the Mayflower with 
 their daughter Mary, who m. John Winslow (brother of the Gov.) 
 before 1627. Mr. Chilton died Dec. 8, 1620, and his wife soon after. 
 Mary Winslow died 1679 at Boston, and her husband d. at Boston, 
 1674. 
 
 Mrs. ALICE SOUTHWORTH, widow of Constant, and daugh- 
 ter of Mr. Carpenter, after the death of her husband came to 
 New England in 1623 in the ship Ann, and married Gov. Bradford 
 Aug. 14th, 1624, and was the mother of all his children who left 
 posterity, viz. William 2d, Mercy and Joseph. She survived her 
 second husband, and her death is thus recorded in the Old Colony 
 Records: 'On the 26th day of March, 1670, Mistris Allice Bradford 
 seni'r changed this life for a better, haueing attained to fourscore 
 yeares of age or therebouts. Shee was a godly matron ; and much 
 loued while shee lined and lamented tho' aged when shee died and 
 was honorably enterred on the 29 day of the month aforesaid : att 
 New Plymouth.' She is supposed to have had several sisters in 
 New England ; among whom were Priscilla, who married William 
 Wright, Senior, and afterwards John Cooper in 1634; Mary, 'the 
 godly old maid,' and Bridget, the wife of Samuel Fuller, Senior. 
 
 Mrs. Southworth had two sons, Constant and Thomas, whom 
 she left in England. 
 
 • It will be perceived from the foregoing account, that Dr. Young in his 
 chronicles has omitted the names of several of Stephen Hopkins's children. 
 
252 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Constant, the eldest son, came over in 1628, and probably Thom- 
 as came at the same time. These two youths were educated by 
 Gov. Bradford, and both attained to great distinction in the Colonial 
 government. Constant was an assistant and treasurer 16 years. 
 Thomas was an assistant and deputy for many years. 
 
 Constant Southworth married Elizabeth, daughter of William 
 Collier of Duxbury, Nov. 2d, 1637, and had Edward who m. Mary; 
 Lieut. Nathaniel, born in 1648, who m. Desire, daughter of Edward 
 Gray, Jan. 10, 1671-2, and died in Middleboro, Jan. 14, 1710-11 ; 
 Mercy, who m. Samuel Freeman ; Alice, who m. Capt. Benj. Church ; 
 Mary, who m. David Alden ; Elizabeth, who m. William Eobes ; 
 Priscilla; and William of Little Compton and Tiverton. Mr. 
 Southworth died March 11th, 1678-9 while Treasurer of the Colo- 
 ny. From him are descended all of this family in New England. 
 
 Captain Thomas Southworth married Elizabeth, the daughter of 
 Kev. John Reynor, Sept. 1st, 1641, and died Dec. 8th, 1669, aged 
 53 years, leaving an only child, Elizabeth, the wife of Joseph How- 
 land. 
 
 This family was noted for warlike attainments, nearly all the 
 males, as also the husbands of the females, being officers in the wars 
 with the Indians. 
 
 NATHANIEL MORTON was the son of George Morton ; who 
 came in the Ann in 1623, and whose wife was the sister of Gov. 
 Bradford, and who died in 1624, leaving Nathaniel, John, Patience, 
 Ephraim, and Sarah. Patience m. John Faunce, father of Elder 
 Thomas Faunce; Sarah m. George Bonum, in 1644. 
 
 Nathaniel was the distinguished and highly esteemed Secretary of 
 the Colony from the year 1645 to the time of his death in 1685. 
 He was also Secretary of the United Colonies, and the compiler of 
 the valuable Church Records now in existence, from the origin of 
 the Leyden Church, and author of the New England Memorial, and 
 the Old Colony Records show the extent of his great industry. He 
 m. Lydia Cooper, 1635, who died 1673, and he afterwards m. Ann 
 Templar, 1674. His children were six daughters, viz. Remember, b. in 
 1637, m. Abraham Jackson, 1657 ; Mercy m. Joseph Dunham, 1657 ; 
 
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RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 253 
 
 Joanna m. Joseph Prince, of Hull, 1670; Lydia m. George Ellison ; 
 Elizabeth m. Nathaniel Bosworth, of Hull, 1670; and Hannah m. 
 Benjamin Bosworth, 1666. He died June 29, 1685, aged 73. 
 
 Secretary Morton lived first on the south side of Wellingsly 
 Brook, and afterwards removed to the place now occupied by Capt. 
 Allen. 
 
 ROBERT BARTLETT came to Plymouth in the Ann in the 
 year 1623. He was born in England in 1603, and married in 1628 
 Mary Warren, (daughter of Richard and Elizabeth Warren.) He 
 died in 1676, and his wife a few years afterwards. 
 
 Their children were, 
 
 Bcnja m i„, died ■691, ,„an-ied { £*»* B ~, J«£ 
 
 Joseph, b. 1638, d. 1712, m. Hannah Fallowell, who was b. 1638 
 
 andd. 1710> 
 M . XTV (1st Richard Foster, Sept. 10, 1651, 
 
 * I 2d Jonathan Morey, July 8, 1659. 
 
 Rebecca, m. William Harlow, Dec. 20, 1649. 
 
 Sarah, m. Samuel Rider, of Yarmouth, Dec. 23, 1656. 
 
 Elizabeth, m. Anthony Sprague, of Hingham, Dec. 
 
 26, 1661, and d. Eeb. 7, 1712-13. 
 Mercy, b. March 10, 1750-1, m. John Ivey of Boston, Dec. 25, 1668. 
 
 Lydia, b. June 8, 1647, m. { if ; T T^^/W-^, . , 
 J 1 2d John Nelson of Middleboro'. 
 
 His descendants are very numerous in Plymouth county ; a fur- 
 ther account may be found in Judge Mitchell's History of Bridge- 
 water. 
 
 The following list exhibiting the longevity of some of the first 
 planters of the old colony is mostly copied from the Old Colony 
 and Church Records. 
 
 Those having an asterisk affixed arrived in some one of the first 
 four ships, namely, the Mayflower, Fortune, Ann, or Little James. 
 The rest arrived afterwards, but most of them before the year 1632. 
 21 
 
254 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 • ■•■ • :£ - • ■ ' 
 
 Names. Time of decease. Age. 
 
 * William Brewster, . . . . April 16th, 1G44 80 
 William Thomas* . . . . August, 1651 78 
 
 * Julien Kempton, wid. of Manassah Kempton, Feb. 19, 1664-5 81 
 Gabriel Fallowell, . Dec. 28, 1667 8S 
 John Dunham, (Deacon,) . . . March 2, 1668-9 80 
 
 * Alice Bradford, (wid. of the Gov.) . . March 26, 1670 80 
 *JohnHowland, Feb. 24, 1672-3 80 
 
 * Thomas Prence, March 29, 1673 73 
 
 * Elizabeth Warren, (widow of Richard Warren,) Oct. 2, 1673 90 
 
 Ann Tupper, (Sandwich,) 1675 
 
 Priscilla Cooper, (sister of Gov. Bradford's wife Alice,) 1679 91 
 
 Dorothy Brown, (Swanzey,) 1675 90 
 
 * Edward Bangs, 1678 86 
 
 Phineas Pratt, April 19, 1680 90 
 
 * Nathaniel Morton, (Secretary,) . . . June 29, 1685 73 
 Robert Einney, (Deacon,) .... Jan. 7, 1687 80 
 Mary Carpenter, (sister to Gov. Bradford's wife,) . 1683 90 
 *JohnAlden, Sept. 12, 1687 89 
 
 * Experience Mitchell, 1689 80 
 
 * Thomas Cushman, (Elder,) ... Dec. 10, 1691 84 
 John Dunham, (son of the Deacon,) . . . 1692 79 
 Anna Lettice, (wid. of Thomas Lettice,) . July 3, 1687 81 
 
 * Elizabeth Howland, (wife of John Howland) . 1687 81 
 
 Samuel Eddy, (Swanzey,) 1688 1 81 
 
 George Watson,. Jan. 31, 1688 87 
 
 Andrew Ring, 1692 75 
 
 * The following is copied from the grave stone of William Thomas, Esq., 
 in the old burial ground at Marshfield, and is, we believe the oldest grave 
 stone in the Old Colony. 
 
 Here lies what remains of William Thomas, Esq., one of the founders of 
 New- Ply mouth. Colony, who died in ye month of August, 1651, about ye 
 78th year of his age. 
 
 The grave stone of Nathaniel Thomas, his son, is also still legible, who 
 died the 13th of Feb. 1674, about the 68th year of his age. 
 
 t It is doubtful from the record whether this should be SI or 87. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 255 
 
 * Mary Cushman, (widow of the Elder,) . . . 1690 90 
 
 * Thomas Clark, (supposed mate of the Mayflower,) . 1697 98 
 Elizabeth Edey, (Swazcy,) .... May 24, 1689 82 
 Richard Wright, • • . . . ■ June 9, 1691 83 
 
 Patience Whitney, (widow,) 1692 77 
 
 George Bonum, April 28, 1704 95 
 
 Samuel King, < * August, 1705 90 
 
 James Cole, 1709 85 
 
 John Done, (Deacon, Eastham,) . . . . 1707 110 
 
 Note. In the next generation, many instances of longevity 
 might be collected. Elder Thomas Faunce died in 1745, aged 99 
 years. His daughter, Patience Kempton, died at New Bedford, in 
 1779, aged 105 years and six months. Ephraim Pratt, grandson of 
 Joshua Pratt, one of the first comers at Plymouth, died at Shutes- 
 bury, Worcester county, in 1804, aged 116. Ebenezer Cobb was 
 born in Plymouth and died at Kingston, in 1801, aged 107 years, 
 and was of the third generation. John Alden, a descendant of John 
 Alden who came in the Mayflower, died in Middleborough in 1821, 
 aged 102. Three of his children, two daughters and one son, are 
 now living and dwell under the same roof in Middleborough, whose 
 average age is 84 1-3 years. 
 
 Widow Abigail Bryant died in Plympton, Feb. 21, 1821, aged 99 
 years, six months, and ten days. 
 
 CLOSING REMARKS ON THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 4 
 
 Iii preparing the foregoing pages for publication, 
 the writer has earnestly sought to present a just and 
 true account of the motives, character, and conduct 
 of the Pilgrims ; not, however, without a conscious- 
 
256 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 ness that the estimate formed of their claims to the 
 veneration and gratitude of the present age, will by 
 many be regarded as far exceeding the merits to 
 which they are justly entitled. 
 
 The cry of intolerance, persecution, and injustice 
 towards the natives, hastily assumed, and framed 
 into serious charges against them, is often deemed of 
 sufficient weight to overbalance other considerations 
 challenging in their behalf our unqualified admiration. 
 It is not difficult to trace the origin of these charges 
 to the same spirit and source which originally drove 
 them into banishment, which could not rest satisfied 
 with this measure of punishment without the attempt 
 to impugn their motives, detract from their worth, and 
 misrepresent their conduct. The fearless spirits, who 
 at so early a period, dared to array themselves in 
 open opposition to the unjust assumptions, both of the 
 hierarchy and throne of England, could not fail to 
 incur their unrelenting hostility. 
 
 But whatever opinions may be entertained on these 
 points, whether the charges alleged rest upon any 
 just grounds or not, it will hardly be denied that the 
 Pilgrims accomplished a vast work. While it would 
 doubtless be unwise to claim for them an exemption 
 from the common infirmities of our nature, the oppo- 
 site extreme which- withholds a just recognition of 
 their high achievements is liable to far greater con- 
 demnation. 
 
 It may well deserve our attention, to consider what 
 might have been the condition of this country at the 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 257 
 
 present moment, had their perilous enterprise failed 
 of success. Nearly ten years elapsed, after the land- 
 ing at Plymouth, before any other colony ventured to 
 follow in their footsteps, and had their enterprise 
 proved abortive, a much longer period, according to 
 any just calculation of probabilities, would have 
 intervened, before the discouragements occasioned 
 by successive defeats in the attempts at colonization 
 would have been sufficiently overcome, to justify in 
 the estimation of common prudence, a similar effort. 
 France, at quite an early period, had, with laudable 
 enterprise, explored our northern and western bound- 
 aries, and conceived the purpose of establishing a 
 connected chain of fortified posts, designed eventu- 
 ally to control the destiny of North America. Who 
 may not discern, in the early settlement of New 
 England, the only effectual barrier to the execution 
 of this magnificent project of the French nation ? In 
 point of fact, the contest for supremacy, between 
 England and France, was long and earnest, and at 
 one time it became extremely doubtful which of these 
 great rivals of empire would ultimately prevaii, not- 
 withstanding the superiority of colonial strength 
 possessed by the former power. New England 
 enterprise and courage at last determined this doubt- 
 ful but all-important question, and history, faithful to 
 its trust, in recording the chivalrous reduction of 
 Louisburg, and other colonial achievements, will 
 award the claims of justice, while it utters only the 
 declarations of truth. 
 
258 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 The intrepid pioneers, therefore, by whose instru- 
 mentality the great question as to what nation of 
 Europe should predominate in North America, justly 
 deserve to be held in grateful remembrance on both 
 sides of the Atlantic. Who does not rejoice that the 
 English tongue has become the universal language 
 of more than twenty millions of people, and that our 
 institutions, which received their germ from the best 
 examples of Europe, moulded and improved by the 
 successive application of sound principles, aiming to 
 promote the general welfare, and grown into a wider 
 expansion, both of civil and religious liberty, are the 
 invaluable, undisputed inheritance of our land ? ! By 
 their fruits ye shall know them. Not by the graceful 
 foliage which dallies with the summer's breeze; — 
 not by the flower which fades with the perfume 
 which it scatters on the gale; — but by the golden 
 perfect fruit, in which the mysterious life of the plant 
 is garnered up ; — which the genial earth and kindling 
 sun have ripened into the refreshment and food of 
 man, and which, even when it perishes, leaves 
 behind it the germs of continued and multiplied 
 existence.' 
 
 Note. Without intending- to justify intolerance in any form, 
 whether of ancient or modern date, it may be remarked, that much of 
 what is charged upon the Fathers as such, resulted from their expo- 
 sure to the designs often manifested by their enemies at home and 
 abroad, to overthrow both their civil and religious institutions, which it 
 had cost them so much labor and hazard to establish, and which owed 
 their final preservation, to a wonderful prudence and persevering vig- 
 ilance, defeating not only the purposes of faction, but the assumptions 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 259 
 
 of royal authority. The undue restriction of individual freedom seems 
 to have been the incident rather than the aim, of their policy. 
 
 With respect to the charge of injustice towards the Indian race, we 
 quote the remarks of James Otis to Gov. Barnard in 17G7 — ' The In- 
 dians had perfect confidence in our Fathers, and applied to them in all 
 their difficulties. Nothing has been omitted which justice or humanity 
 required. We glory in their conduct ; we boast of it as unexampled.' 
 
 -*:.*f*M^ * - • ' 
 
260 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 Description of Plymouth. 
 
 1 They sounded the harhor, and found it fit for shipping, and march- 
 ed into the land and found divers corn fields, and little running brooks, 
 a place as they supposed, fit for situation.' Morton. 
 
 Plymouth is situated in north latitude (at the 
 Court House.) 41 c , 57', 6". Longitude from Green- 
 wich 70°, 30', 54". 
 
 Its Indian name was Umpame, written Apaum in 
 the Colony Records, and still so called by the na- 
 tives of Massapee. It was also called Patuxet. 
 
 Bounds. The bounds of Plymouth were deter- 
 mined by the Colony Court, in the year 1640, of 
 which the following is a description : 
 
 1 It is enacted and concluded by the Court, that 
 the bounds of Plymouth township shall extend south- 
 ward to the bounds of Sandwich township; and 
 northward to a little brook, running from Stephen 
 Tracy's to another little brook falling into Blackwa- 
 ter; from the commons left to Duxbury, and the 
 neighborhood thereabout; and westward eight miles 
 up into the land, from any part of the bay or sea ; al- 
 ways provided that the bounds shall extend so far up 
 

 RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 261 
 
 into the wood lands, as to include the south meadows 
 towards Agawara, lately discovered, and the conven- 
 ient uplands thereabout.' 
 
 These bounds were quite extensive comprising 
 what have since become Plympton, in 1707, Kings- 
 ton in 1726, and part of Wareham, with Carver taken 
 from Plympton and a part of Halifax in 1734, also 
 taken from Plympton. It is about 16 miles in extent 
 from north to south, and varies from four and a half 
 to nine in width. 
 
 Plymouth is built along the sea shore, upon a mod- 
 erate declivity descending from an extensive pine 
 plain, about one fourth of a mile broad and one half 
 mile in length. 
 
 Face and quality of the soil. The predominant 
 growth of forest trees is Pinus tmda, designating a 
 soil of third rate quality, which covers much the 
 greater part of the township. 
 
 A ridge of elevated pine hills commences at 
 *' Hither Manomet' (so called in the records) with- 
 in its limits on the sea, and terminates at Woods 
 Hole, 27 miles, ranging north and south, through 
 Sandwich, beyond which they assume a rocky and 
 rugged form, near Falmouth. The most elevated 
 height in this ridge is about four miles from the 
 Town House in Plymouth, being three hundred and 
 ninety-six feet in height, presenting an extensive and 
 sublime prospect of ocean scenery. 
 
 * Further Manomet Point, as seen from Sandwich, is a bold fea- 
 ture in prospective, from every part of the Bay. 
 21* 
 
262 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 This elevated ridge separates the first precinct or 
 village of Manomet Ponds from the second and third 
 precincts. It is beautifully situated, commanding a 
 fine view of the bay, and is surrounded by elevated 
 heights, and preserves, perhaps to this day, in its 
 habits and character, as much of the sound principle 
 and primitive simplicity of ancient times, as any part 
 of our country. 
 
 Geology. It is not a little curious that one loose 
 rock on the shore of Plymouth Harbor should have be- 
 come so famous as is that called the * Pilgrim Rock,' 
 where there is not known in the township a single 
 ledge, save those the fisherman reaches with his lead 
 at various points off the coast. All the rocks in place 
 lie buried beneath an unknown thickness of sand, 
 gravel, and clay of the Drift formation. This in 
 many places is at least 200 feet thick, and is proba- 
 bly nowhere less than 40. The nearest ledges that 
 appear are in Kingston, a mile or more over the line; 
 and they are of granite, intersected by narrow Trap- 
 dykes. So regular are some of these dykes, as 
 exposed in the cutting of the Rail Road, that they 
 were believed by many to be some ancient artificial 
 structure. It is probable that this granitic formation 
 extends further south beneath the drift, but from this 
 point to Sandwich and round to the Cape, the writer 
 is not aware that any ledge is met with, 
 
 Spread over the country so extensively, the pecu- 
 liarities of the Drift formation are perhaps nowhere 
 better developed than in this neighborhood. The 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 263 
 
 broken surface of the little hills is the counterpart on 
 a large scale of the chopped and troubled seas that 
 break against their base. No deep seated action has 
 stirred up the mass, and thrown the surface into the 
 regular wave-like ridges of other regions. The pow- 
 er acting on the surface, that brought together and 
 spread these loose materials, has scooped out the 
 hollows between the hills, and made a thousand deep 
 depressions, now occupied by as many lakes and 
 ponds. These, of every variety of form and size lie 
 scattered here and there or grouped together in the 
 pitch pine and scrubby oak woods. Little brooks 
 flowing clearly over their sandy beds, connect one 
 with another, and then find their way to the sea 
 shore. The barrenness of this Geological formation 
 is a surety that the singular and romantic beauty it 
 has given to the environs of Plymouth will not soon 
 be impaired by the clearing of the country. 
 
 The cliffs and promontories along the coast are 
 made up entirely of the same sand and gravel. The 
 Boulders scattered through this are of those varieties 
 of Granite, Sienite, Porphyry, Trap, and Conglomer- 
 ate, which are found in place on the rocky shores of 
 Cohasset and Nahant, or in the Blue Hills of Quin- 
 cy. As the cliffs have been worn back by the action 
 of the sea, these blocks have tumbled down at their 
 base, lining the shore, until in some places, as along 
 the headland of Manomet, it almost merits the poet- 
 ical character, that has been given it, of a ' rock bound 
 coast* Some of these blocks are of extraordinary 
 
264 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 size, measuring twenty feet or more through, yet no 
 parent source, from which they could have been de- 
 rived, is known, nearer than those named above. 
 'Pilgrim Rock' is one of these boulders — itself an 
 older pilgrim than those who landed on it. It is an 
 extremely hard variety of Sienitic Granite, of a dark 
 grey color. The mica is in very small quantity, in 
 fine black particles. The rock by its rounded edges 
 bears evidence of its solid character, as well as of the 
 attempts to break specimens from it; which fortu- 
 nately its extreme hardness renders seldom success- 
 ful. This rock, now in two pieces, is, each piece, 
 about four feet through. 
 
 The long sandy strip of land called The Beach, 
 which separates the inner harbor from the sea with- 
 out, is no less curious for its geological interest than 
 as a singular feature in the scenery. Though only 
 a few rods wide, and its highest sand hills not rising 
 more than twenty feet above the sea, it stretches full 
 three miles long in front of the town, a mile distant 
 from the wharves, and has long interposed itself as a 
 barrier to the strong easterly storms. These throw 
 upon it more sand from the shoals outside, which 
 some years ago was an island above the water, still 
 retaining the name of Brown? s Island, and the sand 
 seems to be driven yet farther into the inner harbor, 
 which becomes shoaler as Brown's Island wastes 
 away. The beach, protected only by the scattering 
 Beach grass, has wasted faster than its sands were 
 renewed. It is described to have been covered with 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 265 
 
 trees some sixty years ago, and these no doubt were 
 a very efficient protection to it. At present, it 
 requires the aid of the Government and an occasional 
 appropriation of funds to repair the breaches made 
 by the storms, and secure with piles and brushwood 
 this important bulwark to the lower part of the town. 
 
 Eotanical Description of Plymouth. Plym- 
 outh and its vicinity are somewhat remarkable 
 for the diversity of the plants indigenous to its 
 soil ; embracing both those of a strictly botanical, 
 and likewise those of a more general interest. It 
 possesses hill, dale, meadow, swamp, marsh ; exten- 
 ded plains covered with a characteristic growth of the 
 pitch-pine ; and likewise many sheets of fresh water, 
 some of which are of a picturesque character, some 
 of considerable extent; others, again, of fairy size ; 
 and all, embosomed in its woods, interspersed among 
 its ridges ; or perhaps connected with one another 
 like chains of lakes, in miniature proportions. These 
 various regions, though of the limited extent of a 
 few miles, are found to be stored with plants ; and 
 have been repeatedly explored by botanists, with that 
 success which prompts further inquiry. 
 
 The scenery in the immediate vicinity of the 
 town is almost wholly maritime ; and to its peculiar 
 associations, as connected with pilgrim history, owes 
 its chief charms. A long extent of seabeach stretches 
 from the main-land near Duxbury, known by the 
 name of the Gurnet. To the westward rises Cap- 
 tain's Hill, an eminence of considerable height and of 
 
266 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 much interest, reminding us of that valiant Captain 
 Miles Standish, whose house was situated near its 
 foot. On the extreme east rise the bold blue heights 
 of Manomet, and directly in front of the spectator as 
 he stands on the hill of graves, is the narrow strip of 
 sand which defends the harbor and known as Plym- 
 outh beach. Nor will he fail to notice Clarke's Island, 
 bearing a little to the northeast, with its few trees 
 which seem to cluster near the dwelling houses of 
 the farmstead. Washed up oh these several beaches 
 by the usual storms, may be found the various species 
 of seaweeds {Algce,) which combine inimitable beau- 
 ty in some of the more delicate forms with direct 
 utility in the coarser kinds. The sands above high 
 water mark, are covered with the useful beachgrass, 
 the sea-pea, the maritime sandwort, &c. &c. and with 
 the several other sorts of vegetation, which usually 
 thrive in such situations. The glancous-leaved 
 seaside Grorrfwell (Lithospermum maritimum) has 
 been detected on*these shores; a plant better known 
 as inhabiting a more eastern coast. In the cultivated 
 grassfields may be seen the yellow rattle, rather con- 
 spicuous for its large and showy flowers. In the 
 meadows grow the tall, purple, fimbriated orchis, and 
 the delicate pure white species also, the bulbous 
 arethusa, and other forms of floral beauty, which 
 delight themselves in such spots. Nor wanting is 
 the rich cardinal-flower on the plashy brink of the 
 streams. The dry hill-sides afford the blazing star 
 (Liatris) ; in August conspicuous by its purple spikes 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 267 
 
 of blossoms at the end of its long, wand-like stems ; 
 while in every copse, in each thicket, amid forest 
 shades and in the open pasture land, burst forth, on 
 returning Spring, the roseate blossoms of the epigcea, 
 better known to our town's folks as the May-flower ;. 
 and whose admiration of its charming habits is only- 
 equaled by the associations which its trivial and 
 accidental name awakens. This truly lovely little 
 plant is a hardy denizen of every northern state of 
 New England, and, appearing in bloom early in May, 
 it is familiarly known as the May flower, more espec- 
 ially in New Hampshire, where it is the first flower 
 of spring. With us, when spring is unusually for- 
 ward, in some favorable situation, it has been known 
 to break forth from its winter's sleep at the beginning 
 or towards the middle of April : and to secure the 
 first specimen of the first Mayflower is considered a 
 fortunate circumstance among its admirers. A pleas- 
 ing fiction obtains with some good people hereabouts ; 
 viz. that this little flower is peculiar to this section of 
 the country ; but truth, which always proves stronger 
 than fiction, has, however, reluctantly dispelled the 
 illusion. None the less a favorite, has the epigcca 
 continued ; and on any pleasant afternoon in Spring 
 time, in the streets of Plymouth, may be seen nume- 
 rous children and young persons bearing handfuls of 
 these pretty blossoms, which they have culled with 
 choice selection from the neighboring woods and hills. 
 A curious and somewhat rare plant, closely related to 
 the crowberry or crakeherry of alpine regions, flourishes 
 
* 
 
 268 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 with us in certain spots. This is an early flower, 
 indeed, expanding its little and obscure filaments in 
 April, and reminding us, in its scientific name, of a 
 diligent investigator of New England botany. 
 
 The occurrence of rare plants in secluded spots 
 and in narrow areas is a singular fact. Another in- 
 stance of the kind besides that last mentioned, occurs 
 id the linear-leaved sundew which was first detected 
 here, by the now venerable Judge Davis, (as we are 
 informed by Dr. Bigelow in his Plants of Boston and 
 its Vicinity) several years ago ; and which very plant 
 since, has been one of the most interesting of this 
 region. Bordering the ponds may be found Sabba- 
 tia, elegant with its bloom of every tint of color, from 
 deep rose to purest white — the hyssop-leaved hedge- 
 nettle, the humble gratiola aurea with blossoms sub- 
 ject to variations, from its usual golden hue to paler 
 yellow, and even to white — the rosy coreopsis, the 
 narrow-leaved golden-rod, &c. &c. Rising from the 
 bottom of the shallower parts of the water, may be 
 seen xyris, with heads of yellow florets issuing from 
 brown scales, frequently found of remarkable size — 
 the pickerel-weed, looking like spikes of blue hya- 
 cinths, and quite as pretty — the white arrow-head — 
 the curious, little stems of the bladder-worts, covered 
 with purplish or else with yellow flowers, while their 
 finely divided foliage, kept from sinking by singularly 
 contrived apparatus, is slightly fixed by delicate 
 root fibres in the softooze, or float at random and at 
 pleasure. Of these, six or seven species may be 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 269 
 
 found in close proximity. Entangled among them, 
 perhaps, are the water-mill-foils — the aquatic ranun- 
 culuses with starry blossoms like flakes of snow, lying 
 on the still surface — the glossy leaved water-tar- 
 gets—curious species of sedges, bull-rushes, and 
 many other grass-like plants besides. And then in 
 drier situations we have the tall, gorgeous fire-weed, 
 rivaling the garden phloxes — while to chance on a 
 tuft of the orange-colored asclepias which may be 
 also found, this were delightful indeed. 
 
 To those, who love to steal away into Nature's 
 retreats — to sit listening to the perpetual sighing of 
 the summer breeze midst the pine branches, or to 
 tread the white sanded margins of our crystal lake- 
 lets—to those, who love a walk for its own sake — 
 or to cull flowers — or to forget their business or their 
 cares for a brief space of time, there may be found 
 in and near this old town of Plymouth, sufficient in- 
 ducements besides even Forefathers' Kock, the mem- 
 ory of bygone days, the traditionary stories and cher- 
 ished relics of the pilgrimage. Tracts of wild forests, 
 which have never been cleared for cultivation, and 
 in which the fallow deer yet roam at large ; and the 
 general features and outlines of what this spot was, 
 more than two centuries ago, will not fail to forcibly 
 remind them of that primitive wilderness, in which 
 Freedom sought an asylum and a resting place. 
 
 Plymouth Harbor. The harbor is protected by a 
 beach three miles in extent, about one mile from the 
 wharves. This beach is much reduced from its orig- 
 
270 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 inal width by the inroads of the sea. It was origi- 
 nally well wooded, bnt notwithstanding the fines 
 early imposed, to prevent depredation, the trees 
 have all disappeared. Towards the northern part of 
 it, within 60 or 70 years, there was a thick swamp 
 covered with pine, cherry and other trees. It 
 abounded also with beach plums and grapes. In 
 17G4 two small breaches were made by the sea 
 near this swamp, requiring £20 for repairs. Dec. 25, 
 1778, a severe storm greatly increased these breach- 
 es, and a hedge fence was made for its protection. 
 In 1784 a heavy gale, with a high tide, carried off 
 most of the trees. In 1685, the general court 
 made a conditional grant of 500 pounds, but through 
 inability the town could not comply with its condi- 
 tions. In 1806, a Township of land was granted, on 
 condition that the town raise $5000 for repairing the 
 Beach. In 1812 a lottery was granted, the proceeds 
 of which, amounting to $16,000, were applied for 
 repairs. Previous to the year 1806, more than 
 $40,000 had been expended without any aid from 
 Government. An appropriation made by the Gen- 
 eral Government in 1824 and 1825 of $43,566, which 
 sum was judiciously expended under the direction of 
 Lieut. Chase and Col. Totten, of the United States 
 Engineer Department, has resulted in the preserva- 
 tion of this important barrier to the ocean, which 
 otherwise must long since have been nearly de- 
 stroyed. It still requires vigilant attention. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 271 
 
 The Gurnet, at the entrance of the harbor, con- 
 tains about 27 acres of good land. Of the original 
 growth of wood nothing remains. It is the extreme 
 point of Marshfield beach and distant from the main 
 land about seven miles. A light house was erected 
 by the then Province of Massachusetts, on this point 
 in 1768, costing £660, 17s., which was consumed by 
 fire on July 2d, 1801; and that now standing was 
 erected by the United States in 1803. It has two 
 lights, about 70 feet above the sea. 
 
 Sayquish, an Indian name signifying clams, is a 
 head land, connected with the Gurnet by a narrow 
 neck, and contains about 14 acres. Between the 
 Gurnet and the western point of Saquish, the cove 
 is formed, which was 'full of breakers,' from which 
 the Shallop of the Pilgrims when driven by tempest, 
 narrowly escaped destruction. At Stage Point, with- 
 in this cove, Mr. William Paddy and Mr. John Hewes 
 erected fishing stages about the year 1643, near which 
 Bass were seined. Clark's Island, a little to the north 
 of Saquish, has already been described. 
 
 Cow Yard. This place, from the arrival of the 
 Mayflower to the present time, has served as a most 
 convenient place of anchorage, between Beach Point 
 and Clark's Island ; distant from Town 1 1 miles. 
 
 Brown's Island is about one-half a mile N. N. 
 West of Beach Point. Though now under water, it 
 was no doubt covered with trees, when the pilgrims 
 arrived, and was one of the ' two islands' of the harbor, 
 mentioned in their first history. This is confirmed by 
 
272 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 the statements of elderly persons now living, who in 
 their early days discovered the stumps of trees there. 
 The Island being so near the anchorage ground of 
 all strangers who visited New England for many 
 years, the trees were perhaps soon converted into 
 lire-wood, leaving it exposed to a rapid destruction 
 from the violence of easterly storms. Its name was 
 probably derived from Peter Brown, who came in 
 the Mayflower, as there was no person then living in 
 the colony so likely to give it that name. According 
 to Gov. Winthrop, Oct. 6, 1635, two shallops were 
 cast away upon ' Brown's Island,' near the Gurnet's 
 nose, and the men on board were all drowned. 
 
 Agriculture and Horticulture. As a farming 
 town Plymouth possesses, as might be expected from 
 the character of its soil, but few natural advantages, 
 and the inhabitants have generally found other modes 
 of employment more profitable. The cleared lands 
 are about five miles by one half in extent. On this 
 subject a friend engaged in agricultural pursuits 
 observes, ' that the sea by equalizing the temperature 
 through the year gives us mild winters and a long 
 'season.' There is an old standing prejudice that 
 nothing on the New England coast will grow, and 
 we are sorry to see that Mr. Downing, in his very 
 pleasant book on the fruits of America, falls in with 
 this popular error. Nothing is more certain, than 
 that excessive coldness of the atmosphere is injurious 
 to vegetation ; but with us the east wind serves only 
 as a balance to the broiling summer sun. It also 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 273 
 
 retards vegetation in the spring, and thus saves us 
 from late frosts, often so destructive in the interior of 
 the state. On the whole we are thankful for the 
 east wind. The land is of easy tillage and from the 
 numerous swamps and the contiguous shores of the 
 sea may be readily supplied and enriched. 
 
 The fruits exhibited by the Old Colony Horticul- 
 tural Society in September and October of 1845, 
 were of the first excellence, and have never been 
 surpassed in New England. Skill and industry have 
 never faded from the east wind or any other point of 
 climate. Indeed, there are many indications that the 
 art of gardening will not only receive more attention 
 than it has done in former times, but take the place 
 of other employments. 
 
 Commerce and the Fisheries. One of the in- 
 ducements held out by the Pilgrims, to King James 
 the first, when they applied for a patent, was the 
 prospect of advantage to the crown, from the estab- 
 lishment of the fisheries in America, and though his 
 Majesty would not wholly swallow this bait, in 
 exchange for toleration, he was so far inclined to its 
 taste, 'as to connive at them if they would carry 
 themselves peaceably.' The want of sufficient capi- 
 tal prevented the first settlers from doing much in 
 this business, and the manufacture of lumber, and 
 traffic with the natives, were the earliest principal 
 sources of income. The enterprise of Isaac Allerton, 
 however, accomplished much in this respect ; and 
 Gov. Winthrop observes in his history, that, February 
 
274 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 1st, 1633, Mr. Allerton fished with eight boats at 
 . Marblehead. That the fisheries did not for some 
 time increase to the extent anticipated, appears from 
 the fact that in 1628, when the colony trade was 
 purchased for six years and assumed by eight of their 
 number, the whole amount of shipping was, ' the 
 pinnace, bass-boat, and shallop at Manomet.' 
 
 In 1670, the valuation of fish boats was, four at 25 
 pounds ; two at 18 pounds; one at 12 pounds ; in all 
 148 pounds sterling. From this period the fisheries 
 increased more rapidly, and in 1770 amounted to 
 about seventy sail, from thirty to forty-five tons 
 each, navigated by from six to eight men. 
 
 The number of merchant vessels employed in the 
 Liverpool trade, from 1755 to 1770 was three brigs 
 amounting to four hundred and seventy tons. At 
 this period only one vessel, Capt. Worth, sailed from 
 Boston in the same trade, excepting a schooner 
 owned by Samuel A. Otis, Esq., which made her out- 
 fits at Plymouth. Other vessels in the merchant 
 service at this time have been estimated at twenty. 
 
 Vessels employed in the cod and mackerel fisher- 
 ies in 1845, fifty-five ; tonnage four thousand ; mack- 
 erel taken one hundred and twenty barrels; value 
 $780; codfish 40,617 quintals; value $93,107; salt 
 consumed 48,575 bushels; capital $104,993; men 
 employed 465. Vessels employed in the whalefish- 
 ery five ; tonnage 998 ; sperm oil imported 6,667 gal- 
 lons; value $6,007; whale oil 860 gallons ; value $355; 
 capital 77,000 ; men employed 107. Several freight- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 275 
 
 ing ships are owned by our merchants engaged in 
 foreign trade, the tonnage not ascertained. Their 
 outfits are made mostly in Boston.* 
 
 Manufactures. There are two rolling, slitting, 
 and nail mills — iron manufactured and not made into 
 nails, 600 tons, value $55,000 ; nail machines 30; m'd 
 1,000 tons ; v. 85,000 ; capital $100,000 ; hands employ- 
 ed 50. One of these establishments is at Chilton- 
 ville, 3 miles from town, and the other on Town 
 Brook. One forge, bar iron, anchors, and cables m'd 
 346 tons; value 8,800; c. $5000. 
 
 The Plymouth mills incorporated in 1845, capital 
 30,000. This establishment manufactures a large 
 amount of rivets of a superior quality, and employs 12 
 hands. 
 
 Cordage Manufactories — two of these are on a 
 large scale, having water power. Cordage made, 
 912 tons; value $203,800; capital $133,700; men 
 employed, 139. 
 
 The factory at Chiltonville, was built and incor- 
 porated in 1812, under the name of the Plym- 
 outh Woollen and Cotton Factory. It is now used 
 for manufacturing cotton ducks ; employs a capital of 
 
 *The average number of vessels annually engaged in the fish- 
 eries at Plymouth from 1765 to 1775 was 60 ; tonnage 2,400 ; men 
 employed 420; fish taken 2,400 quintals, mostly shipped to the West 
 Indies and south of Europe. The vessels thus engaged in the whole, 
 state of Massachusetts during the same period was 665 ; tonnage 
 25,630 ; men 4,405 ; fish taken 250,650 quintals ; 108,600 being shipped 
 to the south of Europe ; 142,050 to the West Indies. See Pitkin's 
 Statistics, page S3. 
 
 
276 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 about $10,000, and 75 persons. Value of manufac- 
 tured goods about $75,000. Since the present liberal 
 and enterprising owners of this establishment com- 
 menced operations, the village around it wears a 
 different aspect, and is greatly improved, 
 
 Oil and Sperm Candle Manufactories, two — oil 
 m'd, 45,500 gallons; value 38,200; candles 34,750 
 pounds; value 8,687; capital $45,000; employed, 7. 
 
 Two establishments in town are engaged to a 
 considerable extent in the manufacture of stocks and 
 other articles usually connected with that business, 
 producing annually to the value of more than 25,000 
 dollars. 
 
 With the advantages of water and rail road com- 
 munication, it is believed few places possess better 
 advantages for manufacturing pursuits. It possesses 
 the best accommodations for the erection of steam 
 power, and there is still a surplus of water power, 
 now practically unavailable, which in time may be- 
 come the means of adding largely to the business of 
 the town. 
 
 Census of Plymouth at Different Periods. 
 In a work on New England, by Capt. John Smith, 
 published in 1631, which may be found in the Mass- 
 achusetts Historical Collections vol. 3, 3d series — he 
 says, under date of 1624. ' In the plantation their is 
 about one hundred and four score persons, some 
 cattle, but many swine and poultry.' In 1629, when 
 the colony charter was granted, the number of inhab- 
 itants mentioned in that instrument was 300, and 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 277 
 
 Smith, before quoted, when speaking of Gov. Win- 
 throp's colony, in 1631, estimates the number in 
 Plymouth at between four and five hundred persons. 
 The introduction of cattle into the colony, induced 
 the planters to seek out situations favorable for their 
 support, and for many years, mowing lands were 
 annually granted by the court, to different individuals. 
 This arrangement, however, was too limited, and 
 situations more favorable in the abundance of grass, 
 led many planters to establish themselves at Jones 
 River, Duxbury, Marshfield, Barnstable and Yar- 
 mouth. In 1644, it was seriously debated whether 
 the whole body should remove to some more favora- 
 ble region. This question was so far settled that 
 seven individuals commenced the settlement of East- 
 ham; but whatever advantages that place afforded, it 
 was found inadequate to accommodate the whole, 
 and pilgrim ground had attractions, it seems, which 
 the hope of gain could not wholly overcome. 
 
 In 1701 a division of lands was made among 201 
 freeholders of Plymouth. Estimating their families 
 at 6 each, the population would be 1,206, an estimate 
 probably not far from the truth. In 1643, the males 
 from 16 to 60 years of age, capable of bearing arms, 
 were 146. One in the score, was the rate of military 
 service. In 1646, the Freemen and Townsmen 
 (voters) were 79; 1670, 51; 1683, 55; 1689, 15. 
 
 In 1764. Including 77 colored persons and 48 
 Indians, the number of inhabitants was 2,225; 1776, 
 2,655; 1783, 2,380. According to the United States 
 22 
 
278 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 census in 1790, 2,995; 1800, 3,524; 1810,4,228; 1820, 
 4,348; 1830,4,758; 1840,5,281. The present popu- 
 lation is probably about 5,600. 
 
 The number of dwelling houses, including 98 at 
 Manomet ponds, is 704. The number of ratable 
 polls 1,305; qualified voters 1,251. Taxable property 
 in 1845, $2,271,300, at 5,28 on 1000 dollars. 
 
 The list of persons in the Colony able to bear arms, 
 from the age of 16 to 60 years, as taken from the 
 records, under date of 1643, was, in Plymouth, 146; 
 Duxbury, 82; Scituate, 100; Barnstable, 60; Yar- 
 mouth, 59 ; Sandwich, 68 ; Marshfield, 50 ; Taunton, 
 54. Estimating the men able to bear arms as one in 
 5, the population of 1643, would stand, in Plymouth, 
 730, and in the whole Colony, 3,055. * 
 
 Public Buildings. The Court House standing 
 in Court Square, (in early times called Framing 
 Green,) was built in 1820, and is fitted up in the best 
 manner, for accommodating the courts of law, and 
 the public officers of the county ; having fire-proof 
 apartments for the safe keeping of records. The 
 jail and dwelling-house attached to it, were built 
 about the same time. The first prison was erected 
 
 * The probable number of Indians inhabiting New England at 
 the time when the Pilgrims landed, is estimated by the Hon. Albert 
 Gallatin at from 30 to 40,000 ; and of this number it is equally probable 
 that from 15 to 20,000, lived within 40 miles of Plymouth. When this 
 number is compared with the small number of the English inhabitants 
 in the Colony, as shown by the preceding statements, it may justly 
 excite our wonder that they were able to sustain their perilous posi- 
 tion in the land. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 279 
 
 in 1641 and was 22 feet by 16, two stories high, and 
 stood near Prison Brook in Summer street, where the 
 house lately owned by Nathaniel Russell, Esq., 
 stands. The second jail stood in the same street on 
 the lot owned by Capt. Ichabod Davie ; and the third 
 where the Town House above described, stands. It 
 is gratifying to remark, that though the size of these 
 necessary instruments of terror to evil doers, has 
 been successively enlarged, there seems to have been, 
 for many years past, less occasion for their use. 
 
 Pilgrim Hall has already been described. 
 
 Alms House. In 1626, the town purchased a few 
 acres of land situated on the south side of Town Brook, 
 on which they erected a commodious brick house, 
 and other buildings, at the cost of about $5,000, where 
 the destitute are comfortably provided, under the 
 charge of a superintendent, annually appointed. The 
 amount of expenditure, above the income of labor, is 
 about $1,500, exclusive of the sums paid for cases of 
 insanity, where individuals are sent to the Worcester 
 Hospital, amounting, for six individuals, to about 
 $800. 
 
 The Market is kept under the Court House, and 
 is well supplied with most kinds of wild fowl, poultry 
 and other substantial articles of consumption required 
 by the wants of the people. 
 
 Societies. The Pilgrim Society was instituted 
 in 1620, by the citizens of Plymouth and others in 
 New England, to commemorate the landing and to 
 honor the memory of the intrepid men, who first 
 
280 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, 
 
 stepped on Plymouth Rock. The present number of 
 the society is about . The condition of member- 
 ship was formerly the payment of 10 dollars, now 
 reduced to the sum of five dollars. An appropriate 
 diploma, has been prepared for distribution, to those 
 who join the society. 
 
 The first Presidents of the Society were Hon. 
 Joshua Thomas, John Watson, Alden Bradford, and 
 Nath. M. Davis, Esqrs. 
 
 The present officers are Charles Henry Warren, 
 President ; William Davis, Vice President ; Andrew 
 L. Russell, Recording Secretary ; Benjamin M. Wat- 
 son, Corresponding Secretary ; William S. Russell, 
 Librarian and Cabinet Keeper; Nathaniel M. Davis, 
 John B Thomas, Isaac L. Hedge, William M. Jack- 
 son, Schuyler Sampson, Joseph Cushman, of Plym- 
 outh, and James T. Hayward and William Thomas, 
 of Boston, Trustees. 
 
 The following is a list of those who have delivered 
 public addresses in commemoration of the landing of 
 the fathers, in 1620. The asterisk prefixed to some 
 of the names, designates those whose discourses 
 have not been published. 
 
 1769, First celebration by Old Colony Club. 
 
 1770, Second celebration by Old Colony Club. 
 
 1771, Third celebration by Old Colony Club. 
 
 1772, Rev. Chandler Robbins — For Old Colony 
 
 Club. 
 
 1773, Rev. Charles Turner — For Old Colony Club. 
 
 By the town and by the first parish. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 281 
 
 1774, Rev. Gad Hitchcock, Pembroke. 
 
 1775, Rev. Samuel Baldwin, Hanover. 
 
 1776, Rev. Sylvanus Conant, Middleborough. 
 
 1777, Rev. Samuel West, Dartmouth. 
 
 1778, Rev. Timothy Hilliard, Barnstable. * 
 
 1779, Rev. William Shaw, Marshfield. * 
 
 1780, Rev. Jonathan Moor, Rochester. # 
 
 From this time the public observances of the day- 
 were suspended, till 
 
 1794, Rev. Chandler Robbins, D. D., of Plymouth. 
 
 1795, } 
 
 1796, [-Private Celebration. 
 
 1797, j 
 
 1798, Dr. Zaccheus Bartlett, Plymouth, Oration.* 
 
 1799, The day came so near that appointed for the 
 ordination of Rev. Mr. Kendall, that it was not cele- 
 brated by a public discourse. 
 
 1800, John Davis, Esq., Boston, Oration. # 
 
 1801, Rev. John Allyn, D. D., Duxbury. 
 
 1802, John Q. Adams, Esq., Quincy, Oration. 
 
 1803, Rev. John T. Kirkland, D. D., Boston. * 
 
 1804, (Lord's Day) Rev. James Kendall, Plym- 
 
 outh. * 
 
 1805, Alden Bradford, Esq., Boston. 
 
 1806, Rev. Abiel Holmes, D. D., Cambridge. 
 
 1807, Rev. James Freeman, D. D., Boston. # 
 
 1808, Rev. Thaddeus M. Harris, Dorchester. 
 
 1809, Rev. Abiel Abbot, Beverly. 
 1811, Rev. John Elliot, D. D., Boston. 
 1815, Rev. James Flint, Bridgewater. 
 
282 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 1817, Rev. Horace Holley, Boston. * 
 
 1818, Wendell Davis, Esq., Sandwich.* 
 
 1819, Francis C. Gray, Esq., Boston. 
 
 1820, Daniel Webster, Esq., Boston, by Pilgrim 
 
 Society. 
 1824, Professor Edward Everett, Cambridge, by 
 
 Pilgrim Society. 
 1831, Rev. John Brazer, Salem, by First Parish in 
 
 Plymouth* 
 The following anniversaries were commemorated 
 by the third parish in Plymouth. 
 
 1826, Rev. Richard S. Storrs, Braintree. 
 
 1827, Rev. Lyman Beecher, D. D., Boston. 
 
 1828, Rev. Samuel Green, Boston. 
 
 1829, Rev. Daniel Huntington, Bridgewater. 
 
 1830, Rev. Benjamin Wisner, D. D., Boston. 
 
 1831, Rev. John Codman, D. D., Dorchester. 
 
 1832, Rev. Convers Francis of Watertown for the 
 
 First Parish. 
 Rev. Mr. Bigelow of Rochester, for the third 
 Parish. 
 
 1833, Rev. Mr. Barrett of Boston, for the First 
 
 Parish. 
 
 1834, Rev. G. W. Blagden of Boston, for the Pil- 
 
 grim Society. 
 
 1835, Hon. Peleg Sprague, by Pilgrim Society. 
 
 1837, Rev. Robert B. Hall, by Pilgrim Society * 
 
 1838, Rev. Thomas Robbins, by Pilgrim Society* 
 1841, Joseph R. Chandler, Esq., of Philadelphia, 
 
 by Pilgrim Society.* 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 283 
 
 1845, a public celebration, religions services in the 
 First church, a public dinner and addresses. 
 
 Public celebrations of the Anniversary of the 
 Landing, have been frequent in other parts of our 
 country, particularly in the city of New York, and 
 the New England Society there, instituted in 1807, 
 to honor the memory of the Pilgrims, we believe 
 has rarely permitted the day to pass, without the 
 observance of public services. Purposes of relief to 
 the destitute are connected with the objects of this 
 society, and in this respect its operations have ac- 
 complished great good. There is also a similar 
 association at Charlestown, South Carolina, formed 
 in 1820, and one at Philadelphia, 1845. The day has 
 also been celebrated publicly, west of the Allegha- 
 nies, at Hillsboro', Cincinnati, New Orleans, Louis- 
 ville, and St. Louis. 
 
 Diseases of Plymouth. The most prevalent 
 diseases, in the town of Plymouth, are those affect- 
 ing the organs within the cavity of the chest ; and to 
 these pulmonary consumption bears its usual propor- 
 tion, and pursues its ordinary fatal course, occasioning 
 perhaps one-sixth of the whole number of deaths. 
 Other inflammatory diseases, as dysentery and rheu- 
 matism, are met with, but seldom prove fatal. 
 Idiopathic fevers, assuming the typhoid type, are 
 occasionally seen, but are much less common than 
 elsewhere, in the compact part of the town, and are 
 not often malignant or mortal. Among children, 
 croup, lung fevers, cholera and diarrhoea, are the 
 
284 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 prevailing diseases ; the first comparatively infrequent, 
 but the three last of greater frequency, often difficult 
 of management, and fatal in their tendency. Epi- 
 demics of scarlet fever and measles appear at 
 periods of the usual interval, and produce their usual 
 average of mortality. Insanity bears perhaps rather 
 an uncommon proportion to the population. As a 
 general remark, it may be said, that the inhabitants 
 of this town are more healthy than those of places 
 in its vicinity. — Communicated by Dr. Warren. 
 
 Bill of Mortality. The deaths in seven years, 
 from 1836 to 1842 inclusive, according to Record, 
 were 649, — an average of 92 f per annum, being 
 about one in 664 of the whole population. The 
 average deaths, during the last three years, is not far 
 from the same. It is believed that the health of 
 Plymouth may well compare with that of any other 
 place in the county, but the means of an accurate 
 comparison are not at hand. 
 
 Physicians in Plymouth from 1620. — Those 
 with this mark ♦ died in Plymouth. 
 
 * Samuel Fuller, from 1620 to 1633. 
 
 Matthew Fuller, from 1640 to 1653, died at Barn- 
 stable. 
 
 ♦Francis LeBaron, 1693 to 1704. 
 
 ♦Thomas Little, 1700 to 1712. 
 
 ♦Lazarus LeBaron, 1720 to 1773. 
 
 ♦Joseph LeBaron, to 1761. 
 
 ♦Lazarus LeBaron Jr., to 1784. 
 
 ♦William Thomas, 1802. 
 
 ♦Nathaniel Lathrop, M. D., 1828. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 285 
 
 *James Thatcher, M. D., M. M. S., 1844. 
 
 *Rosseter Cotton. - , -; 
 
 ^Stephen Marcy. 
 
 *Zacheus Bartlett, 1835. 
 
 *Isaac Barrows. 
 
 *Caleb Boutelle, M. D., M. M. S. t 1819. 
 
 Andrew Mackie, M. D., M. M. S., removed. 
 
 Robert Capen, M. M. S., removed. 
 
 *Hervey K Preston, M. D., M. M. S., 1837. 
 
 Charles Cotton, M. D., removed. 
 
 Amariah Preston, removed. 
 
 Levi Hubbard, removed. 
 
 Living in Plymouth at present — 
 
 Nathan Hayward, M. D., M. M. S., relinquished 
 practice. 
 
 Winslow Warren, M. D., M. M. S. 
 
 Timothy Gordon, M. M. S. 
 
 Alexander Jackson, M. D., M. M. S. 
 
 Benjamin Hubbard. 
 
 Samuel Merritt, M. M. S.. 
 
 Public Schools. The first instance of legislation 
 on the subject of Free Schools is found in the court 
 proceedings of 1663, as follows: 'It is proposed by 
 the Court unto the several townships in this jurisdic- 
 tion as a thing that they ought to take into their serious 
 consideration that some course may be taken that in 
 every town there may be a schoolmaster set up to train 
 up children to reading and writing.' At this time 42 
 years had elapsed from the first settlement of Plym- 
 outh. Previous to this period, the Colony was prin- 
 22* 
 
286 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 cipally indebted, for the means of education, to the 
 learned and venerable clergy, who preferred noncon- 
 formity and exile, rather than adapt their consciences 
 to the requisitions of unrighteous power. In every 
 new settlement, the first object was to establish public 
 worship, and secure an able minister; and the flock 
 under his charge were not left without an earnest 
 endeavor to impart, at least, the knowledge of the 
 scriptures, and ability to read them. These efforts, 
 under every disadvantage of poverty and severe 
 labor, paved the way for the school house. 
 
 In the year 1635, Feb. 11th, it appears from the 
 Old Colony Records, that ' Benjamin Eaton, with his 
 mother's consent, is put to Bridget Fuller, (the wid- 
 ow of Dr. Samuel Fuller,) being to keep him at school 
 two years, and employ him after in such service as 
 slie saw good, and he may be fit for: It further 
 appears from Dr. Fuller's will in 1633, that several 
 young persons were in his family, some belonging to 
 Massachusetts. It is therefore inferred that Mrs. 
 Fuller was the first Pilgrim Schoolmistress. In after 
 times the names of Mrs. Cotton, Keen, Rickard, Cobb, 
 Plasket, Weston and others, were teachers, most of 
 them to quite an advanced period of life. 
 
 In 1670 a grant was made by the government of 
 the Colony, 'of all such profits as might or should 
 annually accrue to the Colony, from time to time for 
 fishing with nets or seines at Cape Cod, for mackerel, 
 bass or herrings, to be improved for and towards a 
 free school, in some town of this jurisdiction, provided 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 287 
 
 a beginning were made within one year from the 
 grant.' In 1672, by another act of court in conjunc- 
 tion with the appropriation of the income of lands at 
 Agawam and Seipecan and liberal individual sub- 
 scriptions, means were secured adequate to the 
 support of a Grammar School, which has been con- 
 tinued to the present time, with improvements corre- 
 sponding to the increase of means. In the establish- 
 ment of free schools Gov. Prence was zealous and 
 persevering, and his memory is prominently associ- 
 ated in connection with an institution, fraught with 
 the highest benefits to our community. 
 
 From the observations of the late Samuel Davis 
 Esq., on the schools of Plymouth, the following re- 
 marks are extracted. ' Cape Cod therefore, which 
 afforded the first shelter to the Pilgrims in 1620, at a 
 subsequent period, as we have stated from our records, 
 afforded also the first fund for the Education of their 
 children.' # 
 
 Under the date of July 4th, 1672, an act of Court 
 recommends a contribution by the people of the 
 Colony for the benefit of Harvard College. 
 
 The sum of $6,000 is appropriated for public 
 schools the present year, which is divided among 
 districts, in proportion to the number of children 
 from the age of 4 to 16 years — nearly four dollars 
 to each — the whole number being 1524. Besides 
 this appropriation, many districts pay by subscription 
 a considerable amount, in addition. Number of dis- 
 tricts, 18. 
 
 * See Appendix F. 
 
288 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Private Schools. Of these there are two in 
 town, in which the higher branches of learning are 
 taught, and well sustained by students both at home 
 and from abroad, one of which, for Misses, is kept by 
 the Rev. Henry F. Edes, and the other by Charles 
 Burton, Esq. 
 
 The following is a list of those born in Plymouth, 
 who were graduates at our Colleges. Those marked 
 thus * are deceased ; those in italics have been 
 ordained to the work of the ministry. 
 
 1642, * Nathaniel Brewster. 
 
 1650, *Isaac Allerton. 
 
 1661, * Nathaniel Chauncy, ) Twin sons of 
 
 *Elnalhan Chauncy, ) Rev. Dr. Chauncy. 
 1663, *John Rayner. 
 1635, * Roland Cotton. 
 1698, *Josiah Cotton. 
 1701, *Throphilus Cotton. 
 1707, * William Shurtleff. 
 1726, *Isaac Lathrop. 
 1730, *John Cotton. 
 1735, *John Watson. 
 1745, * James Warren. 
 1745, *Thomas Foster. 
 1751, ^William Watson. 
 1753, *Pelham Winslow. 
 1756, *Bartlett Le Baron. 
 1756, ^Nathaniel Lathrop. 
 1759, *AUel Leonard, S. T. D. Nassau Hall. 
 
 1765, *Edward Winslow. 
 
 1766, *John Watson. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 289 
 
 i 
 
 1768, *Thomas Leonard. 
 1771, Perez Morton. 
 
 1771, * Jacob Bacon. 
 
 1772, *Joshua Thomas. 
 1776, *James Warren. 
 
 1781, John Davis, LL. D. Dartmouth. 
 
 1782, *Chandler Robbins. 
 1782, ^Joseph Bartlett. 
 
 1782, ^Charles Warren. 
 
 1783, Barnabas Hedge. 
 1783, William Jackson. 
 
 1789, Zaccheus Bartlett. 
 
 1790, * Joseph Warren. 
 1793, Ward Cotton. 
 1796, *Wendell Davis. 
 1798, Andrew Croswell. 
 
 1798, * Samuel Prince Robbins. 
 
 1799, Abner Bartlett. 
 1802, * Caleb Holmes, 
 1804, Nathaniel Morton Davis. 
 
 1806, John Boies Thomas. 
 
 1807, *Ezra Shaw Goodwin. 
 
 1807, William Thomas. 
 
 1808, Charles Cotton. 
 1808, *John Torrey. 
 1810, *John Watson Davis. 
 1810, John Cotton. 
 1810, Rnfns Bacon. 
 
 1813, Winslow Warren. 
 
 1814, *Isaac Eames Cobb. 
 
 1815, Pelham Winslow Warren. 
 
290 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 1817, Charles Henry Warren. 
 181b, Sidney Bartlett. 
 1820, Isaac Lolhrop Hedge. 
 1820, Nathaniel Russell. 
 1823, James Augustus Kendall. 
 
 1826, Hersey Bradford Goodwin. 
 
 1827, George Bartlett. 
 
 1827, Andrew Leach Russell. 
 
 1831, # Francis James Russell. 
 
 1832, Le Baron Russell. 
 
 1833, Winslow Marston Watson. 
 
 1835, Allen Crocker Spooner. 
 Lemuel Stephens. 
 
 1836, ^Robert Bartlett. 
 James Thacher Hodge. 
 
 1837, William Davis. 
 
 1839, Benjamin Marston Watson. 
 
 1840, Charles Gideon Davis. 
 William Goodwin Russell. 
 
 1841, Abraham Jackson. 
 
 1842, William Thomas Davis. 
 John Goddard Jackson. 
 
 1843, John Jackson Russell. 
 1845, Thomas Russell. 
 
 Churches of Plymouth. The First Congrega- 
 tional Church. Succession of Pastors : Ralph Smith 
 1629; John Rayner, 1636; John Cotton, 1668 
 Ephraim Little, 1699; Nathaniel Leonard, 1724 
 Chandler Bobbins, 1760; James Kendall, 1800 
 George W. Briggs as colleague Pastor, 1837. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 291 
 
 Second Cong, church at Manomet Ponds. This 
 church was organized Nov. 8, 1738, and consisted of 
 25 members. Pastors, Jonathan Ellis, ordained Nov. 
 8, 1738, dismissed Feb. 1, 1757; Elijah Packard, or- 
 dained Dec. 26, 1753, dismissed, Feb. 1, 1757; Ivory 
 Hovey, installed April 18, 1770, died Nov. 4, 1803; 
 Seth Stetson ordained July 18, 1804, dismissed 
 1819; Harvey Bushnell ordained Nov. 21, 1821, dis- 
 missed June 30, 1823 ; Moses Partridge ordained 
 April 21, 1824, died Sept. 25, 1824; Joshua Barrett 
 ordained Jan. 11, 1826, dismissed Nov. 11, 1833; 
 Gains Conant installed April 24, 1834, dismissed 
 May 14, 1841; John Dwight installed July 28, 1841. 
 
 Third Cong. Church, or Church of the Pilgrimage. 
 Their first house of worship was built in 1801; the 
 present one in 1844. Pastors, Adoniram Judson, 
 installed May 12, 1802. His connection was dis- 
 solved with the church in 1819, he having embraced 
 the Baptist faith. William T. Torrey was installed 
 Jan. 1, 1818, dismissed March 12, 1823. Frederic 
 Freeman installed 1S24. In 1830, sanctioned by a 
 council convened on the 17th of March, a separation 
 of this church occurred, and 59 members were 
 formed into a new church, denominated the Robin- 
 son Congregational Church. The connection of Mr. 
 Freeman with this church was dissolved in May, 
 
 1833. Thomas Boutelle was ordained May 21st, 
 
 1834, dismissed April 4, 1837. Robert B. Hall, or- 
 dained Aug. 23, 1837, and having addressed a letter 
 of resignation to the church, his connection with it 
 
292 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 was dissolved in 1844. Charles S. Porter was in- 
 stalled 1844. 
 
 The Fourth Congregational Church, at Eel River, 
 was organized in 1814, from the first and third 
 churches. Benjamin Whittemore was their first 
 minister, and still continues in that office. The 
 Society erected a new church in 1840 of spacious 
 size and handsome appearance. 
 
 Baptist Society. This church was constituted in 
 1809, and Lewis Leonard was ordained their first 
 pastor, on which occasion Rev. Caleb Blood delivered 
 the sermon. Mr. Leonard was succeeded by Stephen 
 S. Nelson, July 28, 1820, who continued till May, 
 1823, at which time Benjamin Grafton became their 
 pastor, who resigned in May 1829, and was suc- 
 ceeded by Thomas Conant. The successive pastors 
 after this period were E. Cushman, Horatio N. 
 Foring, Joseph M. Driver, Ira Person, and Abial 
 Harvey, who is the present pastor, and commenced 
 his labors Oct. 12, 1845. 
 
 The Fifth Congregational or Robinson Society 
 was formed, as already stated, in 1830. They erect- 
 ed in 1831 a neat house of worship, and engaged 
 Charles J. Warren as their pastor. The present 
 pastor of this church is Aaron Foster. 
 
 The First Universalist Society was organized 
 March 10, 1822. Rev. James H. Bugby was ordained 
 Dec. 22d of the same year, and continued till his 
 death, May 10, 1834. Rev. Albert Case was their 
 pastor from 1835 to 1838. In May, 1839, Rev. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 293 
 
 Russell Tomlinson became the pastor, which charge 
 he still holds. This society, in 1826, erected a spa- 
 cious and handsome house of worship, on the north 
 side of Leyden street. 
 
 The Christian Church. This church was formed 
 May 30, 1824, and has been with some intervals 
 under the charge of Elders J. V. Himes, O. E. 
 Bryant, T. Cole, G. W. Kelton, L. Baker, J. Good- 
 win, and John Taylor, their present minister. The 
 society having purchased the house of worship for- 
 merly owned by the 3d Cong. Society, on Training 
 Green, the same has been repaired and improved, 
 affording excellent accommodations. 
 
 Another church of this denomination was organ- 
 ized at Eel River, (now Chiltonville,) in 1840, con- 
 sisting of 13 persons, now increased to 60. A neat 
 and convenient house of worship was erected in 
 1840, principally through the exertions of their first 
 and present minister, Elder Faunce, a descendant of 
 Thomas Faunce, the last ruling. Elder of the first 
 church of Plymouth. 
 
 Christ's Church. On the 14th day of November, 
 1844, the parish of Christ's church was duly organized 
 in conformity with the provisions of the Revised 
 Statutes, and the requisite officers were chosen. A 
 church was commenced in Russell street, which. was 
 completed and consecrated in October. It is a beauti- 
 ful structure, in the Gothic style of architecture, com- 
 bining the advantages of economy and of tasteful 
 execution in an eminent degree. The design was by 
 Richard Um'ohn Esci. Of New York. 
 
294 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Ponds. The number of ponds in Plymouth is 
 estimated at 200, and the map of Plymouth, by S. 
 Bourne, Esq., contains about 120 ; a considerable 
 portion of which, would in most other parts of our 
 country, be designated as lakes. They cover, as is 
 generally estimated, 3000 acres in extent. The 
 most attractive of these, are Bellington Sea, already 
 described, South Pond, four miles from town, abound- 
 ing with white and red Perch. Murdoch's Pond is a 
 quarter of a mile west of the village. Half-way 
 Pond is 10 miles southerly. White Island Pond is 
 north-westerly of the last named, and covers about 
 600 acres. Great Herring Pond is 15 miles south, on 
 the borders of Sandwich. Long Pond, 2 miles in 
 length, 6 miles from town. Clam Pudding Pond is 7 
 miles south on the Sandwich road. 
 
 The general features and scenery of these lakes 
 are picturesque and beautiful, affording the most 
 agreeable resorts in summer, for fishing and other 
 amusements. 
 
 Hills. Pinnacle Hill is near South Pond. Sentry 
 and Indian Hill are on the sea-shore of Manomet. 
 
 Paukopunnakuck is the Indian name of a hill called 
 Breakheart Hill by the early planters. It is 10 miles 
 from town, on the formerly travelled Sandwich road. 
 The name was appropriately applied at a period in 
 our early history, when Governors, and other officers 
 of Government, travelled on foot from Cape Cod 
 and back again, in the discharge of their arduous 
 duties to the country. 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 295 
 
 Monks Hill is a few miles from town, within the 
 bounds of Kingston. It rises 313 feet above the 
 ocean, in the midst of a widely extended forest, and 
 commands a fine view of the ocean and interior. It 
 is called in the Old Colony Records, « Monts Hill 
 Chase,' a name supposed to have been applied to a 
 hunt in England.* 
 
 Mountain Hill is near goose point. Sparrow 1 s Hill, 
 2 miles from town, derives its name from Jonathan 
 Sparrow, who was an early settler and had land 
 assigned him there. He moved to Eastham and died 
 there about 1660. 
 
 1 Steart's Hill/ so called by the first planters, is 
 directly below the farm now owned by Mr. Barnabas 
 Hedge, on the sea shore, and is supposed to have 
 been named ' from Start's Point, a place near Ply- 
 mouth in England.' The house of Gov. Prence 
 stood a little south of that occupied by Mr. Hedge, 
 and the place was called Plain Dealing, which name 
 extended, it is believed, to Kingston line. It would 
 seem desirable to revive this ancient name, of a 
 place which was owned at different times by several 
 distinguished men among the first planters. 
 
 Brooks. These are five in number, on the north 
 side of the town. Near the 3d brook dwelt Deacon 
 
 * The author of ' New England Wars,' whose youthful footsteps 
 so often traversed the woodland scenery of his native hills, has 
 availed himself of this spot as the place of interview between a 
 venerable Puritan, whose daughter had been taken captive by the 
 Indians, and King Philip, the renowned warrior of Pokanoket. 
 
296 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Hirst, in 1640, who there established the first Tan- 
 nery in Plymouth. 
 
 Wellingsly Brook is half a mile south of the town, 
 where Secretary Morton dwelt, and justly claims 
 historical interest, in connection with his valuable 
 labors, in compiling the history of N. England and 
 our early church records, and recording the transac- 
 tions of the commissioners of the United Colonies. 
 
 Eel River, about 3 miles south-east of the town, 
 was so named from the abundant supply of eels it 
 affords. Near it, on both sides the river, was a garri- 
 son house during Philip's war. The house which 
 stood near that now owned by the Rev. Mr. Whitte- 
 more, was occupied by William Clark, and on Sun- 
 day the 12th of March, 1676, it was attacked by the 
 Indians, and eleven persons were killed and several 
 houses burnt. It is worthy of remark, that this was 
 the only serious attack made on Plymouth by the 
 Indians, though it had frequently been threatened 
 during its early history. 
 
 Elder Fan nee resided on the road leading to Eel 
 River Bridge, and his amiable character and great 
 age, attracted many distinguished visitors on their 
 way to and from the Cape. 
 
 Town Records. These were commenced in 1638, 
 at which time no settlement had been made beyond 
 the town limits — and the Old Colony Records 
 contain most of the municipal regulations which were 
 previously adopted. The first entry in the Town 
 Records relates to a division of cattle w T hich had con- 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 297 
 
 siderably increased from a single heifer, given in 
 1624. to begin a stock for the poor, by James Shirley. 
 Mr. Shirley was one of the Merchant Adventurers of 
 London, an influential and devoted friend of the 
 Colony, as appears from his correspondence with 
 Gov. Bradford. It would be gratifying to learn more 
 of this early benefactor of Plymouth, than history 
 yet affords. It is also desirable, that the recommen- 
 dation of Judge Davis, in a note to the Memorial, 
 should be executed by the town in designating some 
 street or square by his name in token of grateful 
 remembrance. The records of the Town are plainly 
 written, and in a good state of preservation. 
 
 Expenditures of the Town. The appropriations 
 for the year 1746 were as follows, viz. For Schools, 
 $6,000 — Alms House, including repairs, $1700 — 
 Lunatic Hospital, $300 — Assessors, $250 — Sexton 
 $85 — Treasurer and Collector, $250 — Fire Depart- 
 ment, $600 — Discount on Taxes, $400 — Incidental 
 Expenses, $815 — in all, $13,000. 
 
 Military. The improved legislation of the State 
 has judiciously reduced the organization of the mili- 
 tia establishment that formerly existed, and the 
 Standish Guards — a company organized in 1820, in 
 honor of Myles Standish — and the Plymouth Artille- 
 ry Company, compose all the defensive preparation 
 desirable in times of peace. 
 
 Fire Department. The fire department consists 
 of four engines ; having five organized companies, 
 including the hook and ladder company ; the whole 
 
298 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 amounting to 120 men. The length, of hose is 1,000 
 feet, to which an addition is intended the present 
 year. The water by which the engines are supplied 
 is obtained from reservoirs placed at different points 
 of the town. The town has heretofore wonderfully 
 escaped any serious conflagration ; which in a good 
 degree may be ascribed to the careful and orderly 
 habits of our citizens. The fire department as now 
 organized, has shown much skill and energy, on sev- 
 eral occasions within the last three years, when the 
 general safety of the town seemed in great danger. 
 
 Banks. These are three in number. The Plym- 
 outh Bank, incorporated June 4th, 1804 ; capital 
 $100,000; President, Nathaniel M. Davis; Cashier, 
 I. N. Stoddard. 
 
 Old Colony Bank, incorporated Feb., 1832 ; capital 
 $100,000; President, John B. Thomas; Cashier, 
 Schuyler Sampson. 
 
 Plymouth Institution for Savings; Nathaniel Rus- 
 sell, President; Allen Danforth, Treasurer. 
 
 A handsome and commodious brick building was 
 erected a few years since, by all the banks in con- 
 junction; affording them perfectly safe and conven- 
 ient apartments for their offices, 
 
 The Old Colony Insurance Company, having a 
 capital of $50,000, is kept in the same building ; Ezra 
 Finney, President; Allen Danforth, Secretary. 
 
 Trees. The compact settlement of the central 
 part of Plymouth, has left but little room for the cul- 
 tivation of ornamental trees. The elms in Town 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 299 
 
 square, at once appropriate and ornamental, were 
 brought from Portsmouth and set out by the late 
 Thomas Davis, Esq., in the year 1783. The linden 
 trees, so beautiful in summer, in the garden and in 
 front of the dwelling-house now occupied by Abraham 
 Jackson, Esq., in North street, were set out in 1760, 
 by the late George Watson, Esq., having been 
 brought from Nova Scotia. 
 
 Those in front of the dwelling-house owned by the 
 heirs of the late Charles Jackson, Esq., were set out 
 not far from 1760, by Miss Penelope Winslow, whose 
 father, Edward Winslow, Esq., built and owned the 
 house, and afterwards removed to the British Prov- 
 inces. 
 
 The elms at the residence of John Russell, Esq., 
 were set out by the late Samuel Jackson, in 1790. 
 Those standing in the front yard of Nathaniel M. 
 Davis, Esq , were set out in 1783, by the late William 
 Watson, Esq. ; and two in Court Square, by the late 
 Capt. James Nickerson, in 1792. 
 
 Sunday School. This valuable auxiliary to the 
 instructions of the Pulpit, is now connected with all 
 the Churches in town, and the number of children 
 receiving the benefit of their teaching is probably 
 more than 900. The Sabbath day is still regarded 
 with veneration by our citizens, and though relieved 
 fiom something of the gloom connected with its ob- 
 servance in former times, is rarely violated in a man- 
 ner, disturbing the church-going habits of our popu- 
 lation. 
 
300 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 Temperance. This subject excited early atten- 
 tion, and in 1816, an able report of a committee, 
 appointed by the town, appears on the records, sug- 
 gesting various methods to check the progress of 
 intemperance. Those who have labored in this 
 cause, may justly rejoice in the fruit of their perse- 
 vering efforts. Many have been redeemed from the 
 dominion of the most inveterate habits of intemper- 
 ance, which long seemed incorrigible, and now re- 
 joice with joy unspeakable, in the renovation of a 
 new life. 
 
 So far as this cause depends on associated action, 
 it is under the direction of the Sons of Temperance 
 the Washingtonian, and the Martha Washington 
 Societies. Six years ago, spirituous liquors were 
 publicly sold in more than 20 shops in this town, and 
 at the present time not in one. 
 
 Cemetery. Oak Grove Cemetery is situated to the 
 west of the village about 3-4 of a mile from the Court 
 House. It contains 16 acres; possesses much natur- 
 al beauty, and is appropriately laid out with avenues 
 and walks. The corporation was organized May 15, 
 1841. The grove was consecrated Sept. 12th, with 
 religious services and address. About 100 lots have 
 been sold, many of which have been improved and 
 ornamented. 
 
 I. N. Stoddard, President ; Gustavus Gilbert, Sec- 
 retary ; John Perkins, Treasurer. 
 
 Old Colony Rail Road. The completion of 
 this great enterprise, and the opening of the road, 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 301 
 
 occurred on Saturday, the 8th of November, 1845. On 
 this occasion the citizens of Plymouth provided a colla- 
 tion in Pilgrim Hall, which was served to a company of 
 about 500 individuals, from Boston and other parts of 
 the State. The Hon. Nathaniel M. Davis presided 
 over the highly respectable assembly, and the festiv- 
 ities of the short, but exciting occasion, passed off to 
 the great satisfaction of all concerned. Addresses of 
 an interesting character, connected with the progress 
 of improvements in our country, were made by the 
 Hon. John Quincy Adams, Hon. Daniel Webster, 
 and other gentlemen present. 
 
 This road has been well patronized by the public, 
 particularly during the past summer, and while it 
 affords a convenience to the traveler, forms a safe 
 investment of capital. The distances from Boston, 
 on the road, are as follows — Dorchester, 4 miles ; 
 Neponset, 5 1-2; Quincy, 8; N. Braintree, 10; S. 
 Braintree, 11; S. Weymouth, 15 ; N. Abington, 18; 
 Abington, 19 1-4; S. Abington, 21 ; N. Hanson, 23 
 1-4; Hanson, 24 3-4; Halifax, 28; Plympton, 30; 
 Kingston, 33 1-4 ; Plymouth, 37 1-2 miles. 
 
 The cars are constructed on the most approved 
 model and under the care of obliging and vigilant 
 conductors it is gratifying to remark, that no serious 
 accidents have occurred which may justly be ascrib- 
 ed to any deficiency on their part, or that of the pro- 
 prietors of the road. 
 
 Hotels. The Samoset Hotel, erected by the Rail 
 Road proprietors, occupies a most favorable situation 
 23 
 
302 GUIDE TO PLYMOUTH, AND 
 
 at the end of Court street, directly opposite the 
 depot. It commands a fine view of the harbor, bay, 
 and surrounding highlands. In the rear, at a short 
 distance, it has the attractions of hill and woodland* 
 scenery, affording agreeable and convenient walks. 
 It is 50 by 80 feet, constructed in a handsome style 
 of architecture, and of perfect finish in every part. 
 The sleeping apartments are pleasantly situated, and 
 well contrived and furnished in every respect, to 
 promote the comfort of visitors. 
 
 The construction of the hotel is such, that the 
 means of cold, warm, and shower baths, are at any 
 time afforded, when required. The advantage of sea 
 bathing close at hand, is another attraction in sum- 
 mer, which many from the metropolis have perceived 
 and enjoyed during the last season. 
 
 Mr. Joseph Stetson has the charge of this estab- 
 lishment, whose long experience and obliging deport- 
 ment, eminently fit him to promote the comfort of the 
 traveler. 
 
 This establishment has been well pratronized by 
 the traveling community from nearly every part of 
 the Union, during the past summer, and we learn 
 that in all the varied requisites, which constitute the 
 comfort of visitors, it is unsurpassed by any other in 
 the country. 
 
 Newspapers. ' The Plymouth Journal,' edited 
 and printed by N. Coverly, was commenced in March, 
 1785, and continued till June, 1786. It was pub- 
 lished too near the metropolis, to find sufficient 
 
RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PILGRIMS. 303 
 
 encouragement to justify its continuance, particularly 
 at that period of individual embarrassments. The 
 Old Colony arms, four men kneeling, implumed 
 hearts in their hands, on a field quarterly, was its 
 head ornament ; legend, Plymouth, Novanglia, sigil 
 lum societatis, 1620. The motto (selected by Rev. 
 Dr. Robbins,) was, Patrum pietate ortum filioram 
 virt-ute servandum. 
 
 The Old Colony Memorial was commenced in 
 1821, and has been well sustained by our community. 
 The Plymouth Rock, another newspaper, was estab- 
 lished about eight years ago. 
 
 Indian Names. The sources of information re- 
 specting the signification of Indian names, are quite 
 limited. Those in relation to the Colony are mostly 
 derived from the investigations of the late Samuel 
 Davis, Esq. Accomac, Plymouth, or Accaumuck, 
 signifies to go by water, and is applied to places 
 where it is more convenient to go by water than 
 land. Cantaugeanteest, Watson's Hill. Patackosi, the 
 name of Town Brook, from Tackosi, * short, narrow.' 
 Coatuit, the name of half way pond. Agawam, 
 a part of "Wareham. Kitaumet, Manomet Ponds. 
 Cummaquid, Barnstable. Paumit, or Pamet, part of 
 Truro. Mattakeese or Mattachiest, Yarmouth. Mat- 
 takeset, Duxbury. JYauset, Eastham. Namasket, Mid- 
 dleborongh. Monamoy, Chatham. Capaiuack, Mar- 
 tha's Vineyard. Manamooskegin, Abington. Shaume, 
 Sandwich. Satuit. Scituate. 
 
EXPLANATION OF THE ENGRAVINGS. 
 
 The engravings contained in this work have all been executed 
 on copper. The view of Plymouth was taken on an elevation, south 
 of Wellingsly brook about one and a half miles from town, on a 
 scale corresponding with the size of the book, and embraces the 
 beach, harbor, Captain's hill, &c. 
 
 The Allyne house was taken from the life of James Otis, by 
 William Tudor, Esq. This house, as remarked by Mr. Tudor, 
 shows the style of building of respectable families in the latter part 
 of the seventeenth century. It was taken down in 1826, and the 
 Universalist church in Leyden Street now occupies the spot on 
 which it stood. It was occupied by Robert Hicks, merchant, in 
 1645. It was afterwards owned by Edward Gray, who sold it to 
 John Rickard in 1677, and was owned by Rickard till 1750, when it 
 became the property of the Lothrop family, since which time it has 
 always been called the Lothrop House — and was considered the 
 oldest in town. 
 
 In this house the mother of James Otis was born. Erom the 
 Plymouth records it appears, 'that in 1699 Mr. Joseph Allyn, who 
 afterwards moved to Connecticut, married Mary Doten, daughter of 
 Edward, and grand -daughter of Edward Doten, who came in the 
 Mayflower. Their children born in this house, were Elizabeth in 
 1700, Mary in 1702, the latter of whom was the mother of James 
 Otis and a very superior woman. Mr. Otis lived in Plymouth in 
 1748 and 1749, and his name appears on the Court Records as ' of 
 Plymouth.' His office was in the Main street, the north part of the 
 house now occupied by Mrs. Grace H. Goddard. 
 
EXPLANATION OF THE ENGRAVINGS. 305 
 
 The Fuller Cradle, of which the engraving is a perfect copy, 
 according to well authenticated tradition came in the Mayflower, and 
 is now in possession of Jacob Noyes, Esq. of Abington, whose 
 wife, Mrs. Olive Noyes, was the daughter of Reliance Fuller, the 
 daughter of Isaac Fuller, the son of Dr. Isaac Fuller of Middlebo- 
 rough, who was son to Samuel Fuller, the first minister of that place 
 and the son of Dr. Samuel Fuller who arrived in the Mayflower. 
 
 As an evidence of the mutual accommodation afforded on board 
 the Mayflower, the tradition in connection with the cradle still 
 exists in the Fuller family, that Peregrine White received the benefit 
 of its spacious accommodations. 
 
 The Apple Tree, accurately represented in the engraving, was 
 planted by Peregrine White, the first Englishman born in New 
 England, about the year 1648, when he was 28 years of age. Dr. 
 Holmes in his annals, when noticing his death, which occurred in 
 1704, in the 84th year of his age, observes, that 'ninety years after- 
 wards a gentleman sent several large apples to Pres. Styles, from an 
 orchard planted by Peregrine White. Thirty years still later, 
 (1824,) Mrs. Hay ward, (wife of Dr. Hay ward,) [a descendant of 
 Peregrine White, sent me a fair apple from a tree planted by her 
 ancestor.' The writer received a few weeks since, several apples 
 from the same tree. It measures 17 feet in height, and the old trunk 
 now mostly decayed is six feet in length, having a circumference of 
 four and a half feet. 
 
 The fac-similes of the autographs of the Pilgrims, have been 
 obtained expressly for this work, after much labor among ancient 
 deeds and other documents. Their names are as follows : Gov. 
 William Bradford, Gov. Edward Winslow, Gov. Thomas Prince, 
 Capt. Myles Standish, William Brewster, Isaac Allerton, Nathaniel 
 Morton, John Bradford, son of Gov. Bradford by his first wife> 
 Dorothy May, John Winslow, brother of Gov. Edward Winslow, 
 Thomas Cushman, (Elder,) son of Robert Cushman, Constant and 
 Thomas Southworth, the sons of Alice Southworth, the second 
 wife of Gov. Bradford. The autographs of John Alden, John 
 Howland, Francis Eaton, and Phineas Pratt have been obtained, 
 but not in season for this work. Persons having in their possession 
 
 23* 
 
306 EXPLANATION OP THE ENGRAVINGS. 
 
 ancient deeds or other documents which contain the original signa- 
 tures of any who came to Plymouth in either of the three first 
 ships, namely, the Mayflower, Fortune, or Ann, will confer a favor 
 by forwarding them to the writer, by mail or otherwise, which will 
 be returned to the owners or deposited in the Cabinet of the Pil- 
 grim Society, agreeably to their wishes. 
 
 Plymouth, October, 1846. 
 
AIRS OE THE PILGRIMS, 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 The following collection of Hymns and Songs, selected from the 
 productions of our best authors, were mostly composed with express 
 reference to the anniversary celebrations in this town and in other 
 parts of the United States. Several of these have never before 
 been published, others have had quite a limited circulation, and 
 some of the more ancient of them seemed in danger of actual 
 oblivion, copies of which were obtained, not without considerable 
 difficulty, by the aid of obliging friends and correspondents. 
 
 The music to which they were originally sung has been retained, 
 so far as it was known, and appropriate tunes have been obligingly 
 annexed, by B. Brown, Esq. to such as had none previously 
 designated. 
 
 The order of time in which the different pieces were composed 
 has been generally preserved, so far as was practicable, and the 
 collection might have been enlarged by the addition of many valua- 
 ble compositions, necessarily excluded by the narrow limits pre- 
 scribed to the present work. 
 
 The highly valuable religious and moral influences produced on 
 the human mind, through the combined instrumentality of music 
 and poetry, are universally acknowledged, and the compilation is 
 presented to the public with an earnest desire to promote these great 
 objects, and at the same time to afford a variety of appropriate 
 compositions, adapted to use, whenever the descendants of the 
 Pilgrims may assemble, to jjonor the memory of their Fathers. 
 
 W. S. E. 
 
 Plymouth, November, 1846. 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS. 
 
 Page. 
 
 Our Forefather's Song, .... Anonymous, 1 
 
 'A Word to Boston,' Governour Wm. Bradford, 3 
 
 Of Boston in New England, . . Governour Wm. Bradford, 4 
 A Word to New England, . . Governour Wm. Bradford, 5 
 Poetical Description of Trees in New England in 1639, 6 
 Various Kinds of Fish in New England in 1639, ... 7 
 
 Kinds of Shell Fish, 7 
 
 A Poetical Description of Birds, 8 
 
 A Poetical Description of Beasts, 9 
 
 Whaling Song, John Osborne, ..... 9 
 
 The Liberty Song, John Dickinson, .... 12 
 
 Song, Alexander Scammel, ... 15 
 
 New England Hymn, (Music annexed,) 
 
 Rev. Dr. Marther Byles, . 16 
 Ode for the 22d of December, . Hon. John Davis, ... 20 
 
 Hymn for the 22d of Dec, 1799, Anonymous^ 22 
 
 Hymn for the 22d of December, John Quincy Adams, . . 23 
 
 Hymn, Rev. Dr. Holmes, .... 25 
 
 Song, Thomas Greene Fessenden, 26 
 
 The Sainted Sires, A Member of the N. E. Society of New York, 27 
 
VI CONTENTS. 
 
 Original Song, Joseph Warren Brackett, . 29 
 
 Original Song, Peter Hawes, Esq., ... 31 
 
 New England Song, (Music annexed,) 
 
 Samuel F. Brown, Esq., . 36 
 
 A Rock in the Wilderness, . . Anonymous, 38 
 
 Ode, Samuel Davis, Esq., . . 39 
 
 Two Hundred Years Ago, (Music annexed by B. Brown, Esq.,) 
 
 Rev. James Flint, .... 40 
 Ode for Dec. 22d, 1824, .... Rev. J. Pierpont, ... 45 
 Hymn for Dec. 22d, 1824, . . . Rev. William P. Lunt, . . 47 
 
 Lines, Washington Alston, . . 49 
 
 Hymn, Wm. C. Bryant, .... 50 
 
 The Landing of the Pilgrim Sires, Mrs. Hemans, .... 50 
 
 New England, J. G. Percival, 52 
 
 Remembrance of the Pilgrims, 
 
 A Member of the N. E. Society, N. Y., 54 
 
 Clark's Island, Rev. Hersey B. Goodwin, . 55 
 
 Ode, sung at the Celebration in N. York by the N. E. Society, 
 
 Rufus Dawes, .... 56 
 
 Ode, Grenville Mellen, Esq. . . 58 
 
 The Pilgrims, Mrs. Sigourney, .... 61 
 
 The Pilgrim Fathers, Charles Sprague, .... 63 
 
 Song of the Pilgrims, .... T. C. Upham, .... 66 
 
 Original Hymn, Rev. S. Deane, 67 
 
 When this Old Chair was new, Anonymous, 68 
 
 The Pilgrim's Vision, .... Oliver Wendell Holmes, . . 70 
 Ode, Rev. Dr. Samuel Gilman, . 74 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 OUR FOREFATHERS' SONG* 
 
 THE HARDSHIPS AND FARE OF THE FIRST PLANTERS IN NEW ENGLAND. 
 
 Repeated by an old lady, aged 94 years, in 1767. 
 
 New England's annoyances you that would know them, 
 Pray ponder these verses, which briefly do show them. 
 
 The place where we live, is a wilderness wood, 
 Where grass is much wanted that 's fruitful and good; 
 Our mountains and hills, and our valleys below, 
 Are commonly covered with frost and with snow; 
 
 And when the north-west wind with violence blows, 
 Then every man pulls his cap over his nose. 
 But if any 's so hardy, and will it withstand, 
 He forfeits a finger, a foot, or a hand. 
 
 Whene'er the spring opens, we then take the hoe, 
 And make the ground ready to plant and to sow, 
 Our corn being planted, and seed being sown, 
 The worms then destroy much before it is grown. 
 
 * A musical friend informs us that these popular lines would find appropriate music in 
 the old tune of Derry Down. 
 
 1 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 And when it is growing, some spoil there is made, 
 By birds and by squirrels who pluck up the blade ; 
 Even when it is grown to full corn in the ear, 
 It is often destroyed by raccoon and deer. 
 
 And now, too, our garments begin to grow thin, 
 And wool is much wanted to card and to spin ; 
 If we can get garments to cover without, 
 Our other in-garments are * clout upon clout. 
 
 Our clothes we brought with us, are apt to be torn, 
 They need to be clouted soon after they are worn ; 
 But clouting our garments they hinder us nothing, 
 Clouts double are warmer than single whole clothing. 
 
 If fresh meat be wanting to fill up our dish, 
 "We have carrots and turnips whenever we wish, 
 And if we've a mind for a delicate dish, 
 We go to the clam bank, and there we catch fish. 
 
 For pottage, and puddings, and custards, and pies, 
 Our pumpkins, and parsnips, are common supplies ; 
 "We have pumpkin at morning, and pumpkin at noon, 
 If it was not for pumpkin we should be undoon.f 
 
 If barley be wanting to make into malt, 
 "We must be contented and think it no fault ; 
 For we can make liquor to sweeten our lips, 
 Of pumpkins, and parsnips, and walnut-tree chips. 
 
 Now, while some are going, let others be coming, 
 While liquor is boiling it must have a scumming; 
 But I will not blame them, for birds of a feather, 
 By seeking their fellows, are flocking together. 
 
 Then you, whom the Lord intends hither to bring, 
 Forsake not the honey for fear of the sting ; 
 But bring both a quiet and well ordered mind, 
 And all needful blessings you surely will find. 
 * Clout signifies patching. t As they then pronounced undone. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 The following letter directed to the late Ephraim Spooner, Esq. explains the history of 
 
 the above sons: 
 
 Cambridge, Dec. 15th, 1817. 
 Dear and very respected Sir, 
 
 I here send you a curiosity, which I hope and believe will gratify your friends and towns- 
 men at their approaching Anniversary of the landing of our Forefathers. It is a poetical 
 description of the hard fare of our Progenitors soon after they landed on your renowned 
 shore. Who the author was I know not ; nor do I when it was written ; neither have I been 
 informed who the old lady was who repeated these verses in 1767, when 94 years of age. To 
 me it is probable that they were taken down from her mouth, like the ancient poems of 
 Ossian, in Scotland. This paper was~given to me by the late Madame Bowdoin, the worthy 
 wife of my excellent and intimate friend Gov. Bowdoin. I send them to you as a pleasant relic, 
 not merely because I regard you as the Father of the town where you reside, but as a mfirk 
 of that respectful and steady friendship, so long existing between you and your kinsman. 
 
 Benjamin Wateriiouse. 
 
 Note. In the eighth volume of the Mass. Hist. Society, page twenty-nine, 2d Series, 
 published in 1838, the Forefathers' Song may be found, with slight variations from the 
 above copy. In order to adapt it to music, a very few verbal alterations have been made, 
 without, however, impairing its sense or force. The original, forwarded by Dr. Water- 
 house, as mentioned in his letter, varies as much from that published by the Historical Soci- 
 ety, as ours does from either. It was published originally in stanzas of eight lines, which 
 have been separated into those of four lines, for the greater convenience of singing. We 
 copy the following remarks, which accompanied the song as published by the Massachusetts 
 Historical Society, viz. (' Composed about the year 1630, author unknown, taken memori- 
 ter, in 1785, from the lips of an old lady, at the advanced period of 96. There is visibly a 
 break in tJie sense, commencing at the 5th line of the 5th verse: and, through the failure of 
 memory, four lines have been lost, at the latter part of the 5th stanza.') There being some 
 variation between the statement of facts respecting this song as contained in the Mass. Hist. 
 Collections, and that of Dr. Waterhouse in his letter, both as to the age of the old lady, and 
 the time when she repeated it from memory, the latter authority seems to have the preference. 
 
 -o- 
 
 <A WORD TO BOSTON.' 
 
 BY GOVERNOUB WILLIAM BRADFORD. 
 
 In the third volume of the Collections, first series, was published, a ' descriptive and his- 
 torical account of New England, in verse,' by Gov. Bradford, of which Dr. Belknap 
 remarks, 'if it be not graced with the charms of poetry, yet it is a just and affecting 
 narrative, intermixed with pious and useful reflections. Of a like strain are the lines that 
 follow, and as, from the reference to them in the Governor's will, of which we subjoin an 
 extract, they were by him commended to preservation, we rescue them from the original 
 manuscript, where for more than one hundred and sixty years they have remained in 
 obscurity. 
 
 'I commend unto your wisdom and discretion, some small books written by my own 
 hand, to be improved as you shall see meet. In special I commend to you a little booke, with 
 a black cover, wherein there is a word to Plymouth, a word to Boston, and a word to New 
 England; with sundry useful verses.' 'The will was witnessed by Thomas Cushman, 
 Thomas Southworth, and Nathaniel Morton.' 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 OF BOSTON IN NEW ENGLAND. 
 
 0, Boston, though thou now art grown, 
 To be a great and wealthy town, 
 Yet I have seen the a void place, 
 Shrubs and bushes covering thy face ; 
 And house then in thee none were there, 
 Nor such as gold and silk did weare; 
 No drunkeness were then in thee, 
 Nor such excess as now we see. 
 We then drunk freely of thy spring, 
 Without paying of any thing ; 
 We lodged freely where we would, 
 All things were free and nothing sold ; 
 And they that did thee first begin, 
 Had hearts as free and as willing 
 Their poor friends for to entertaine, 
 And never looked at sordid gain. 
 Some thou hast had whom I did know, 
 That spent theirselves to make the grow, 
 And thy foundations they did lay, 
 Which doe remain unto this day 
 When thou wast weak they did thee nurse, 
 Or else with thee it had been worse ; 
 They left thee not, but did defend, 
 And succor thee unto their end. 
 
 Thou now hast growne in wealth and store, 
 Doe not forget that thou wast poore, 
 And lift not up thyself in pride, 
 From truth and justice turn not aside, 
 Remember thou a Cotton had, 
 Which made the hearts of many glad ; 
 What he thee taught bear thou in minde, 
 It's hard another such to finde. 
 A Winthrop once in the was knowne, 
 Who unto thee was as a crowne. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. O 
 
 Such ornaments are very rare, 
 Yet thou enjoyed this blessed pair. 
 But these are gone, their work is done, 
 Their day is past, set is their sun : 
 Yet faithful Wilson still remains, 
 And learned Norton doth take pains : 
 
 Live ye in peace. I could say more. 
 Oppress ye not the weake and poore. 
 The trade is all in your own hand, 
 Take heed ye doe not wrong the land, 
 Lest He that hath lift you on high, 
 When, as the poore to him doe cry, 
 Doe throw you downe from your high state, 
 And make you low and desolate. 
 
 Note. The Words to Plymouth, Boston, and New England, were probably written a 
 short time previous to Gov. Bradford's decease, as allusion is made in them to Gov. Win- 
 throp, who died March 26th, 1G49, and Cotton, who died Dec. 23d, 1652. 
 
 A WORD TO NEW ENGLAND. 
 
 O New England, thou canst not boast; 
 Thy former glory thou hast lost. 
 When Hooker, Winthrop, Cotton died, 
 And many precious ones beside, 
 Thy beauty then it did decay, 
 And still doth languish more away; 
 Love, truth, good-men, mercy and grace, 
 And wealth and the world take their place. 
 Thy open sins none can them hide 
 Fraud, drunkeness, whoredom and pride. 
 The great oppressors slay the poore, 
 But whimsie errors they kill more. 
 Yet some thou hast who mourne and weep, 
 And their garments they unspotted keep ; 
 1* 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Who seek God's honour to maintaine, 
 That true Religion may remaine. 
 These doe invite and sweetly call, 
 Each to other, and say to all, 
 Repent, amend, and turn to God, 
 That we may prevent his sharp rod. 
 Time yet thou hast, improve it well 
 That God's presence may with you dwell. 
 
 THE FOLLOWING IS A POETICAL DESCRIPTION OF 
 
 THE TREES IN NEW ENGLAND, 
 
 WRITTEN IN 1639. 
 
 Trees, both in hills and plains, in plenty be, 
 
 The long-liv'd Oak, and mournful Cyprus tree ; 
 
 Sky-towering Pines, and Chestnuts coated rough, 
 
 The lasting Cedar, with the Walnut tough; 
 
 The rosin dropping Fir for masts in use, 
 
 The boatmen seek for oars, light, neat grown Spruce ; 
 
 The brittle Ash, the ever trembling Asps, 
 
 The broad spread Elm, whose concave harbours wasps; 
 
 The water-spungy Alder, good for nought, 
 
 Small Eldern, by the Indian fletchers sought; 
 
 The knotty Maple, palled Birch, Hawthorns, 
 
 The horn-bound tree that to be cloven scorns, 
 
 Which from the tender vine oft takes his spouse, 
 
 Who twines embracing arms about his boughs. 
 
 Within this Indian orchard fruits be some, 
 
 The ruddy Cherry, and the jetty Plum; 
 
 Snake murthering Hazel, with sweet Saxaphrage, 
 
 Whose spurs in beer allays hot fevers rage ; 
 
 The dear Shumach, with more trees there be 
 
 That are both good to use, and rare to see. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 THE VARIOUS KINDS OF FISH 
 
 TO BE FOUND ON THE COAST OF NEW ENGLAND, 
 POETICALLY DESCRIBED IN 1639. 
 
 The king of waters, the sea shouldering Whale, 
 The snuffing Grampus, with the oily Seal ; 
 The storm presaging Porpus, Herring-Hog, 
 Line shearing Shark, the Catfish and Sea Dog, 
 The scale-fenced Sturgeon, wry-mouthed Hallibut, 
 The flouncing Salmon, Codfish, Greedigut; 
 Cole, Haddick, Hake, the Thornback and the Skate, 
 Whose slimy outside makes him seld' in date; 
 The stately Bass, old Neptune's fleeting post, 
 That tides it out and in from sea to coast; 
 Consorting Herrings and the bony Shad, 
 Big bellied Alewives, Mackerels richly clad, 
 With rainbow colour, the Frostfish and the Smelt, 
 As good as lady Gustus ever felt ; 
 The spotted Lamprons, Eels, the Lamperies, 
 That seek fresh-water brooks with Argus eyes ; 
 These watery villagers, with thousands more, 
 Do pass and repass the verdant shore. 
 
 KINDS OF SHELL-FISH. 
 
 The luscious Lobster, with the Crab-fish raw, 
 The brinish Oyster, Muscle, Perriwig, 
 And Tortoise sought by the Indian's squaw, 
 Which to the flats dance many a winter's jig, 
 To dive for Cockles, and to dig for clams, 
 Whereby her lazy husband's sides she crams. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 A POETICAL DESCRIPTION OF BIRDS. 
 
 WRITTEN IX 1639. 
 
 The princely Eagle and the soaring Hawk, 
 
 Whom in their unknown ways there's none can chalk; 
 
 The Humbird, for some Queens rich cage more fit, 
 
 Than in the vacant wilderness to sit; 
 
 The swift wing'd Swallow sweeping to and fro, 
 
 As swift as arrow from Tartarian bow ; 
 
 When as Aurora's infant day new springs, 
 
 There th' morn mounting Lark her sweet lays sings ; 
 
 The harmonious Trush, swift Pigeon, Turtle Dove, 
 
 Who to her mate does ever constant prove; 
 
 The Turkey-Pheasant, Heathcock, Partridge rare, 
 
 The carrion tearing Crow, and hurtful Stare; 
 
 The long liv'd Raven, th' ominous Screech-Owl, 
 
 Who tells, as old wives say, disasters foul ; 
 
 The drowsy Madge, that leaves her day-loved nest, 
 
 And loves to rove when day-birds be at rest, 
 
 The eel-murthering Hearne, and greedy Cormorant, 
 
 That near the creeks in morish marshes haunt ; 
 
 The bellowing Bitterne, with the long-leged Crane; 
 
 Presaging winters hard, and dearth of grain; 
 
 The silver Swan that tunes her mournful breath, 
 
 To sing the dirge of her approaching death; 
 
 The tattling Oldwives, and the cackling Geese, 
 
 The fearful Gull that shuns the murthering piece, 
 
 The strong-winged Mallard, with the nimble Teal, 
 
 And ill-shaped Loon, who his harsh notes doth squeal; 
 
 There Widgins, Sheldrakes, and Humilitees, 
 
 Snipes, Dippers, Sea Larks, in whole millions flee. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 A DESCRIPTION OF BEASTS IN NEW ENGLAND. 
 
 WRITTEN IN 1639. 
 
 The kingly Lion, and the strong-armed Bear, 
 The large limb'd Mooses, with the tripping Deer; 
 Quill-darting Porcupines, and Raccoons be, 
 Castel'd in the hollow of an aged tree ; 
 The skipping Squirrel, Rabbit, purblind Hare, 
 Immured in the self same castle are, 
 Lest red-eyed Ferret, wily Foxes should 
 Them undermine, if rampir'd but with mould ; 
 The grim-faced Ounce, and ravenous howling Woolf, 
 Whose meagre maw sucks like a swallowing gulf; 
 Black glistering Otters, and rich coated Beaver, 
 The Civet scented Musquash smelling ever. 
 
 WHALING SONG. 
 
 BT JOHN OSBORNE OF SANDWICH, BAENSTABLE COUNTY.* 
 
 Tune, Old Lang Syne. 
 
 When Spring returns with western gales, 
 
 And gentle breezes sweep 
 The ruffling seas, we spread our sails 
 
 To plow the wat'ry deep. 
 
 * John Osborne was born 1713, in Sandwich, Barnstable County, and was graduated at 
 Harvard University, 1735. After leaving college, he spent some time at his father's house in 
 Eastham, where he paid some attention to divinity. He afterwards became a physician, and 
 removed to Middletown, Connecticut. He married about this time. In the year 1753, he 
 •wrote to his sister Sarah, the wife of Ephraim Morton, then living in Plymouth, in which he 
 says, ' We have six children ; the eldest fourteen years old last November, the youngest, 
 two years last January ; the eldest a danghter, the next a son, and so on to the end of the 
 chapter.' He died May 31, 1753, aged 40. His father, Rev. Samuel Osborne, was a native of 
 Ireland and a graduate of Dublin University. He was settled at Eastham, Sept. 18, 1718, and 
 was dismissed in 1738, on account of some difference with his church respecting theological 
 
10 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 For killing northern whales prepared, 
 
 Our nimble boats on board, 
 With craft and rum, (our chief regard) * 
 
 And good provision stord. 
 
 Cape- Cod, our dearest native land 
 
 We leave astern, and lose 
 Its sinking cliffs and lessning sands, 
 
 While zephyr gently blows. 
 
 Bold, hardy men, with blooming age, 
 
 Our sandy shores produce ; 
 With monstrous fish they dare engage, 
 
 And dangerous callings choose. 
 
 Now towards the early dawning east, 
 
 We speed our course away, 
 With eager minds, and joyful hearts, 
 
 To meet the rising day. 
 
 Then as we turn our wond'ring eyes, 
 
 We view one constant show; 
 Above, around, the circling skies; 
 
 The rolling seas blow. 
 
 points, and afterwards removed to Boston, where he opened a private grammar school, 
 which he continued for several years, and died, aged about 90. 
 
 See Eliot's and Allen's Biographical Dictionaries, and Pratt's History of Eastham. 
 
 In a biographical sketch of the author, by Judge Davis, published in the Columbian Cen- 
 tinel, Boston, March 21st, 1787, the Whaling Song is thus noticed: 'He certainly possessed 
 a fine poetical genius, which appears from his Whaling Song, which has been highly cel- 
 ebrated, and which no whaleman ever sings or speaks of without rapture. He also wrote a 
 pathetic elgiack epistle, addressed to one sister on the death of another.' 
 
 * The expressions included in parentheses may, at first sight, excite surprise in the minds 
 of many in this day of Temperance reform ; but when we consider the age in which the song 
 was written, and that the author, in rather a jocose vein, intended to represent a common 
 practice then prevailing in the community, we need not infer that he meant to celebrate as 
 a subject of praise, what is now so generally and justly condemned. From recent informa- 
 tion, we are assured, that many ships in Nantucket and New Bedford commence and pursue 
 their long and arduous voyages, without the use of spirituous liquors in any form, which 
 were once considered an indispensable item of outfit, and which so often proved the source 
 of injury and disaster to all concerned in maritime pursuits. 
 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 When eastward, clear of Newfoundland, 
 
 We stem the frozen pole, 
 We see the icy islands stand, 
 
 The northern billows roll. 
 
 As to the north we make our way, 
 
 Surprising scenes we find ; 
 We lengthen out the tedious day, 
 
 And leave the night behind. 
 
 Now see the northern regions, where 
 
 Eternal winter reigns ; 
 One day and night fills up the year, 
 
 And endless cold maintains. 
 
 We view the monsters of the deep, 
 Great whales in num'rous swarms ; 
 
 And creatures there, that play and leap, 
 Of strange unusual forms. 
 
 When we our wonted station gain, 
 And whales around us play; 
 
 We launch our boats into the main, 
 And swiftly chace our prey. 
 
 In haste we ply our nimble oars, 
 
 For an assault designed : 
 The sea beneath us foams and roars, 
 
 And leaves a wake behind. 
 
 A mighty whale we rush upon, 
 
 And in our irons throw : 
 She sinks her monstrous body down, 
 
 Among the waves below. 
 
 And when she rises out again, 
 
 We soon renew the fight ; 
 Thrust our sharp lances in amain. 
 
 And all her rage excite. 
 
 n 
 
12 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Enraged she makes a mighty bound : 
 
 Thick foams the whiten'd sea ; 
 The waves in circles rise around, 
 
 And wid'ning roll away. 
 
 She thrashes with her tail around, 
 And blows her red'ning breath ; 
 
 She breaks the air, a deaf'ning sound, 
 While ocean groans beneath. 
 
 From num'rous wounds, with crimson flood, 
 
 She stains the frothy seas, 
 And grasps and blows her latest blood 
 
 While quiv'ring life decays. 
 
 With joyful hearts we see her die, 
 
 And on the surface lay ; 
 While all with eager haste apply 
 
 To save our breathless prey. 
 
 When in the hold we her secure, 
 
 And place our bone and oil ; 
 In cans of punch, our sov'reign cure, 
 
 We drown all care and toil. 
 
 A SONG NOW MUCH IN VOGUE IN NORTH AMERICA, SOMETIMES CALLED 
 
 THE LIBERTY SONG. 
 
 BT JOHN DICKINSON, JULY 6TH, 1768. 
 
 Sung at the first Celebration of the Landing of the Forefathers at Plymouth, Dec. 
 22d, 1760, by the O. Colony Club. 
 
 Tune, Hearts of Oak. 
 
 Come, join hand and hand brave Americans all, 
 And rouse your bold hearts at fair Liberty's call ; 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 13 
 
 No tyranous acts shall suppress your just claim, 
 Or stain with dishonor America's name. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 In Freedom we're born, and in Freedom we '11 live; 
 
 Our purses are ready, 
 
 Steady, friends, steady, 
 Not as Slaves, but as Freemen, our money we '11 give. 
 
 Our worthy Forefathers — let 's give 'em a cheer — 
 To climates unknown did courageously steer; 
 Through oceans to deserts for freedom they came, 
 And dying, bequeathed us their freedom and fame. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Their generous bosoms all danger despised, 
 So highly, so wisely, their birthright they prized ; 
 "We '11 keep what they gave, — we will piously keep, 
 Nor frustrate their toils on the land or the deep. 
 
 The Tree their own hands had to liberty reared, 
 They lived to behold growing strong and rever'd ; 
 "With transport they cried, ' Now our wishes we gain, 
 For our children shall gather the fruits of our pain.' 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 How sweet are the labors that Freemen endure, 
 That they shall enjoy all the profits secure. 
 No more such sweet labors Americans know, 
 If Britons shall reap what Americans sow. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Swarms of placemen* and pensioners soon will appear, 
 Like locusts deforming the charms of the year; 
 
 * The ministry have already begun to give away in pensions, the money they lately took 
 out of our pockets, xoithout our consent. 
 
 2 
 
14 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Suns vainly will rise, showers vainly descend, 
 If we are to drudge for what others shall spend. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then join hand in hand, brave Americans all; 
 By uniting we stand, by dividing, we fall ; 
 In so righteous a cause let us hope to succeed, 
 For Heaven approves of each generous deed. 
 
 All ages shall speak with amaze and applause, 
 Of the courage we '11 show in support of our laws ; 
 To die we can bear, but to serve we disdain ; 
 For shame is to Freemen more dreadful than pain. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 This bumper I crown for our Sovereign's health, 
 And this for Britannia's glory and wealth ; 
 That wealth and that glory immortal may be, 
 If she is but just, and we are but free. 
 
 Note. The following letter, enclosing the song, was directed to James Otis, at a period of 
 deep revolutionary interest, and may be found in Tudor's life of that distinguished states- 
 man and patriot. The song was recently discovered among the papers of the late Benjamin 
 If. Watson, Esq. of this town, copied by him, with a memo, appended, stating it to have been 
 sung at the first public celebration of the anniversary, by the O. C. Club, Dec. 22d, 1769. 
 The reader will perceive from the circumstances connected with the composition of this 
 song, and its use by the O. Colony Club, how intimately the spirit and history of the Pil- 
 grims were blended with the feelings and principles developed in the earlier stages of our 
 Revolutionary contest ; and how naturally the struggles, privations and hardships of the first 
 comers, in 1620, formed the school of preparation for Independence in 1776. 
 
 PniLADELrHiA, July 4th, 1768. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 I enclose you a song for American freedom. I have long since renounced Poetry. But as 
 indifferent songs are frequently very powerful on certain occasions, I venture to invoke the 
 deserted muses. I hope that my good intentions will procure pardon with those I wish to 
 please, for the boldness of my numbers. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 15 
 
 My worthy friend, Dr. Arthur Lee, a gentleman of distinguished family, abilities and 
 patriotism, in Virginia, composed eight lines of it. 
 
 Cardinal de Retz always enforced his political operations by songs. 
 
 I wish our attempt may be useful. I shall be glad to hear from you, if you have a mo- 
 ment's leisure to scribble a line to, dear Sir, your most affectionate, most obedient servant 
 
 JOHX DlCKtJS'SON. 
 
 -o- 
 
 SONG. 
 
 BY ALEXANDER SCAMMEL. 
 
 Sung at the Celebration, by the Old Colony Club, in 1770. 
 Tune, British Hero. 
 
 All hail the day that ushers in, 
 
 The period of revolving time, 
 
 In which our sires of glorious fame, 
 
 Bravely through toils and dangers came, 
 
 Novanglia's wilds to civilize, 
 
 And wild disorder harmonize, 
 
 To plant Britannia's Arts and Arms, 
 
 Plenty, peace, freedom, pleasing charms, 
 
 Derived from British rights and laws, 
 That justly merit our applause, 
 Darlings of Heaven, heroes brave, 
 You still shall live though in the grave. 
 
 Live, live, within each grateful breast, 
 With reverence for your names possessed; 
 Your praises on our Tongues shall dwell, 
 And sires to sons your actions tell. 
 
16 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 To distant poles their praise resound, 
 Let virtue be with glory crowned, 
 Ye dreary wilds, each rock and cave, 
 Echo the virtues of the brave. 
 
 They nobly braved their indigence, 
 Death, famine, sword, and pestilence, 
 Each toil, each danger they endured, 
 Til for their sons they had procured, 
 
 A fertile soil, profusely blest 
 
 With Nature's stores, and now possessed 
 
 By sons who gratefully revere, 
 
 Our Fathers' names and memories dear, 
 
 Plymouth the great Mausoleum, 
 Famous for our Forefathers Tomb, 
 Join, join the chorus one and all, 
 Resound their deeds, in Colony Hall. 
 
 -O — 
 
 NEW ENGLAND HYMN. 
 
 BY THE EEV. DB. MAETHEE BTLES. 
 
 Adapted to the Tune America, as publislied in Billing's ' Collection o/3fusic.' 1770. 
 
 To Thee the tuneful Anthem Soars, 
 To thee, our Father's God, and our's ; 
 
 This wilderness we chose our Seat : 
 To Rights Secured by Equal Laws 
 From Persecution's Iron Claws, 
 
 We here have sought our calm Retreat. 
 
AMERICA. P. M. 
 
 fllpiiiglill 
 
 1. To Thee the tune - ful Anthem soars* 
 
 Hl^ Q i ll- i TpTT i -£+ i I I — F 
 
 2. See! how the Flocks of Je - sus rise! 
 
 P-^iW- z l zzzz ^ z 3l zzz F^ z cl^ zz r^~ z ^ 
 
 1. Lord, guard thy fa - vors ; Lord, extend 
 
 =~?S:$:ft::tzE=ttz£=:zz?izzz=ti:2=E 
 
 :z?:^:{|zg:t:tzczpziz-+ 
 
 To Thee, our Fath - er's 
 
 :szi 
 
 See! how the face of 
 
 :2z:^za: 
 
 — ^^ 
 
 God, and ours ; 
 
 
 Par - - a - dise 
 
 
 %y 
 
 Where farther 
 
 west-ern suns descend ; 
 
 111 
 
 "iifigisifc 
 
 ^lEi^qSfE; 
 
CONTINUED. 
 
 This wil - der - ness we chose our seat : 
 Blooms through the thick-ets of 
 
 the wild! 
 
 :~;e: 
 
 m=-° 
 
 -p—p- 
 
 i — ( — 2 f^-# : #- 
 
 S£ 
 
 m 
 
 Nor south - ern seas the blessings bound; 
 
 km 
 
 i- 5 ^ — *-©■ -S-l — i — r- 
 
 i — r g fe 
 
 ElBE!E?±EEtEgEEEEEl=l 
 
 To rights se - - cured by e - qual laws, 
 
 < 
 
 =feP 
 
 _ Ta .r # r ( 2_ 
 
 I~y^ E EEEfe^EEte*:E±l 
 
 Here Lib - er - - - - ty e - rects her throne; 
 OS ■ i-t -s; r | t - — "- — j t»-#-^- yj t g t 
 
 Till Free-dom lift 
 
 her cheer - ful head, 
 
 
CONTINUED. 
 
 V 
 
 
 :gz^rforg=q-q=: 
 
 :pr:p=E::z:t-dz:^i:i 
 
 From per - se - - - cution's i - - ron claws, 
 
 iliiiiiiillil 
 
 Here plen-ty pours her treas-ures down ; 
 
 * 
 
 :ai2=^iz:-z:=z=lr=:q=:i]= 
 
 #:p: 
 
 ■#H 
 
 Till pure re li - gion on - ward spread 
 
 & 
 
 #— 5 
 
 — IF--j — 
 
 i^ ggt^gg 
 
 We here have sought our calm 
 
 2 
 retreat. 
 
 I 
 
 l~EEiS=cEHztEEEEEEiE:EEEiEB 
 
 Peace smiles, as heavenly 
 
 * 
 
 :q==jrr):pgr^ 
 
 And beam-ing, wrap the 
 
 cherubs mild. 
 
 globe around. 
 
 £ 
 
 :P=J 
 
 
 P*: 
 
 2t:z: 
 
 y 
 
20 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 See ! how the Flocks of Jesus rise ! 
 See ! how the Face of Paradise 
 
 Blooms through the Thickets of the Wild ! 
 Here Liberty erects her Throne ; 
 Here Plenty pours her Treasures down ; 
 
 Peace smiles, as Heavenly Cherubs mild. 
 
 Lord, guard thy Favors ; Lord, extend 
 Where farther Western Suns descend : 
 
 Nor Southern Seas the blessings bound ; 
 Till Freedom lift her chearful Head, 
 Till pure Religion onward spread, 
 
 And beaming, wrap the Globe around. 
 
 ODE FOR THE 22d DECEMBER. 
 
 BY HOX. JOHX DAVI8. 
 
 Composed for the Anniversary Festival, 1792. 
 Tcxe —America* 
 
 Sons of renowned sires 
 Join in harmonious choirs 
 
 Swell your loud songs; 
 Daughters of peerless dames, 
 Come with your mild acclaims, 
 Let their revered names, 
 
 Dwell on your tongues. 
 
 * This Ode was originally sung to the tune of ' God save the King,' and the same air will 
 be recognized in the one above annexed. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 21 
 
 From frowning albion's seat, 
 See the famed band retreat, 
 
 On ocean tost ; 
 Blue tumbling billows roar, 
 By keel scarce ploughed before, 
 And bear them to this shore, 
 Fettered with frost. 
 
 By yon wave beaten rock 
 See the illustrious flock, 
 
 Collected stand ; 
 To seek some sheltering grove, 
 Their faithful partners move, 
 Dear pledges of their love, 
 
 In either hand. 
 
 Not winter's sullen face, 
 Not the fierce tawny race 
 
 In arms arrayed ; 
 Not hunger shook their faith, 
 Not sickness' baleful breath, 
 Nor Carver's early death 
 
 Their souls dismayed. 
 
 Watered by heavenly dew, 
 The Germ of Empire grew, 
 
 Freedom its root ; 
 From the cold northern pine, 
 Far Tow'rd the burning line, 
 Spreads the luxuriant vine, 
 
 Bending with fruit. 
 
 Columbia, child of heaven, 
 The best of blessings given, 
 Be thine to greet ; 
 
22 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Hailing this votive day, 
 Looking with fond survey, 
 Upon the weary way, 
 Of Pilgrim feet. 
 
 Here trace the moss-grown stones, 
 Where rest their mould'ring hones, 
 
 Again to rise ; 
 And let thy sons be led, 
 To emulate the dead, 
 While o'er their tombs they tread 
 
 With moisten'd eyes. 
 
 Note. This copy has received the revisal of the venerable author of the composition, and 
 is entirely conformable to the original, excepting in the fifth verse, in which a variation has 
 been recently introduced by him. 
 
 HYMN FOR THE 22d OF DECEMBER, 1799. 
 
 Tukk, Old Hundred. 
 
 Hail, Pilgrim Fathers of our race ! 
 With grateful hearts your toils we trace ; 
 Again this Votive Day returns, 
 And finds us bending o'er your urns. 
 
 Jehovah's arm prepared the road ; 
 The Heathen vanish'd at his nod : 
 He gave his Vine a lasting root ; 
 He loads his goodly boughs with fruit. 
 
 The hills are cover'd with its shade ; 
 Its thousand shoots like cedars spread ; 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 23 
 
 Its branches to the sea expand, 
 And reach to broad Superior's strand. 
 
 Of peace and truth the gladsome ray 
 Smiles in our skies and cheers the day ; 
 And a new Empire's splendent wheels, 
 Roll o'er the top of western hills. 
 
 Hail, Pilgrim Fathers of our race ! 
 With grateful hearts your toils we trace ; 
 Oft as this Votive Day returns, 
 We'll pay due honors to your urns. 
 
 O 
 
 HYMN FOR THE 22d OF DECEMBER. 
 
 JOHN QUINCY ADAMS. 
 
 Tune, Ferry. 
 
 When o'er the billows heaving deep, 
 
 The Fathers of our race, 
 The precepts of their God to keep, 
 
 Sought here their resting place, 
 
 That gracious God their path prepared, 
 
 Preserved from every harm, 
 And still for their protection bared 
 
 His everlasting arm. 
 
 His breath, inspiring every gale, 
 
 Impels them o'er the main, 
 His guardian angel spreads the sail, 
 
 And tempests howl in vain. 
 
24 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 For them old ocean's rocks are smoothed ; 
 
 December's face grows mild ; 
 To vernal airs her blasts are soothed, 
 
 And all their rage beguiled. 
 
 When Famine rolls her haggard eyes, 
 
 His ever bounteous hand 
 Abundance from the sea supplies, 
 
 And treasure from the sand. 
 
 Nor yet his tender mercies cease, 
 
 His orer ruling plan 
 Inclines to gentleness and peace 
 
 The heart of savage man. 
 
 And can our stoney bosoms be 
 To all these wonders blind, 
 
 Nor swell with thankfulness to Thee, 
 O Parent of mankind 1 
 
 All gracious God, inflame our zeal ; 
 
 Dispense one blessing more ; 
 Grant us thy boundless love to feel, 
 
 Thy goodness to adore. 
 
 Note. The following extract from a letter of the venerable author of this Hymn, was 
 received in answer to a request, for a copy : ' Washington, 10th March, 1846. On the 22d of 
 December, 1802, 1 delivered at Plymouth the Anniversary Discourse on the Landing of the 
 Pilgrims in 1620. In the morning of that same day, before rising from bed, I composed this 
 Hymn. A scruple of doubt whether it would be deemed worthy of the occasion, restrained 
 me from producing it at that time. At the next celebration, in 1803, 1 was not present ; but 
 I had given a copy to my inestimable friend, Judge Davis, and it was then sung among the 
 services of the day. In an account of them, a few days after, in the Boston Centinel, it was 
 first published.' 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 25 
 
 HYMN. 
 
 BT EEV. DB. HOLMES. 
 
 Sung, at the 186th Anniversary of the Landing of the Fathers at Plymouth, 
 December 22d, 1806. 
 
 Tune, Old Hundred. 
 
 Our Fathers' God! to Thee we raise, 
 With one accord, the song of praise; 
 To Thee our grateful tribute pay, 
 Oft as returns this festal day. 
 
 With tearful eyes we here will trace 
 Thy wonders to the Pilgrim race, 
 And while those wonders we explore, 
 Their names extol, Thy name adore. 
 
 Our Fathers' God! Thy own decree 
 Ordain'd the Pilgrims to be free ; 
 In foreign lands they own'd thy care, 
 And found a safe asylum there. 
 
 When the wide main they travers'd o'er, 
 And landed on this sea-beat shore, 
 The Pigrim's Rock must e'er proclaim 
 Thy guardian care was still the same. 
 
 Our Fathers' God! while here we trace 
 Our lineage to the Pilgrim race, 
 O may we like those Pilgrims live, 
 And in the sons the sires revive. 
 
 Our Fathers' God ! to Thee we raise, 
 With one accord, the song of praise ; 
 To Thee our grateful tribute pay, 
 Oft as returns this festal day. 
 3 
 
26 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 SONG. 
 
 BY THOMAS GBEENE FESSBNDEN-. 
 
 Sung at the Celebration by tbe New England Society, Dec. 22d, 1806. 
 Tune, Hail Columbia. 
 
 The Almighty gave the high behest — 
 
 Rise an Empire in the West, 
 Freedom's loved and last abode, 
 Freedom's loved and last abode. 
 
 Our fathers bowed to his decree, 
 
 And dauntless braved an unknown sea — 
 Climb'd the foaming precipice, 
 Plunged adown the black abyss, 
 Where the maddening tempest raves, 
 Where meet the sky the mountain waves. 
 
 Sons of freedom swell the song ; 
 To sainted sires the notes prolong, 
 'Till the echoing skies around, 
 Sound the trumpet-tone rebound. 
 
 Lo ! the heaven protected band 
 Seeks the forest fringed strand ; 
 Roars the rough hybernal blast, 
 Roars the rough hybernal blast. 
 Countless perils wait them here, 
 Sickness pale and famine drear — 
 Pining want and dire disease 
 Float in every blasting breeze; 
 Desolation's ghastly form 
 Rides in every death-wing'd storm. 
 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 27 
 
 Murd'rous hordes of savage foes 
 Round the pious pilgrims rose, 
 
 "With flinty hearts and blood-stained hands, 
 
 With flinty hearts and blood-stained hands. 
 From horrors haunts, in wilds immense, 
 Lo! the gloomy bands condense — 
 
 Hark! the war-hoop's frantic yell 
 
 Bursts from yonder dismal dell; 
 
 Savage forms of demons dire 
 
 Wrap the Pilgrims' camp in fire. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Sons, &c. 
 
 The God at whose behest 
 Rose an Empire in the West — 
 
 Freedom's loved and last abode, 
 
 Freedom's loved and last abode — 
 Protected still, with mighty hand, 
 The Pilgrims in a barbarous land : 
 
 Raise the song of festive mirth 
 
 To those who gave an Empire birth; 
 
 Their names and memories shall rest 
 
 Enthroned in every freeman's breast. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Sons, &c. 
 
 THE SAINTED SIRES. 
 
 BY A MEMBER OF THE HEW ENGLAND SOCIETY, OF NEW YOEK. 
 
 Tune, Anacreon in Heaven. 
 
 While Pilgrims' sons, a festive throng, 
 To sainted sires their homage pay, 
 
28 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Be this the burthen — the burthen of their song, 
 And rapture animate the lay: 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Hail ye Pilgrims ! 
 Ye sainted Pilgrims, hail! 
 Till hours, and years, and time shall fail. 
 
 By heroes led, by virtue warm'd, 
 Conducted by th' Almighty hand, 
 They brav'd the ocean — the ocean and the storm. 
 And freedom sought in unknown land. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Hail ye Pilgrims ! &c. 
 
 The perils of the ocean past, 
 Fresh dangers quickly them surround ; 
 Shrill screams the savage — the savage o'er the blast, 
 And rocks and hills repeat the sound. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Hail ye Pilgrims ! &c. 
 
 The barb'rous foe to battle fly, 
 Intent on bloody deeds and spoil, 
 Swift flies the arrow — the arrow through the sky, 
 But vict'ry crowns the Pilgrim's toil. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Hail ye Pilgrims ! &c. 
 
 Success attend the good and brave ; 
 The meed of praise to them belongs, 
 Virtue shall triumph — shall triumph o'er the grave, 
 And angels join their rapturous songs. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Hail ye Pilgrims ! 
 Ye sainted Pilgrims, hail! 
 When earth, and sky, and time shall fail. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 29 
 
 ORIGINAL SONG. 
 
 BY JOSEPH -WAKEEN BEACKETT, ESQ. 
 
 Sung before tne N. E. Society, in New York, Dec. 22d, 1807. 
 Tune, Anacreon in Heaven. 
 
 Hail ! sons of the Pilgrims, assembled to pay 
 
 Festivity's rite to our Fathers in Glory! 
 May the ardor of friendship enliven the lay, 
 And their virtues be told, while we glow with the story, 
 "With the patriot's fire, 
 Be enflam'd each desire, 
 To all that is noble, each bosom aspire; 
 For, long as old earth on her axle shall turn, 
 On the altars of freemen pure incense should burn. 
 
 ^Yhen tyranny bigotry's banners upreared, 
 
 Those fathers, for conscience, for freedom, self-ban ish'd, 
 Confiding in Heaven, o'er the wild billow steer'd, 
 And in Holland found refuge, while bigotry vanished: 
 There, strangers awhile, 
 From their friends — from their Isle, 
 See them sojourn in hope, — in adversity smile ; 
 Till raising again the white sail to the wind, 
 They plough the rough main, their own region to find. 
 
 Long tossing in doubt, o'er the wildering wave, 
 The pilot yet timid to brave the commotion ; 
 Them hailing to freedom, from perils to save, 
 Columbia display'd her blue skirt from the ocean. 
 In Plymouth they land 
 On the bleak barren strand, 
 Yet they're strong in their shield — an omnipotent hand : 
 For there, to their wand'rings, a period they find, 
 And their brows with the laurels of freedom first bind. 
 3* 
 
30 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 The savage his quiver exhausted in vain ; 
 
 He rose — but his tomahawk idle descended: 
 Independent, the Pilgrims mov'd free o'er the plain; 
 Magnanimity nerv'd them — their bravery defended: 
 Tho' environ'd by foes, 
 They found calm repose, 
 While the wilderness blossom'd and smil'd like the rose : 
 Till late to the grave, as they smoothly declin'd, 
 To their offspring, their virtue, a birthright resign'd. 
 
 When Albion their heirs to enslave vainly strove, 
 
 When lunatic Gallia committed agression, 
 They lowr'd in the combat — the assailants hence drove, 
 Independence they won — of their rights kept possession. 
 Then oft will we tell, 
 In the feast of the shell, 
 The deeds of their fame, 'till with transport we swell ; 
 And teach the sweet infant, that smiles on his sire, 
 To pant for like fame, and to glow with like fire. 
 
 Tho' society's base were by faction assaii'd, 
 
 Or the bane of our safety, by flatt'ry were varnish'd ; 
 Tho' the vet'ran be seen in his hamlet unmail'd — 
 Retir'd from the Council, his laurels untarnish'd: 
 Yet the foe on our coast, 
 Lo ! he flies to his post; 
 His valor impels — in himself he's a host: 
 And with him the sons of New England shall fly, 
 Resolv'd to live honor'd, or nobly to die. 
 
 Yes, now from the East see aggression impend ! 
 
 Ye ven'rable shades, your remembrance shall fire us ; 
 Our rights shall be sacred — our laws we '11 defend; 
 Our union shall strengthen — true glory inspire us : 
 Iftheboltbebuthurl'd, 
 Shall our flags be unfurl'd; 
 Tho'/eu>, yet their fame shall extend o'er the world, 
 
AIRS OP THE PILGRIMS. 31 
 
 While the honors, and laurels, that deck our brave tars, 
 Shall end but with time, and but fade with the stars ! 
 
 Thus, oft in our pilgrimage, mem'ry shall glow, 
 
 As the tale of the past comes with pleasure attendant ; 
 And the boast of our nation, latest ages shall know — 
 Our Fathers in Glory — their sons Independent! 
 Then glad be your song 
 Ye convivial throng ; 
 Roll, roll the full chorus of rapture along: 
 For, long as old earth on her axle shall turn, 
 On the altars of freemen pure incense must burn. 
 
 O — 
 
 ORIGINAL SONG. 
 
 BY PETER HAWES, ESQ. 
 
 Sang before the New England Society in New York, December 22d, 1807. 
 Tune, Yankee Doodle. 
 
 If, Yankees, you would have a song, 
 
 A deuced nation fine one, 
 Then in the chorus all along, 
 
 I guess you'd like to join one. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle, one and all, 
 Pass 'round the chorus handy; 
 
 For some can sing, and all can bawl, 
 Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 Our grandsires liv'd a great way ofF, 
 
 And if you think to doubt it, 
 And I had only time enough, 
 
 I 'd tell you all about it. 
 
32 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle, roar away, 
 And keep the chorus handy ; 
 
 For some can sing, and all can say, 
 Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 I 'd tell you all, how hard they were 
 
 For tithes an,d taxes hunted, 
 And how they did n't think 't was fair, 
 
 And how they got affronted. 
 
 CHORU8. 
 
 But Yankee Doodle, all once more, 
 Keep up the chorus handy, 
 
 For some can sing and all can roar, 
 Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 And how of what might them befal, 
 
 They nothing were afraid in, 
 So took their wives and children all, 
 
 And off they push'd for Leyden. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle, one and all, 
 Struck up the chorus handy, 
 
 As loud as they could sing and bawl, 
 Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 And there they got a monstrous ship, 
 
 As big as any Gun Boat, 
 And all to fit her for a trip 
 
 I guess was nicely done to 't. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle all aboard! 
 
 Pip'd out the Boatswain handy, 
 And young and old struck up and roar'd, 
 
 Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Then ev'ry man, he seiz'd a rope, 
 
 And pull'd with all his soul, sir, 
 And haul'd the Tow-cloth all way up, 
 
 And ti'd it to the Pole, sir. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle now they go 
 All in their ship so handy, 
 
 And sing All-saints, Old Hundred too, 
 And Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 But when they got away from shore, 
 And 'fore the wind did streak it, 
 
 And heard the ocean billows roar, 
 I guess they did n't like it. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 But Yankee Doodle, never mind, 
 Strike up the chorus handy, 
 
 They 'd left th' oppressors far behind, 
 So Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 And there they saw a great big fish 
 That thrash'd about his tail, sir, 
 
 And look so deuced saucyish, 
 I guess it was a whale, sir. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 But Yankee Doodle let him go, 
 All in the deep so handy, 
 
 While we above and he below 
 Sing Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 But now a dreadful storm arose, 
 And dang'rous case they stood in, 
 
 And hail, and rain, and sleet, and snows, 
 Fell thick as Hasty Pudding! 
 
 33 
 
34 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 But, foul or fair, we 're stout and strong, 
 In ev'ry lot we 're handy ; 
 
 Then join the chorus, and the song, 
 Of Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 The billows they roll'd up on high, 
 
 Enough the ship to fill, sir, 
 And toss'd the vessel at the sky, 
 
 As high as 'Chusett Hill, sir. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 But Yankee Doodle, that 's the thing 
 At which we're always handy ; 
 
 For, high or low, we '11 always sing, 
 Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 And now this noble ship, once more, 
 
 As staunch as ever man trod, 
 Approach'd the sandy, desert shore, 
 
 And landed them on Cape Cod. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle, all again 
 Join'd in the chorus handy, 
 
 And sung aloud with might and main, 
 Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 When all were safely landed so, 
 Our grand-daddies and grand-dams, 
 
 And Sail, and Sue, and Bill, and Joe, 
 All had a feast on sand-elams ! 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle, all, you know, 
 Join'd in the chorus handy, 
 
 And Sail, and Sue, and Bill, and Joe, 
 Sung Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 35 
 
 To keep the bears and panthers out, 
 
 And not less savage wild-man, 
 Of white pine logs each built a hut, 
 
 As big as Father's Hog- Pen ! 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle let them come, 
 
 They' 11 always find us handy 
 With musket balls instead of rum, 
 
 So Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 They planted fields enclos'd with stakes, 
 
 And work'd like dogs or asses ; 
 Made pumpkin pies and indian cakes, 
 
 And ate them up with 'lasses. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle, one and all, 
 
 Join'd in the chorus handy, 
 As loud as they could sing and bawl, 
 
 Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 And ev'ry day for many weeks, 
 
 Beginning on each Monday, 
 They watch'd and woik'd and fought like Greeks 
 
 And went to church on Sunday. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 For Yankee Doodle, heroes great 
 
 In all good works are handy ; 
 In peace, or war, in church, or state, 
 
 They 're Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
 SECOND CHORUS. 
 
 Then Yankee Doodle, all once more, 
 
 Join in the chorus handy, 
 As loud as you can sing and roar, 
 
 Yankee Doodle Dandy. 
 
36 AIRS OF THE PILGRIM3. 
 
 NEW ENGLAND SONG. 
 
 COMPOSED IK 1311 BY SAMUEL F. BKOWN, ESQ. OF BUCKFIELD, MAINE. 
 
 When our fathers of yore, hove in sight of this shore, 
 
 And the sailors were first heard to sing land, 
 From their cabin, so hamper'd, on deck they all scamper'd r 
 To take the first peep at New England : 
 The rough rugged shores of New England ; 
 The wild woods and rocks of New England : * 
 So, pleased with the view, they directly hove to, 
 And they capered ashore in Neio England. 
 
 They tore up the soil, with abundance of toil, 
 And they soon made a beautiful green land; 
 And they planted a tree, which they called Libeity r 
 In the generous soil of New England. 
 It flourished and grew in New England : 
 Its branches spread over Neio England : 
 And under its shadow our fathers have had, O ! 
 The richest of joys in New England. 
 
 But Mr. John Bull, who would lord it in full, 
 
 Came out in a rage from Old England, 
 And swore that this tree no longer should be 
 Found growing so high in New England: 
 That it never belonged to New England : 
 Though it already bloomed in New England : 
 So we soon came to blows ; with a huge bloody nose, 
 He was glad to pack off from New England. 
 
 Next came Monsieur Frank, all so nimble and crank, 
 
 Who thought o'er the world he should swing hand ; 
 From rabble and robbery to kick up a bobbery, 
 'Mong the peaceable folks of New Eigland : 
 To sow his wild oats in New England : 
 To sap the fair tree of New England : 
 
NEW ENGLAND. 
 
 A song composed in 1811, by Samuel F. Broivn, Esq. 
 of Buckfield, Maine. 
 
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 When our fathers of yore hove in sight of 
 
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38 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 The beef and the cod of New England : 
 To our tight little navy he soon cried pecavi, 
 And he capered away from New England. 
 
 Now we've peace all around, and with joy we abound, 
 
 Our rights are secured in this free land; 
 Let 's all be united, for all are delighted 
 With the manners of men of New England : 
 
 The fields and the brooks of New England : 
 The beef and the cod of New England : 
 Our Army and Navy w r ill send to Old Davy 
 The foes to the rights of New England. 
 
 HYMN. 
 
 AUTHOR UNKNOWN. 
 
 Tune, Lyons. 
 
 + 
 
 A rock in the wilderness welcomed our sires, 
 From bondage far over the dark rolling sea ; 
 
 On that holy altar they kindled the fires, 
 Jehovah, which glow in our bosoms for thee. 
 
 Thy blessings descended in sunshine and shower, 
 Or rose from the soil that was sown by thy hand; 
 
 The mountain and valley rejoiced in thy power, 
 And heaven encircled and smiled on the land. 
 
 The Pilgrims of old an example have given 
 
 Of mild resignation, devotion and love, 
 Which beams like the star in the blue vault of Heaven, 
 
 A beacon-light hung in the mansions above. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 39 
 
 In church and cathedral we kneel in our prayer, 
 Their temple and chapel were valley and hill ; 
 
 But God is the same in the aisle, or the air, 
 And he is the Rock that we lean upon still. 
 
 O 
 
 OD E, 
 
 BY SAMUEL DAVIS. 
 
 Tune, St. Martins ob Avid Lang Syne. 
 
 Let children learn the mighty deeds, 
 Their Sires achieved of old ; 
 
 And still, as time to time succeeds, 
 To them the tale unfold. 
 
 Here while we fondly trace the scene 
 
 This joyous day recalls, 
 Let youth with reverend age convene 
 
 Within these hallowed walls. 
 
 Their pious toils, their just rewards, 
 
 Returning tributes claim, 
 While faithful history records 
 
 Each venerable name. 
 
 Here first the temple's votive fane, 
 Aspiring, sought the skies, 
 
 And here Religion's exiled train 
 Bade sacred altars rise. 
 
 No longer now the roaming hords 
 
 Unhallowed vigils keep; 
 No more affrighted mothers guard 
 
 Their cradled infants sleep : 
 
40 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 But social arts and peaceful homes 
 
 This favored land endear, 
 Where fields and masts and rising domes, 
 
 With scattered grace, appear. 
 
 Let musing strangers view the ground, 
 Here seek tradition's lore, 
 
 Where Pilgrims walked on holy ground, 
 With God in days of yore ; 
 
 And where around the savage tribe, 
 Alarmed with horrid yells, 
 
 Assembling crowds secure imbibe 
 What holy legend tells. 
 
 Let children emulate their deeds, 
 Their choral praises sing ; 
 
 So shall the muse, as time proceeds, 
 Her meed of incense bring. 
 
 TWO HUNDRED YEARS AGO. 
 
 The following Song, composed by Ebv. Dr. Flint, for the occasion, was sung at 
 the Public Dinner at Plymouth, on the 22d of December, 1820. 
 
 Come, listen to my story, 
 
 Though often told before, 
 Of men who pass'd to glory, 
 
 Through toil and travail sore ; 
 Of men who did for conscience sake 
 
 Their native land forego, 
 And sought a home and freedom here 
 
 Two hwndred years ago. 
 
TWO HUNDRED YEARS AGO. 
 
 A song written by Rev. James Flint, D. D. of 
 
 Salem, Mass. for the Centennial Celebration at 
 
 Plymouth, 1820. Music by b. brown, Esq. 
 
 ANDANTE. 
 
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 Two hundred years a go, Two hundred years a- 
 
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AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 43 
 
 O, 't was no earth-born passion, 
 
 That bade the adventurers stray; 
 The world and all its fashion, 
 
 With them had passed away. 
 A voice from Heaven bade them look 
 
 Above the things below, 
 When here they sought a resting-place 
 
 Two hundred years ago. 
 
 0, dark the scene and dreary, 
 
 When here they set them down ; 
 Of storms and billows weary, 
 
 And chill'd with winter's frown. 
 Deep moan'd the forests to the wind, 
 
 Loud howl'd the savage foe, 
 While here their evening prayer arose 
 
 Two hundred years ago. 
 
 'T would drown the heart in sorrow 
 
 To tell of all their woes; 
 No respite could they borrow, 
 
 But from the grave's repose. 
 Yet nought could daunt the Pilgrim Band 
 
 Or sink their courage low, 
 Who came to plant the Gospel here 
 
 Two hundred years ago. 
 
 With humble prayer and fasting, 
 
 In every strait and grief, 
 They sought the Everlasting, 
 
 And found a sure relief. 
 Their cov'nant God o'ershadow'd them, 
 
 Their shield from every foe, 
 And gave them here a dwelling place 
 
 Two hundred years ago. 
 
44 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Of fair New England's glory, 
 
 They laid the corner-stone ; 
 This praise, in deathless story, 
 
 Their grateful sons shall own. 
 Prophetic they foresaw in time, 
 
 A mighty state should grow, 
 From them a few, faint Pilgrims here, 
 
 Two himdred years ago. 
 
 If greatness be in daring, 
 
 Our Pilgrim Sires were great, 
 Whose sojourn here, unsparing, 
 
 Disease and famine wait ; 
 And oft their treach'rous foes combin'd 
 
 To lay the strangers low, 
 [ While founding here their commonwealth 
 
 Two hundred years ago. 
 
 Though seeming over-zealous, 
 
 In things by us deem'd light, 
 They were but duly jealous 
 
 Of power usurping right. 
 They nobly chose to part with all 
 
 Most dear to men below, 
 To worship here their God in peace 
 
 Two himdred years ago. 
 
 From seeds they sowed with weeping, 
 
 Our richest harvests rise, 
 We still the fruits are reaping 
 
 Of Pilgrim enterprise. 
 Then grateful we to them will pay 
 
 The debt of fame we owe, 
 Who planted here the tree of life 
 
 Two himdred years ago. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 45 
 
 As comes this period yearly, 
 
 Around our cheerful fires, 
 We '11 think and tell how dearly 
 
 Our comforts cost our sires. 
 For them will wake the votive song, 
 
 And bid the canvass glow, 
 Who fix'd the home of freedom here 
 
 Two hundred years ago. 
 
 -O 
 
 ODE 
 
 For the Celebration of the Anniversary of the Pilgrim Society of Plymouth. 
 December 22d, 1824. 
 
 BY EEV. J. PIEBPOHT. 
 
 The pilgrim fathers — where are they % 
 
 The waves that brought them o'er 
 Still roll in the bay, and throw their spray, 
 
 As they break along the shore : 
 Still roll in the bay, as they rolled that day 
 
 When the Mayflower moored below, 
 When the sea around was black with storms, 
 
 And white the shore with snow. 
 
 The mists, that wrapped the pilgrim's sleep, 
 
 Still brood upon the tide ; 
 And his rocks yet keep their watch by the deep, 
 
 To stay its waves of pride; 
 But the snow-white sail, that he gave to the gale 
 
 When the heavens looked dark, is gone : — 
 As an angel's wing, through an opening cloud, 
 
 Is seen, and then withdrawn. 
 
46 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 The pilgrim exile — sainted name ! 
 
 The hill, whose icy brow 
 Rejoiced, when he came, in the morning's flame, 
 
 In the morning's flame burns now. 
 And the moon's cold light as it lay that night 
 
 On the hill-side and the sea, 
 Still lies where he laid his houseless head ; — 
 
 But the pilgrim — where is he % 
 
 The pilgrim fathers are at rest : 
 
 When Summer's throned on high, 
 And the world's warm breast is in verdure dressed 
 
 Go, stand on the hill where they lie. 
 The earliest ray of the golden day 
 
 On that hallowed spot is cast ; 
 And the evening sun, as he leaves the world, 
 
 Looks kindly on that spot last. 
 
 The pilgrim spirit has not fled : 
 
 It walks in noon's broad light; 
 And it watches the bed of the glorious dead, 
 
 With the holy stars, by night. 
 It watches the bed of the brave who have bled, 
 
 And shall guard this ice-bound shore, 
 Till the waves of the bay, where the Mayflower lay, 
 
 Shall foam and freeze no more. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 47 
 
 HYMN. 
 
 Sung at Pilgrim Hall at the Celebration of 1824. 
 
 COMPOSED BY WILLIAM P. LCNT. 
 
 Tcke, Bruce's Address, Scots wha ha, frc. 
 
 Holy spot! where glowing choirs, 
 Oft have wakened grateful lyres, 
 Oft have kindled grateful fires, 
 
 O'er the Pilgrim's grave ; 
 
 Once again we press the shore, 
 Where our Fathers sternly swore, 
 Ocean should forget to roar, 
 
 Ere they would be slaves. 
 
 Hail the dawn when Freedom's rays 
 Hushed Columbia's icy face ; 
 Sweeter strains arise of praise, 
 
 Than from Memnon's harp. 
 
 Hail the spot — our Sires' retreat ! 
 Hail the waves that round them beat, 
 Hail the Rock that bore their feet, 
 
 When their wanderings ceased. 
 
 Fancy paints in yonder bay 
 
 The bark that broke the Pilgrim's way, 
 
 The Cradle where our nation lay 
 
 In her infant days. 
 
 See the boat approach the land, 
 Freighted with the pious band, 
 See they kneel upon the strand, 
 
 Warm with gratitude. 
 
48 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Vent your fury wind and flood, 
 Freedom's bark is safely moored, 
 Freedom's sons with hearts assured 
 
 Now their work begin. 
 
 Gloomy scenes await the brave ; 
 Savage foes around them rave ; 
 Carver fills an early grave, 
 
 Hope well nigh expires. 
 
 But to Faith's reluming eye, 
 Visions bright in prospect lie ; 
 E'en a triumph 'twere to die, 
 
 If in conscience free. 
 
 Still above the sacred dead, 
 Future crowds shall yearly tread; 
 Blooming youth and hoary head, 
 
 Meet around their urns. 
 
 Oft shall Genius' fluent tongue, 
 Trace the story, swell the song; 
 Oft amidst the listening throng 
 
 Thrill the feeling soul. 
 
 Ye who 've sprung from noble blood, 
 Men who spurned the Tyrant's rod, 
 Men who bowed to none but God, 
 
 Here your vows repeat: 
 
 * By their pious shades we swear, 
 By their toils and perils here, 
 We will guard with jealous care, 
 
 Law and Liberty.' 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 LINES. 
 
 WASHINGTON ALLSTON. 
 
 Though ages long have past, 
 
 Since our fathers left their home, 
 Their pilot in the blast, 
 
 O'er untravelled seas to roam, — 
 Yet lives the blood of England in our veins : 
 And shall we not proclaim, 
 That blood of honest fame, 
 Which no tyranny can tame, 
 
 By its chains ? 
 
 "While the language free and bold, 
 
 Which the bard of Avon sung, 
 In which our Milton told, 
 
 How the vault of Heaven rung 
 When Satan, blasted, fell with all his host; 
 While these, with reverence meet, 
 Ten thousand echoes greet, 
 And from rock to rock repeat, 
 
 Round our coast; 
 
 While the manners, while the arts, 
 
 That mould a nation's soul, 
 Still cling around our hearts, 
 Between, let ocean roll, 
 Our joint communion breaking with the sun ; 
 Yet still from either beach, 
 The voice of blood shall reach 
 More audible than speech, 
 
 We are one.* 
 
 * This alludes merely to the moral union of the two countries. The author would not have 
 it supposed that the tribute of respect, offered in these stanzas to the land of his ancestors, 
 would be paid by him, if at the expense of the independence of that which gave him birth. 
 
 5 
 
50 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 HYMN. 
 
 BY W. C. BBYANT. 
 
 Wild was the day; the wintry sea 
 Moaned sadly on New England's strand. 
 
 When first, the thoughtful and the free, 
 Our fathers, trod the desert land. 
 
 They little thought how pure a light 
 With years, should gather round that day ; 
 
 How love should keep their memories bright, 
 How wide a realm their sons should sway. 
 
 Green are their bays ; and greener still 
 Shall round their spreading fame be wreathed, 
 
 And regions now untrod, shall thrill 
 With reverence, when their names are breathed. 
 
 Till where the sun, with softer fires, 
 
 Looks on the vast Pacific's sleep, 
 The children of the pilgrim sires, 
 
 This hallowed day like us shall keep. 
 
 THE LANDING OF THE PILGRIM FATHERS. 
 
 BY MBS. IIEMANS. 
 
 The breaking waves dashed high 
 On a stern and rock-bound coast 
 
 And the woods, against a stormy sky 
 Their giant branches tost ; 
 
 And the heavy night hung dark, 
 The hills and waters o'er, 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 51 
 
 When a band of exiles moored their bark 
 On the wild New England shore. 
 
 Not as the conqueror comes, 
 
 They, the true-hearted came, 
 Not with the roll of the stirring drums, 
 
 And the trumpet that sings of fame ; 
 
 Not as the flying come, 
 
 In silence and in fear, — 
 They shook the depths of the desert's gloom 
 
 With their hymns of lofty cheer. 
 
 Amidst the storm they sang, 
 
 And the stars heard and the sea ! 
 And the sounding aisles of the dim woods rang 
 
 To the anthem of the free ! 
 
 The ocean-eagle soared, 
 
 From his nest by the white wave's foam, 
 And the rocking pines of the forest roared — 
 
 This was their welcome home ! 
 
 There were men with hoary hair, 
 
 Amidst that pilgrim-band, 
 Why had they come to wither there 
 
 Away from their childhood's land 1 
 
 There was woman's fearless eye, 
 
 Lit by her deep love's truth ; 
 There was manhood's brow serenely high, 
 
 And the fiery heart of youth. 
 
 What sought they thus afar ? 
 
 Bright jewels of the mine 1 
 The wealth of seas, the spoils of war? 
 
 — They sought a faith's pure shrine ! 
 
52 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Aye, call it holy ground, 
 
 The soil where first they trod ! 
 They have left unstain'd what there they found — 
 Freedom to worship God ! 
 
 These glorious verses will find an echo in the breast of every true descendant of the Pil- 
 grims, and give their authoress a place in many hearts. She has laid our community under 
 a common obligation of gratitude. Every one must feel the sublimity and poetical truth, 
 with which she has conceived the scene presented, and the inspiration of that deep and 
 holy strain of sentiment, which sounds forth like the pealing of an organ. 
 
 Mrs. Hemans' Poetical Works, p. 270. 
 
 NEW ENGLAND. 
 
 BV J. G. PBECIVAL. 
 
 Hail to the land whereon we tread, 
 
 Our fondest boast; 
 The sepulchre of mighty dead, 
 The truest hearts that ever bled, 
 Who sleep on Glory's brightest bed, 
 
 A fearless host : 
 No slave is here; our unchained feet 
 Walk freely as the waves that beat 
 
 Our coast. 
 
 Our fathers crossed the ocean's wave 
 
 To seek this shore ; 
 They left behind the coward slave 
 To welter in his living grave ; — 
 With hearts unbent, and spirits brave, 
 
 They sternly bore 
 Such toils as meaner souls had quelled; 
 But souls like these, such toils impelled 
 
 To soar. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 53 
 
 Hail to the morn, when first they stood 
 
 On Bunker's height, 
 And, fearless, stemmed the invading flood, 
 And wrote our dearest rights in blood, 
 And mowed in ranks the hireling brood, 
 
 In desperate fight ! 
 O, 'twas a proud, exulting day, 
 For even our fallen fortunes lay 
 
 In light. 
 
 There is no other land like thee, 
 
 No dearer shore ; 
 Thou art the shelter of the free ; 
 The home, the port of Liberty, 
 Thou hast been, and shalt ever be, 
 
 Till time is o'er. 
 Ere I forget to think upon 
 My land, shall mother curse the son 
 
 She bore. 
 
 Thou art the firm, unshaken rock, 
 
 On which we rest ; 
 And, rising from thy hardy stock, 
 Thy sons the tyrants frown shall mock, 
 And Slavery's galling chains unlock, 
 
 And free the oppressed : 
 All, who the wreath of Freedom twine 
 Beneath the shadow of their vine, 
 
 Are blessed. 
 
 We love thy rude and rocky shore, 
 
 And here we stand — 
 Let foreign navies hasten o'er, 
 And on our heads their fury pour, 
 And peal their cannon's loudest roar, 
 
 And storm our land ; 
 5* 
 
54 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 They still shall find our lives are given 
 To die for home ; — and leant on Heaven 
 Our hand. 
 
 REMEMBRANCE OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 By a Member of tlie New England Society of New York. 
 
 With joy I heard them say 
 "When roving far abroad, 
 On this their landing day 
 We '11 praise the Pilgrims' God. 
 I knew the cry 
 I'll join the song, 
 Thy courts we '11 throng 
 O thou most High ! 
 
 This day let all awake, 
 
 And sing the mighty dead, 
 Who, first, for Zion's sake, 
 O'er raging oceans fled. 
 Had not our God 
 Preserved that flock, 
 Safe on the rock 
 They ne'er had trod. 
 
 At once their temples rose, 
 
 Our schools were founded then, 
 Nor could their mightier foes 
 Withstand those valiant men : 
 But vain their skill, 
 And vain their sword, 
 Had not the Lord 
 Upheld them still. 
 
AIRS OP THE PILGRIMS. 55 
 
 Peace to that Holy ground! 
 
 That consecrated spot ! 
 The first our fathers found 
 Where tyrants trouble not. 
 We' 11 sound abroad, 
 Where e'er we roam, 
 The Pilgrims' home, 
 The Pilgrims' God ! 
 
 CLARK'S ISLAND. 
 
 BY HENRY B. GOODWIN. 
 
 Hail hallowed spot ! where Freedom's rays 
 First darted o'er the wanderer's ways, 
 
 And gave him rest, 
 First brought the dawn of brighter days, 
 
 Thy shores are blest! 
 
 But dark the clouds that lingered round 
 The island which the Pilgrim found 
 
 In time long gone, 
 And deep and drear the thrilling sound 
 
 Of gathering storm. 
 
 Aye, dark indeed, whose night of yore, 
 That rocked the May-Flower near thy shore 
 
 On wintry tides, 
 For dark the waves that round thee roar, 
 
 And wash thy sides. ' 
 
56 AIRS OP THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 But bright the star that lent its ray- 
 To bear the Traveller on his way 
 
 From childhood's seat, 
 That lighted up so fair a day 
 
 For his retreat. 
 
 O who would ask a holier bed, 
 Than where he laid his weary head, 
 
 And nobly slept, 
 For though the Pilgrim long hath fled 
 
 His spirit 's left. 
 
 Then hail the spot, where first the sound 
 Of Freedom shook the sacred ground 
 
 In early days, 
 And filled the hills and forests round 
 
 With gladsome praise. 
 
 ODE. 
 
 Written for the thirty-fourth Anniversary of the New England Society of New Tcrk. 
 
 BY BUFUS DAWES. 
 
 Tukb, God save the King. 
 
 Sons of New England sires! 
 "Why do your altar-fires 
 
 Flame up on high ; — 
 Why from your festal board, 
 Wakes the loud anthem, pour'd 
 Joyous, with one accord, 
 
 Wing'dforthesky? — 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 57 
 
 Not for the voice that spoke 
 Triumph — when Britain's yoke 
 
 Burst with your chains: — 
 Not for the heroes brave, 
 Bleeding by Charles's wave, 
 Not for the patriot's grave, 
 
 Wake ye your strains ; — 
 
 But for the Pilgrim-band, 
 They who from Leyden's land 
 
 Dared the rough sea ; 
 Braving the ocean vast, 
 Scorning the wintry blast, 
 So they might find, at last, 
 
 Room for the free. 
 
 Hark, how the thunder peals ! 
 See, how the brave ship reels, 
 
 Whirl'd in the brine ! — 
 Courage ! — the God that w T ears 
 Storm-robes, the good-man spares, 
 Pilgrim ! — he hears your prayers, — 
 
 Joy to your line ! 
 
 Nobly the May-flower bows, 
 "While the dark wave she ploughs 
 
 On to the West ; 
 Till, from the tempest's shock, 
 Proudly she lands her flock, — 
 Where on old Plymouth-Rock, 
 
 Freedom found rest. 
 
 Lo ! from yon starry sphere, 
 Spirits in light appear, 
 Glorious, but few ; — 
 
58 
 
 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Pilgrims! — we see you now — 
 Fathers ! — to you we bow — 
 Hear, then, your children's vow, 
 Still to be true. 
 
 Join, brothers, heart and hand, 
 Sons of the Pilgrim-band! 
 
 Swear now to be 
 All that your fathers sought, — 
 All that their virtue wrought, — 
 So shall your sons be taught 
 
 How to be free ! 
 
 o- 
 
 ODE 
 
 For the Celebration of the Landing of the Pilgrims, by the New England Society, 
 New York, December 22d, 1832. 
 
 BY GRENYILLE MELLEN, ESQ. 
 
 Tune, Iddo. 
 
 Not all the loftiest memories 
 
 That rose on earlier days, 
 When with the trump, and sacrifice, 
 
 And swelling pomp of praise, 
 Men gather'd to their pillar'd halls, 
 
 Mid garlands, joy and wine, 
 To gaze on heroes round the walls, 
 
 In marble made divine, — 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 59 
 
 And pour the deep libation there, 
 
 To victors pass'd away ; 
 Or minds, whose wonders, rich and rare, 
 
 Pour'd splendor on their day — 
 Not all in finer hearts, can vie 
 
 With those that summon here, 
 To lift, on Freedom's clarion high 
 
 The anthem of our cheer! 
 
 We sing a nobler race than pass'd 
 
 In ancient times to glory : — 
 We sing of deeds that shall outlast, 
 
 In fame, all classic story ; 
 Of men who fought for God, and gave 
 
 Home for a desert shore — 
 With hearts too panoplied and brave 
 
 To quail beneath its roar ! 
 
 Of Exiles of a deathless line, 
 
 And proud, unshrinking brow ; — 
 Lone Pilgrims to a rocky shrine, 
 
 Where a people bends them now ! — 
 A rocky shrine — unshelter'd — rude — 
 
 Where the wild wolf from his lair, 
 Shriek'd thro' the pathless solitude, 
 
 And broke the voice of prayer ! 
 
 We sing of heroes who outdid 
 
 The boast of chivalry : 
 Whose valor braved the shock amid 
 
 A stormy sea and sky ; 
 Whose deeds were deeds of mercy, done 
 
 To persecuted man — 
 Whose wreaths were wreaths of triumph, won 
 
 In Virtue's fearless van ! 
 
60 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 New England's Fathers! — men who dar'd 
 
 The agony of years — 
 Whom pale Oppression never spar'd, 
 
 But could not bow to tears ! 
 Who mid the howl of winter fled, 
 
 And your banner here unfurl'd, 
 And Conscience in her pride outled 
 
 Unfetter'd to the world ! 
 
 Pilgrims of Glory ! — there shall rise 
 Fast praise from heart and tongue 
 
 Of all. for whom in sacrifice, 
 Like martyr-saints ye sprung; — 
 
 And their children's children shall outpour 
 From echoing clime to clime, 
 
 New paeans for the toils ye bore 
 
 < In a nation's morning time. 
 
 Two hundred years their cloudy wings 
 
 Expand above your graves, 
 And lo ! what wide-flush'd glory flings 
 
 O'er all New England's waves! — 
 Fathers of Liberty ! — to ye 
 
 We lift the wine-cup now — 
 Your's be the hallow'd memory 
 
 That consecrates our vow. 
 
 And should the voice of prophecy 
 
 That 's doom'd us to the dust, 
 Ere chant the requiem of the Free, 
 
 By tyranny accurs'd, 
 O be a remnant true to her! — 
 
 Sons whom New England bore, 
 Together seek one sepulchre 
 
 On Plymouth's sounding shore! 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 61 
 
 THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 BY MKS. SIGOURNEY. 
 
 How slow yon tiny vessel ploughs the main ! 
 Amid the heavy billows now she seems 
 A toiling atom, — then from wave to wave 
 Leaps madly, by the tempest lashed, — or reels, 
 Half wrecked, through gulfs profound. 
 
 — Moons wax and wane, 
 But still that lonely traveller treads the deep. — 
 I see an ice-bound coast, toward which she steers 
 With such a tardy movement, that it seems 
 Stern Winter's hand hath turned her keel to stone, 
 And sealed his victory on her slippery shrouds. — 
 They land ! — They land ! — not like the Genoese, 
 With glittering sword, and gaudy train, and eye 
 Kindling with golden fancies. — Forth they come 
 From their long prison, — hardy forms, that brave 
 The world's unkindness, — men of hoary hair, 
 And virgins of firm heart, and matrons grave, 
 Who hush the wailing infant with a glance. — 
 Bleak Nature's desolation wraps them round, 
 Eternal forests, and unyielding earth, 
 And savage men, who through the thickets peer 
 With vengeful arrow. — What could lure their steps 
 To this drear desert ? — Ask of him who left 
 His father's home to roam through Haran's wilds, 
 Distrusting not the Guide who called him forth, 
 Nor doubting, though a stranger, that his seed 
 Should be as Ocean's sands. — 
 
 But yon lone bark 
 Hath spread her parting sail. 
 
 They crowd the strand, 
 Those few, lone pilgrims. — Can ye scan the wo 
 That wrings their bosoms, as the last frail link 
 6 
 
62 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 Binding to man, and habitable earth. 
 Is severed ? — Can ye tell what pangs were there, 
 "What keen regrets, what sickness of the heart, 
 What yearnings o'er their forfeit land of birth, 
 Their distant dear ones ? 
 
 Long, with straining eye, 
 They watch the lessening speck. — Heard ye no shriek 
 Of anguish, when that bitter loneliness 
 Sank down into their bosoms ? — No ! they turn 
 Back to their dreary, famished huts, and pray ! — 
 Pray, — and the ills that haunt this transient life 
 Fade into air. — Up in each girded breast 
 There sprang a rooted and mysterious strength, — 
 A loftiness, — to face a world in arms, — 
 To strip the pomp from sceptres, — and to lay 
 Upon the sacred altar the warm blood 
 Of slain affections, when they rise between 
 The soul and God. — 
 
 And can ye deem it strange 
 That from their planting such a branch should bloom 
 As nations envy'? — Would a germ, embalmed 
 With prayer's pure tear-drops, strike no deeper root 
 Than that which mad ambition's hand doth strew 
 Upon the winds, to reap the winds again ? 
 Hid by its veil of waters from the hand 
 Of greedy Europe, their bold vine spread forth 
 In giant strength. — 
 
 Its early clusters, crushed 
 In England's wine-press, gave the tyrant host 
 
 A draught of deadly wine. O, ye who boast 
 
 In your free veins the blood of sires like these, 
 Lose not their lineaments. — Should Mammon cling 
 Too close around your heart, — or wealth beget 
 That bloated luxury which eats the core 
 From manly virtue, — or the tempting world 
 Make faint the Christian purpose in your soul, 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 63 
 
 Turn ye to Plymouth's beach, — and on that rock 
 Kneel in their foot-prints, and renew the vow 
 They breathed to God. 
 
 THE PILGRIM FATHERS. 
 
 They come — that coming who shall tell ? 
 The eye may weep, the heart may swell, 
 But the poor tongue in vain essays 
 A fitting note for them to raise. 
 We hear the after-shout that rings 
 For them who smote the power of kings ; 
 The swelling triumph all would share ; 
 But who the dark defeat would dare, 
 And boldly meet the wrath and wo, 
 That wait the unsuccessful blow ! 
 It were an envied fate, we deem, 
 To live a land's recorded theme, 
 
 When we are in the tomb. 
 We, too, might yield the joys of home, 
 And waves of winter darkness roam, 
 
 And tread a shore of bloom, 
 Knew we those waves, through coming time, 
 Should roll our names to every clime; 
 Felt we that millions on that shore 
 Should stand, our memory to adore. 
 But no glad vision burst in light 
 Upon the pilgrims' aching sight; 
 Their hearts no proud hereafter swelled ; 
 Deep shadows veiled the way they held ; 
 
64 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 The yell of vengeance was the trump of fame: 
 Their monument, a grave without a name. 
 
 Yet, strong in weakness, there they stand, 
 
 On yonder ice-bound rock, 
 Stern and resolved, that faithful band, 
 
 To meet fate's rudest shock. 
 Though anguish rends ,the father's breast, 
 For them, his dearest and his best, 
 
 With him the waste who trod — 
 Though tears that freeze, the mother sheds 
 Upon her children's houseless heads — 
 
 The Christian turns to God ! 
 
 In grateful adoration now, 
 
 Upon the barren sands they bow. 
 
 What tongue of joy e'er woke such prayer 
 
 As bursts in desolation there ! 
 
 What arm of strength e'er wrought such power 
 
 As waits to crown that feeble hour ! 
 
 There into life an infant empire springs ! 
 There falls the iron from the soul ; 
 There Liberty's young accents roll 
 
 Up to the King of kings ! 
 To fair creation's farthest bound, 
 That thrilling summons yet shall sound; 
 The dreaming nations shall awake, 
 And to their centre earth's old kingdoms shake. 
 Pontiff and prince, your sway 
 Must crumble from that day; 
 Before the loftier throne of Heaven, 
 The hand is raised, the pledge is given, 
 One monarch to obey, one creed to own — 
 That monarch, God, that creed, his word alone. 
 
 Spread out earth's holiest records here, 
 Of days and deeds to reverence dear, 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 65 
 
 A zeal like this what pious legends tell ! 
 On kingdoms built 
 In blood and guilt, 
 The worshippers of vulgar triumph dwell ; 
 
 But what exploits with theirs shall page, 
 
 Who rose to bless their kind, 
 Who left their nation and their age, 
 Man's spirit to unbind ! 
 Who boundless seas passed o'er, 
 And boldly met, in every path, 
 Famine, and frost, and heathen wrath, 
 
 To dedicate a shore, 
 Where Piety's meek train might breathe their vow, 
 And seek their Maker with an un shamed brow ; 
 Where Liberty's glad race might proudly come, 
 And set up there an everlasting home! 
 O, many a time it hath been told, 
 The story of those men of old : 
 For this fair Poetry hath wreathed 
 
 Her sweetest, purest flower ; 
 For this proud Eloquence hath breathed 
 
 His strain of loftiest power : 
 Devotion, too, hath lingered round 
 Each spot of consecrated ground, 
 
 And hill and valley blessed ; 
 There, where our banished fathers strayed, 
 There, where they loved, and wept, and prayed, 
 There, where their ashes rest. 
 
 And never may they rest unsung, 
 While Liberty can find a tongue. 
 Twine, Gratitude, a wreath for them, 
 More deathless than the diadem, 
 Who to life's noblest end, 
 
 Gave up life's noblest powers, 
 And bade the legacy descend, 
 Down, down to us and ours. 
 6* 
 
66 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 SONG OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 BT T. C. TJPHAM. 
 
 The breeze has swelled the whitening sail, 
 The blue waves curl beneath the gale, 
 And, bounding with the wave and wind, 
 We leave old England's shores behind. 
 Leave behind our native shore, 
 Homes, and all we loved before. 
 
 The deep may dash, the winds may blow, 
 The storm spread out its wings of wo, 
 Till sailors' eyes can see a shroud 
 Hung in the folds of every cloud ; 
 Still, as long as life shall last, 
 From that shore we'll speed us fast. 
 
 For we would rather never be, 
 Than dwell where mind cannot be free, 
 But bows beneath a despot's rod 
 Even where it seeks to worship God. 
 
 Blasts of heaven, onward sweep ! 
 
 Bear us o'er the troubled deep ! 
 
 O, see what wonders meet our eyes ! 
 
 Another land, and other skies ! 
 
 Columbian hills have met our view ! 
 
 Adieu ! Old England's shores, adieu ! 
 Here, at length, our feet shall rest, 
 Hearts be free, and homes be blessed. 
 
 As long as yonder firs shall spread 
 Their green arms o'er the mountain's head 
 As long as yonder cliffs shall stand, 
 Where join the ocean and the land, — 
 
 Shall those cliffs and mountains be 
 
 Proud retreats for liberty. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 67 
 
 Now to the King of kings we '11 raise 
 The paean loud of sacred praise; 
 More loud than sounds the swelling breeze, 
 More loud than speak the rolling seas ! 
 
 Happier lands have met our view ! 
 
 England's shores, adieu! adieu! 
 
 ORIGINAL HYMN. 
 
 By the Bxv. S. Dbanjc, for tiie 23d of Dec, IK 
 Tune, Tamworth. 
 
 Lo ! the rising star of Freedom 
 
 Once our pilgrim fathers blest; 
 By her light, ordained to lead them, 
 To the land of promised rest. 
 Star of heaven ! 
 Star of heaven ! 
 Trav'ling toward the distant west. 
 
 While their countless toils enduring, 
 
 Faith the promise kept in sight : 
 
 For themselves and sons securing, 
 
 Home and country, truth and light. 
 
 Star of heaven ! 
 
 Star of heaven ! 
 
 Pointing to Jehovah's might. 
 
 Now the relics round us lying, 
 Grateful children guard their clay ! 
 
68 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 While their spirits, never dying, 
 Hope has borne on wings away : 
 
 Star of heaven ! 
 
 Star of heaven ! 
 Guiding to a brighter day. 
 
 Raise we honors to their merit, 
 
 Temples sculptured with their name ! 
 No ! their virtues to inherit, 
 
 Seals their bright and conscious fame. 
 Star of heaven ! 
 Star of heaven ! 
 High they shine with ceaseless flame. 
 
 See the lights around us gleaming, 
 Still to guide the pilgrims' eyes : 
 See the star of empire beaming, 
 Bids their children's glory rise. 
 Star of heaven ! 
 Star of heaven ! 
 Glowing still in western skies. 
 
 SONG. 
 
 When this old chair was new, 
 
 The manners of the times, 
 I now will bring to view, 
 
 Take heed unto my rhymes. 
 One hundred years and more, 
 
 If history be true, 
 Since our forefathers came ashore, 
 
 When this old chair was new. 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 69 
 
 They reared an humble roof, 
 
 All pleasant to the sight, 
 Their ship was far aloof, 
 
 It caught on fire at night. 
 Cold lodgings on the ground, 
 
 Oft made their hearts to rue, 
 "While deadly arrows flew around 
 
 When this old ehair was new. 
 
 No neighborhood was theirs 
 
 Save natives of the land, 
 And many wants and cares, 
 
 And winter was at hand. 
 Good neighborhood's sincerity, 
 
 They never failed to show, 
 Their daily word was verity 
 
 When this old chair was new. 
 
 4 
 
 Their bread on waters cast, 
 
 In future blessings found, 
 While hardships knit 'em fast 
 
 Still bade 'em yet abound. 
 Full humble were their meals, 
 
 Their dainties very few, 
 'T was only groundnuts, clams or eels, 
 
 When this old chair was new. 
 
 Their greeting very soft, 
 
 Good morrow very kind, 
 How sweet it sounded oft, 
 
 Before we were refined. 
 Humility their care, 
 
 Their failings very few, 
 My heart! how kind their manners were, 
 
 When this old chair was new. 
 
70 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 THE PILGRIM'S VISION. 
 
 Composed for the Celebration at Plymouth, Dec. 22d, 1846. 
 
 BT OLITKB WENDELL HOLMES. 
 
 In the hour of twilight shadows 
 
 The Puritan looked out ; 
 He thought of the ' bloody Salvages ' 
 
 That lurked all round about — 
 Of Wituwawmet's pictured knife, 
 
 And Pecksuot's whooping shout; 
 For the baby's flesh was tender, 
 
 Though his father's arms were stout. 
 
 His home was a freezing cabin, 
 
 Too bare for the hungry rat ; 
 Its roof was thatched with ragged grass, 
 
 And bald enough of that. 
 The hole that served for casement 
 
 Was glazed with an ancient hat ; 
 And the ice was gently thawing 
 
 From the log whereon he sat. 
 
 Along the dreary landscape, 
 
 His eyes went to and fro ; 
 The trees all clad in icicles, 
 
 The streams that did not flow. 
 A sudden thought flashed o'er him — 
 
 A dream of long ago — 
 He smote his leathern jerkin, 
 
 And murmured, * Even so ! ' 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 71' 
 
 ' Come hither, God-be- Glorified, 
 
 And sit upon my knee; 
 Behold the dream unfolding, 
 
 Whereof I spake to thee 
 By the winter's hearth, in Leyden, 
 
 And on the stormy sea, 
 True is the dream's beginning, 
 
 So may its ending be! 
 
 ' I saw in the naked /orest, 
 
 Our scattered remnant cast ; 
 A screen of shivering branches 
 
 Between them and the blast ; 
 The snow was falling round them, 
 
 The dying fell as fast ; 
 I looked to see them perish, 
 
 When, lo ! the vision passed. 
 
 ' Again mine eyes were opened, 
 
 The feeble had waxed strong; 
 The babes had grown to sturdy men, 
 
 The remnant was a throng. 
 By shadowed lake, and winding stream, 
 
 And all the shores along, 
 The howling demons quaked to hear 
 
 The Christian's godly song. 
 
 ' They slept — the village fathers — 
 
 By river, lake, and shore ; 
 When, far adown the steep of time, 
 
 The vision rose once more. 
 I saw, along the winter snow, 
 
 A spectral column pour ; 
 And, high above their broken ranks, 
 
 A tattered flag they bore. 
 
72 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 ' Their leader rode before them, 
 
 Of bearing calm and high ; 
 The light of Heaven's own kindling 
 
 Throned in his awful eye. 
 These were a Nation's champions, 
 
 Her dread appeal to try ; 
 God for the right! I faltered, 
 
 And, lo ! the train passed by. 
 
 ' Once more — the strife was ended, 
 
 The solemn issue tried ; 
 The Lord of Hosts, his mighty arm 
 
 Had helped our Israel's side. 
 Gray stone, and grassy hillock, 
 
 Told where the martyrs died; 
 And peace was in the borders 
 
 Of Victory's chosen bride. 
 
 4 A crash — as when some swollen cloud 
 
 Cracks o'er the tangled trees ! 
 With side to side, and spar to spar, 
 
 Whose smoking decks are these? 
 I know St. George's blood-red cross, 
 
 Thou Mistress of the Seas, 
 But who is she whose streaming bars 
 
 Roll out before the breeze ? 
 
 ( Ah, well her iron ribs are knit, 
 
 Whose thunders strive to quell 
 The bellowing throats, the blazing lips 
 
 That pealed the Armada's knell ! 
 The mist was cleared — a wreath of stars 
 
 Rose o'er the crimsoned swell, 
 And wavering from its haughty peak, 
 
 The cross of England fell ! 
 
AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 73 
 
 Oh trembling Faith ! though dark the morn, 
 
 A heavenly torch is thine ; 
 While feebler races melt away, 
 
 And paler orbs decline, 
 Shall still the fiery pillar's ray 
 
 Along thy path-way shine, 
 To light the chosen tribe that sought 
 
 This Western Palestine. 
 
 I see the living tide roll on, 
 
 It crowns with flaming towers 
 The icy cape of Labrador, 
 
 The Spaniard's • land of flowers,' 
 It streams beyond the splintered ridge 
 
 That parts the northern shores, 
 From Eastern rock to sunset wave 
 
 The Continent is ours !' 
 
 He ceased — the grim old Puritan — 
 
 Then softly bent to cheer 
 The pilgrim-child whose wasting face 
 
 Was meekly turned to hear ; 
 And drew his toil-worn sleeve across, 
 
 To brush the manly tear 
 From cheeks that never changed in wo, 
 
 And never blanched in fear. 
 
 The weary pilgrim slumbers, 
 
 His resting place unknown; 
 His hands were crossed, his lids were closed, 
 
 The dust was o'er him strown, 
 The drifting soil, the mouldering leaf 
 
 Along the sod were blown, 
 His mound has melted into earth, 
 
 His memory lives alone. 
 
 7 
 
74 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 So let it live unfading, 
 
 The memory of the dead, 
 Long as the pale anemone 
 
 Springs where their tears were shed, 
 Or raining in the summer's wind, 
 
 In flakes of burning red, 
 The wild rose sprinkles with its leaves 
 
 The turf where once they bled ! 
 
 Yea, when the frowning bulwarks 
 
 That guard this holy strand 
 Have sunk beneath the trampling surge 
 
 In beds of sparkling sand, 
 While in the waste of ocean, 
 
 One hoary rock shall stand, 
 Be this its latest legend — 
 
 Here was the Pilgrim's Land ! 
 
 -O- 
 
 ODE. 
 
 COMPOSED BY BEY. SAMUEL GILMAX, OF CHABLESTOWN, SOUTH CAROLINA. 
 
 Aib, Believe me if all those endearing yovng charms. 
 
 New England ! receive the heart's tribute that comes 
 
 From thine own Pilgrim-sons far away, 
 More fondly than ever our thoughts turn to thee, 
 
 Upon this thine old Festival Day. 
 We would rescue with social observance and song, 
 
 Awhile from oblivions grave, 
 The lov'd scenes of our youth, and those blessings recall 
 
 Which our Country and Forefathers gave. 
 
AIRS OP THE PILGRIMS. 75 
 
 We have gazed on thy mountains that whitened the sky, 
 
 Or have roved on thy tempest-worn shore; 
 We have breathed thy keen air or have felt thy bright fires, 
 
 While we listened to legends of yore. 
 We have gathered thy nuts in the mild autumn sun, 
 
 And the grey squirrel chas'd thro' thy woods, 
 From thy red and gold orchards have plucked the ripe store, 
 
 And have bath'd in thy clear-rolling floods. 
 
 When thy snows have descended in soft feather'd showers, 
 
 Or hurtled along in the storm, 
 We have welcomed alike with our faces and hearts, 
 
 Its beauteous or terrible form. 
 We have skimm'd o'er thine ice with the fleetness of wind, 
 
 We have rear'd the thick snow-castle's wall, 
 And have acted our part in the combat that raged 
 
 With the hard-pressed and neatly-form'd ball. 
 
 We remember the way to those school-houses well, 
 
 That bedeck every mile of thy land, 
 We have lov'd thy sweet Sabbaths that bade in repose, 
 
 The plough in its mid-furrow stand. 
 We have joined in thy hymns and thy anthems, that swell'd 
 
 Through Religion's oft visited dome, 
 We have blest thy thanksgivings, that summon'd from far, 
 
 The long-parted family home. 
 
 Can distance efface, or can time ever dim 
 
 Remembrances crowding like these, 
 That have grown with our growth, and have minister'd strength, 
 
 As the roots send up life to the trees ? 
 Then be honor'd the day, when the Mayflower came, 
 
 And honor'd the charge that she bore, 
 The stern, the religious, the glorious men, 
 
 Whom she set on our rough native shore. 
 
76 AIRS OF THE PILGRIMS. 
 
 New England, advance in thine onward career, 
 
 With thine inborn, all conquering will: 
 Still triumph o'er Nature's unkindliest forms 
 
 By thine energy, patience, and skill. 
 Thou shalt grow to thy height as thou ever hast grown, 
 
 O'er the storms of ephemeral strife, 
 And thy spirit, undying, shall cease not to be 
 
 The deep germ of a Continent's life. 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 APPENDIX A. 
 
 The following is a list of the merchant adventurers of London, 
 whose names were subscribed to the agreement, between them and 
 the Plymouth Colony, dated November 15th, 1626. 
 
 John White, 
 John Pocock, 
 Robert Kean, 
 Edward Bass, 
 William Hobson, 
 William Pennington, 
 William Quarles, 
 Daniel Pointon, 
 Richard Andrews, 
 Newman Rooks, 
 Henry Browning, 
 Richard Wright, 
 John King, 
 Thomas Goffe, 
 In all forty two. 
 
 Samuel Sharp, 
 Robert Holland, 
 James Shirley, 
 Thomas Mott, 
 Thomas Fletcher, 
 Timothy Hatherly, 
 Thomas Brewer, 
 John Thornell, 
 Myles Knowles, 
 William Collier, 
 John Revell, 
 Peter Gudburn, 
 Emnu Alltham, 
 John Beauchamp, 
 
 Thomas Hudson, 
 Thomas Andrews, 
 Thomas Ward, 
 Fria Newbald, 
 Thomas Heath, 
 Joseph Tilden, 
 William Penrin, 
 Eliza Knight, 
 Thomas Coventry, 
 Robert Allden, 
 Lawrence Anthony, 
 John Knight, 
 Matthew Thornhill, 
 Thomas Millsop. 
 
 DESCRIPTION OP WEIR'S PAINTING OF THE EMBARKATION AT 
 LETDEN. 
 
 An obliging correspondent has furnished the following description 
 of Weir's painting of the embarkation. 
 
 The scene is laid on the deck of the vessel. Mr Robinson, their 
 pastor, is making the parting prayer just before her departure. 
 •7* 
 
H APPENDIX 
 
 with their wives, form the centre group of the picture. 
 
 On the right, Miles Standish, the soldier, with his wife Rose, who 
 found an early grave in the new country. 
 
 Mr. and Mrs. White, the parents of Peregrine, the first child born 
 in the Colony, on the left. 
 
 Beyond the centre group, Mr. Fuller is seen parting from his wife, 
 who remains behind. 
 
 Mr. and Mrs. Winslow, a newly married couple, were traveling 
 on the continent at the time Mr. Robinson was preaching in Hol- 
 land ; were so much pleased with him, they joined the company and 
 came out with them. 
 
 A boy leaning over the side of the vessel, belonging to Mr. Wins- 
 low's family, wears a silver canteen, which bears the initials E. W., 
 now in existence. 
 
 Captain Reynolds in the back ground, orders a sailor on board 
 with the cradle in which Peregrine was rocked. His face ex- 
 pressive of double meaning, as it is said he had been bribed not to 
 bring the company out. 
 
 The crew which probably saved the vessel, lies in the foreground, 
 with a group of armor, match locks, &c. 
 
 Various figures, members of the different families, fill up the pic- 
 ture. Mr. Robinson remained behind. 
 
 Spectators on the wharf could not refrain from tears at the ' sad 
 and mournful parting.' 
 
 The picture is true to the minutest particular, in costume, and in 
 color, to the ' sad colors ' of the time, and taste of the Pilgrims ; with 
 some exception for Mrs. Winslow, who being a bride, and of the 
 wealthier class, was dressed accordingly. 
 
 The whole picture is true to nature and the character of the scene. 
 
 It was on board the Speedwell, and that small vessel held the 
 germ of a republic. 
 
appendix. iii 
 
 APPENDIX C. Page 82. 
 
 The seventh chapter of the foregoing pages having been copied 
 by permission, from an original volume in the Library of Harvard 
 University, some account of it may be acceptable to the reader. 
 This work has always been called Mourt's Relation, and was pub- 
 lished in 1622 by John Bellamy of London, and the preface is 
 signed by G. Mourt, which may be found entire, copied by Dr. 
 Young into his Chronicles of the Pilgrims. In the Chronicles, page 
 113, will also be found the conclusions of Dr. Young respecting the 
 real authors of Mourt's Journal in the following words : ' Who was 
 G. Mourt ? From his preface it appears, that he was a person inter- 
 ested in the success of the Plymouth Colony, identifying himself 
 with it, having ' much desired ' to embark with the first colonists, 
 and intending soon to go over and join them. It is also evident 
 that he had friendly and intimate relations with some of them, and 
 that he was one in whom they reposed such entire confidence as to 
 send their first despatches of letters and journals. The only indi- 
 vidual answering this description that I can ascertain, is George 
 Morton, who had married a sister of Gov. Bradford, and came over 
 to Plymouth in July, 1623, in the first vessel that sailed for the Col- 
 ony after this journal was printed. He is represented in the Memo- 
 rial, p. 101, as very faithful in whatever public employment he was 
 betrusted withal, and an unfeigned well wisher and promoter of the 
 common good and growth of the plantation of New Plymouth. 
 Mourt might have been written designedly for Morton, from a disin- 
 clination on his part to have his name appear in print, or it may 
 have been a mistake of the printer, the final letters from some 
 flourish of the pen or otherwise, not being distinctly legible. Several 
 other typographical errors, more important than this, occur in the 
 journal.' From a thorough examination of the whole subject, Dr. 
 Young adopts the conclusion, that the letter signed Pv. G. was from 
 Robert Cushman, and that the journal was written ' by Bradford 
 and Winslow, chiefly by the former.' 
 
IV APPENDIX 
 
 APPENDIX D. Page 133. 
 
 In 1645. It appears from the Old Colony Records, that Mr. 
 John Beauchamp, one of the merchant adventurers, of London, 
 authorized, by power of attorney, Mr. Edward Freeman, senior, of 
 Sandwich, to settle with the undertakers of the trade, who had 
 mortgaged their estates for security of the company debts. These 
 were Edward Winslow, William Bradford, John Alden, Isaac 
 Allerton, Thomas Prince, and Myles Standish. Under date of 
 1652, the following statement appears. Account of Beauchamp, 
 houses and lands sold by Edward Freeman, and "William Paddy. 
 Mr. Bradford's lands at Sekonke, £12. Mr. Winslow's houses at 
 Plymouth, sold to Mr. Paddy, Plymouth, £26. 10s. Mr. Prence's 
 house at Plymouth, and five acres of land at Second Brook, £32. 
 Mr. Allerton's house, south side of High (now Summer) street, sold 
 to Thomas Willet for £700. Prence's farm at Jones River sold to 
 Willet and Paddy for T. Cushman, who exchanged land at Sowams 
 for it. It was first owned by Allerton, £75. Eleven acres, by John 
 Barnes, which was Allerton's improved by Prence, £12. Alden's 
 and Standish's land at South River, Marshfield, sold to Arthur 
 Howland and Thomas Chillingworth, £46. The amount of Mr. 
 Beauchamp's estate was £353. Is. 9d. Amount of sales £210. 10s ; 
 the loss being £142. Is. 9d. 
 
 The mortgage of the above lands in 1645, to Mr. Beauchamp, by 
 the undertakers, was a mutual and satisfactory adjustment, between 
 the parties concerned, and was doubtless the source of much em- 
 barrassment to the planters. In relation to this subject, the remarks 
 of Capt. John Smith, whose romantic early history, both in Europe 
 and Virginia, are so well known, affords a valuable and impartial 
 testimony, to the honorable conduct of our fathers. . ' These disasters, 
 losses, and uncertainties, (referring to the first winter's hardships of 
 the Pilgrims,) made such disagreements among the adventurers in 
 England, who began to repent, and rather lose all, than longer con- 
 tinue the charge, being out of purse 6 or 7,000 pounds, accounting 
 my books and their relations as old almanacks. But the planters, 
 
APPENDIX. V 
 
 rather than leave the country, concluded absolutely to supply them- 
 selves, and to all their adventurers pay them for nine years two 
 hundred pounds yearly, without any further account ; where more 
 than six hundred adventurers for Virginia, for more than two hun- 
 dred thousand pounds, had not six pence.' 
 
 ~D, page 149. 
 
 The population of New England, in 1675, according to the best 
 authorities, was not far from 50,000, and the citizens capable of 
 bearing arms one fifth of that number, or 10,000. On the adjust- 
 ment of accounts, by the commissioners, between the colonies, after 
 the war had terminated, Plymouth was adjuged to pay £1 ,000 to 
 Massachusetts, in part for her disbursements beyond her required 
 proportion. From a statement in the appendix of Judge Davis' 
 edition of New England's Memorial, it appears that the towns in 
 the Old Colony expended on account of the war £3,692. 16s. 2d. 
 The whole expense incurred by all the Colonies was estimated at 
 more than 100,000 pounds, exclusive of losses by fire and pillage. 
 Dr. Trumbul in his history observes, respecting the loss of property 
 and life in the contest with Philip, ' that about 600 of the inhabitants 
 of New England, most of whom were the flower and strength of the 
 country, fell in battle or were murdered by the enemy. Twelve or 
 thirteen towns in Massachusetts, Plymouth, and Rhode Island, were 
 utterly destroyed, and others greatly damaged. About 600 build- 
 ings, chiefly dwelling houses, were consumed with fire. An almost 
 insuperable debt was contracted by the Colony, when their numbers, 
 dwellings, goods, cattle, and all their resources were greatly dimin- 
 ished.' 
 
 APPENDIX F. Page 287. 
 
 Cape Cod was discovered by Bartholomew Gosnold, on the 15th 
 of May, 1602, and was visited by Henry Hudson, in Aug., 1609, and 
 by Capt. John Smith in 1614. It was named by Gosnold, from the 
 abundance of codfish taken in its neighborhood. Its harbor is con- 
 
VI APPENDIX. 
 
 sidered one of the best on the New England coast for vessels 
 of every size. The infamous conduct of Capt. Hunt, (so indignantly 
 condemned by Smith,) in kidnapping 27 of the natives, in 1614, had 
 justly incensed the tribe of Nauset, to which place 5 of them 
 belonged. To this cause their hostile conduct towards the Pilgrims 
 may properly be ascribed, for it appears that afterwards, when ex- 
 planations were made by the Pilgrims, disclaiming any participation 
 in the conduct of Hunt, friendly relations existed, which were rarely 
 interrupted. Cape Cod, Nantucket and New Bedford, have been 
 distinguished for the nautical skill and enterprise of their citizens, 
 unsurpassed by any equal population in the world, and by 
 our wisest statesmen, have, been regarded as the main supports 
 of our naval strength. On this subject, Edmund Burk, in 1774, 
 addressing the House of Commons on American affairs, pronounced 
 an eulogy deserving of grateful remembrance. ' No sea, but what 
 is vexed by their fisheries. No climate, that is not witness of their 
 toils. Neither the perseverance of Holland, nor the activity of 
 France, nor the dexterous and firm sagacity of English enterprise, 
 ever carried their most perilous mode of hardy industry to the 
 extent to which it has been pursued by this recent people ; a people 
 who are still in the gristle, and not hardened into manhood.' 
 
 The population of Cape Cod is 32,548 ; Nantucket, 9,012; Dukes 
 county, 3,958 ; New Bedford, 12,087. Aggregate, 57,605. 
 
 Appendix to the History of the First Church. Page 149. 
 
 The first volume of the church records embraces the history of 
 the Leyden Church from its earliest date, compiled by Secretary 
 Morton, to the year of the Rev. John Cotton's settlement, 1667. 
 They were then continued by him till his dismission in 1697, and 
 afterwards by Mr. Little, his successor, to the year 1723, and by Mr. 
 Leonard to 1732. The second volume was continued by Mr. Leon- 
 ard and succeeding pastors to the present time. In the first volume 
 of these records, under the date of 1697, Mr. Cotton records in de- 
 tail the practice of that time and previously existing respecting the 
 
APPENDIX. Vll 
 
 questions propounded to individuals before their admission as 
 members in full communion with the church. 
 
 The following lines are contained in the church records under the 
 date of 1626, being the first poetical composition on record. 
 
 A few poems made by a friend on the deplored death of Mr. John 
 Robinson the worthy pastour of the church of Leyden as followeth : 
 
 1 Blessed Robinson hath Run his Race 
 from earth to heaven is Gone, 
 
 to be with Christ in heavenly place, 
 the blessed saints among. 
 
 2 A burning and a shining light, 
 was hee whiles hee was heer 
 
 a preacher of the gospel Bright 
 whom we did love most deer, 
 
 3 "What tho hees dead his workes alive 
 and live will to all Aye 
 
 The comfort of them pleasant is 
 To living saints each day 
 
 4 Oh blessed holy saviour 
 the fountain of all grace 
 
 from whom such blessed instruments 
 are sent and Run their Race 
 
 5 To lead us to and guide us in 
 the way to happiness 
 
 That soe oh lord we may alwaies 
 forevermore more confess 
 
 6 That whosoever Gospel preacher be 
 or waterer of the same 
 
 wee may always most constantly 
 Give Glory to thy Name. 
 
V1H APPENDIX. 
 
 The following account of the Rev. Kichard Clifton, who was 
 pastor with Mr. Robinson of the church of Leyden, at the time of 
 its earliest establishment in the north of England, is taken from the 
 church records, and was penned by Gov. Bradford in his dialogue, 
 the whole of which document may be found in Dr. Young's Chron- 
 icles of the Pilgrims. 
 
 ' Richard Clifton was a grave and fatherly old man when he came 
 first into Holland, having a great white beard : and pity it was that 
 such a reverend old man should be forced to leave his country and 
 at those years to go into exile. But it was his lot ; and he bore it 
 patiently. Much good had he done in the country where he lived, 
 and converted many to God by his faithful and painful ministry, 
 both in preaching and catechising. Sound and orthodox he always 
 was, and so continued to his end. He belonged to the church at 
 Leyden ; but being settled at Amsterdam, and thus aged, he was 
 loath to remove any more ; and so when they removed, he was 
 dismissed to them there, and there remained until he died. Thus 
 have we briefly satisfied your desire.'. 
 
 The following extract is from the church records. ' In January 
 1669. The church agreed to begin monthly church meetings for 
 conference, which were constantly attended for many years, and 
 much good attended that exercise. Also in November began the 
 catechising of the children by the Pastor (the Elder also accompa- 
 nying him therein constantly) once a fortnight, the males at one 
 time and the females at the other. The cathechism there used was 
 Mr. Perkin's.' In this ancient practice of pilgrim times, we may 
 perhaps discern the origin of our present Sunday school institutions. 
 The improvements of modern times consist in bringing into active 
 service the laymen, as well as pastors and officers of the church, by 
 which means large numbers of children, arranged in separate classes, 
 may be more thoroughly instructed, while those who act as teachers 
 become intelligent expositors of the scriptures, and efficient advo- 
 cates of Christianity in our land. 
 
 In connection with the Ecclesiastical history of the First church 
 of Plymouth, a fit occasion seems presented to offer some brief 
 remarks in relation to the views expressed by Mr. Sumner respect- 
 
APPENDIX. IX 
 
 ing the farewell discourse of Robinson to that part of the Ley den 
 church which was about to embark from Dclfthaven to America. 
 This discourse was preserved in its essential features by Winslow 
 in his brief narration published in the year 1646 ; and no one before 
 Mr. Sumner known to the writer, has attempted to discredit his 
 authority. Mr. Sumner thus expresses his doubts: The original 
 authority for this statement (the statement respecting attentions 
 shown at the grave of Robinson) would appear to be Winslow; 
 who was not however in Holland at the time of Robinson's death, 
 but in Plymouth, and who could only speak from hearsay. For a 
 point of greater importance than this, it might be well to enquire 
 how far a book written under the circumstances of the Brief Narra- 
 tion — an advocate defending his client — may be safely relied upon 
 as historical authority;' — and again Mr. Sumner doubtingly en- 
 quires, ' Was that sermon ever preached by Robinson ? The only 
 authority which can be found for it is Winslow ; and he gives in an 
 informal manner, twenty-six years after the time when the discourse 
 was supposed to have been pronounced, that which forms the 
 ground-work of the sermon of Mather, Neal and others.' Winslow 
 after stating his object in reply to Gorton, says among other re- 
 marks, 'Whereunto is added a Brief Narration (occasioned by 
 certain aspersions) of the true grounds or cause of the planting of 
 New England.' Now is it not an unwarrantable assumption, that 
 because Winslow was agent of the Massachusetts Colony, his 
 statements respecting the Leydcn church and Robinson's discourse 
 are not to be trusted ? The utmost fidelity to his trust as agent of 
 Massachusetts required no misstatements respecting a matter hav- 
 ing no necessary connection with that trust ; and as to the ' informal 
 manner,' of which Mr. Sumner speaks, it is quite difficult to per- 
 ceive why it is so denominated. Gov. Bradford relates in a more 
 general manner than Winslow the account of Robinson's farewell 
 address, and says, 'he (Robinson) spent a good part of the day 
 very profitably and suitably, to their present occasion.' Thus far 
 no discrepancy is perceptible between the respective authorities of 
 Winslow and Bradford. There seems no just ground to doubt, 
 that both Winslow and Bradford allude to the same interesting 
 
X APPENDIX. 
 
 occasion, and the text, though probably from Ezra the 8th 21 st, is 
 but of secondary importance. The sentiments of the discourse as 
 preserved by Winslow in which Robinson used these ' expressions 
 or words to the same purpose,' have justly been regarded as highly 
 to his honor, and far beyond the narrow bigotry of the age in which 
 they were advanced. Winslow while agent for Massachusetts was 
 highly esteemed by the prevailing power in England, and no 
 temptation existed sufficient to induce a departure from truth in his 
 statements ; and if such temptation had existed, no one would have 
 been more prompt to resist its influence. Mr. Sumner in a note to 
 his Memoirs, page — , appears to doubt the authority of Gov. Brad- 
 ford's statement respecting the reasons which induced Robinson's 
 church to remove from Amsterdam to Leyden. Gov. Bradford 
 says ' their removal was occasioned principally by the fear of some 
 contentions existing in another English church at Amsterdam,' 
 which things they prudently foreseeing, thought it was best to 
 remove before they were any way engaged with the same ; though 
 they well knew it would be much to the prejudice of their outward 
 estate, both at present, and, in likelihood, in the future, as indeed it 
 proved to be.' To which Mr. Sumner thus replies : ' This may be 
 so ; yet Leyden was the principal manufacturing town of the Neth- 
 erlands, and one of the most important in Europe.' Why should 
 not Gov. Bradford, well acquainted as he was with the church, have 
 been perfectly competent to decide a question of this kind, as to 
 which of two cities was best adapted to their various capacities for 
 business 1 If some of the pilgrims were weavers, most of them had 
 been accustomed to agricultural pursuits, and for variety of occu- 
 pation, a flourishing commercial city like that of Amsterdam, at the 
 period in question, would have seemed the more eligible. It so 
 appeared to Got. Bradford and his brethren of the church, who 
 certainly could have had no conceivable motive for stating anything 
 but facts, in relation to this matter. It is reasonable to conclude' 
 therefore, that he was at that time a far better judge of this affai r 
 than one could expect to find, after the lapse of more thnn two 
 centuries. The indefatigable labors of Mr. Sumner have been the 
 subject of just commendation ; and these remarks are not made 
 
APPENDIX. XI 
 
 •without a high appreciation of the services he has contributed to the 
 cause of historical research, in a quarter where uncommon energy 
 and perseverance alone, could have ensured any tolerable degree of 
 success. 
 
 It has been suggested to the writer by an antiquarian friend, 
 whose attention has recently been directed to enquiry on the subject, 
 that an error probably exists, in the Old Cdlony Records, respecting 
 the name of Mannasseh Faunce, as found in the Division of lands 
 among the passengers of the ship Ann in 1623 ; and that this name 
 should have been written Manasseh Kempton. This opinion is 
 sustained by the fact, that the name of Manasseh Faunce nowhere 
 appears afterwards, either in the town or colony records, while that 
 of Manasseh Kempton often occurs in both, as appointed to execute 
 many important public trusts, and also in the division of cattle in 
 1627. He died January 14th, 1662-3, and the following brief 
 remark appears in the entry of his death on the records: 'He did 
 much good in his place the time God lent him.' His wife Julian 
 died Feb. 19th, 1764-5, aged 81 years, and the brief remark is added 
 in Secretary Morton's hand, ' She was a faithful servant of God.' 
 
 The following extract will show the origin of reading the hymn 
 sung at anniversary celebrations, line by line. ' And here it will be 
 proper to observe, that it was their practice from the beginning till 
 Oct. 1681, to sing the Psalms without reading the line ; but then at 
 the motion of a brother who otherwise could not join in the service, 
 (I suppose he could not read,) they altered the custom and reading 
 was introduced ; the elder performing that service, after the pastor 
 had first expounded the psalm, which were usually sung in course, 
 so that the people had the benefit of hearing the whole book of 
 Psalms expounded. 
 
Xll APPENDIX 
 
 CAPTAINS HILL. 
 
 This beautiful mount is situated in the southeasterly part of 
 Duxbury, and was at an early period assigned, with land adjacent, 
 to Myles Standish, the intrepid military leader of the Pilgrims. Its 
 summit, in a gradual ascent, is about 400 yards from the water, and 
 about 180 feet above the ocean, by which it is washed, on its west, 
 south, and easterly sides. It affords an extensive and delightful 
 view of the surrounding country, the harbor, Bay of Cape Cod, and 
 Manomet. The dwelling house and spring of Standish were on 
 the southerly part of the mount and but a short distance from the 
 water. The house was burnt, as we have learned from good author- 
 ity, while occupied by Alexander, the oldest son of Capt. Standish. 
 In a communication from Lewis Bradford, Esq. the aged and vener- 
 rable Town Clerk of Plympton, he observes, ' I have found that 
 Alexander Standish was Town Clerk and also a deacon of the 
 Church in Duxbury, and that he lived in the house where his 
 father lived, wkich was burnt and the Town Records of Duxbury up 
 to that time burnt in it.' The ruins of this house still remain, and 
 frequently attract antiquarian curiosity. Implements of household 
 use, and parcels of corn partially scorched by fire, found in these 
 ruins, have been deemed as trophies amply rewarding the labor ex- 
 pended in procuring them. 
 
 The following statement from the Records may be interesting to 
 the descendants of Capt. Standish, now engaged in ascertaining the 
 heirship to property supposed to have descended from the Standish 
 family in England. The will of Capt. Miles Standish is dated March 
 7, 16G5, and the following clause relates to property in England. ' I 
 give unto my son and heir apparent Alexander Standish all my 
 lands as heir apparent by lawful descent in Ormistic Bousconge 
 Wrightington Maudsley Newburrow Cranston and in the Isle of 
 Man and given to mee as right heire by lawful descent, but surrep- 
 titiously detained from mee my great grandfather being a second or 
 younger brother from the house of Standish of Standish.' It 
 appears that Miles, the oldest son of Alexander, inherited the home- 
 
APPENDIX. Xlll 
 
 stead at Duxbury, and died there, leaving a will, dated Aug. 31, 1739, 
 in which he gives his homestead, 120 acres, to Miles, his son, his 
 wife Experience to have half the income, and legacies to the follow- 
 ing named daughters: Sarah, wife of Abner Weston, Patience, 
 wife of Caleb Jenney, Priscilla and Penelope Standish. Penelope 
 died in 1740. Miles Standish, above named, lived in Duxbury, and 
 July 3, 1763, by deed, in which his wife Mehitabel joined, sold his 
 remaining homestead to Samuel and Sylvanus Drew, who about the 
 same time sold it to Wait Wadsworth. He probably soon moved to 
 Bridgewater, and July 1, 1765, purchased a farm (at Teluat,) costing 
 £253 6s. 8d., of Elijah Leach. He sold, his wife Mehetable joining 
 in the deed, to his son Miles the same farm April 28, 1779. Judge 
 Mitchell states that he died in 1785, aged 80, and that his son 
 removed to Pennsylvania, and that he also had a son Miles, from 
 all which it seems probable that the son of the last named Miles is 
 the rightful heir to the Standish property in England, if any such 
 there be. 
 
 8* 
 
ERRATA. 
 
 The following errors have been detected in the preceding work, 
 most of which have been occasioned by indispensable engagements, 
 not anticipated when the work was commenced, rendering it impos- 
 sible to give it so careful a revisal as otherwise it would have received. 
 
 The date on page 45, should read Dec. 22d, 1843, instead of Dec. 
 22d, 1824. 
 
 The word He, on page 76, should read isle. 
 
 The word Eanacum, on page 108. should read Canacum. 
 
 The words 2 hhds. of beam clapboards aad sasafras, should read 2 
 khds. beaver, clapboards and sasafras. 
 
 The dates in note, on page 151, should be 1621, &c, instead of 1821. 
 
 The word eighteen, eleventh line from the top of page 181, should 
 read eight. 
 
 In the Airs, over Clark's Island, Hersey B. Goodwin, instead of 
 Henry B. Goodwin. 
 
 Date on second line from top of page 144, the date should be 1625. 
 
 On page 261, 13th line, the words, and one half mile in length, 
 should read one and a half mile in length. 
 
 On page 271, N. N. West, should read North by East. 
 
 On page 273, the word faded, should read failed. 
 
 On page 279, 6th line from top, the words town house should read 
 (hurt house. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 o- 
 
 Page. 
 
 Alden, John, Biographical and Genealogical Sketch, . . 244 
 Allerton, Isaac, Biographical Sketch of, .... 242 
 
 Adams, John Quincy, Remarks on the Compact signed on 
 
 board the Mayflower, 49 
 
 Adams, John Quincy, Remarks on the New England Confed- 
 eracy of 1643, 49 
 
 Ann, Ship, Alphabetical List of Passengers, . . . .128 
 Adventurers, Merchant, List of their Names in 1626, 
 
 Appendix A. i 
 Adventurers, Merchant, Account of Losses in the sale of their 
 
 Estate, Appendix D. iv 
 
 Adams, John, Letter Extract from, concerning Thomas Mor- 
 ton of Mount Walloston, 145 
 
 Alms House, . 279 
 
 B. 
 
 Burying Hill, — Description — History of — Inscriptions, . 204 
 
 Billington Sea, 215 
 
 Brewster, William, Biographical Sketch of, . . . .241 
 Bradford, William, Biographical Sketch of, . . . .237 
 Bartlett, Robert, Biographical Sketch of, .... 253 
 Billington, Francis, Remarks on supposed Error in Mourt's 
 
 Journal, (note,) 217 
 
XVI I N D EX. 
 
 C. 
 
 Cole's Hill, the first Burial Place of the Pilgrims, . . . 200 
 Captain's Hill, the residence of Standish, Description of, 
 
 Appendix xii 
 Clark's Island, Description and History of, . . .212 
 
 Cushman, Robert, Biographical Sketch of, ... 236 
 
 Chilton, James, Biographical Sketch of, . . . .251 
 
 Carver, Gov. John, Biographical Sketch of, . . . . 235 
 Choate, Rufus, Remarks on the Embarkation from Delfthaven, 37 
 Choate, Rufus, Remarks on the contact of the Puritans with 
 
 the Republican forms of Geneva, 45 
 
 Choate, Rufus, Remarks on the trials of the Pilgrims, . .117 
 
 " " On the Sickness of the First Winter, . . 201 
 
 Cattle, Division of, and the Shares allotted, . . . .134 
 
 Clifton, Richard, Account of, by Gov. Bradford, Appendix, viii 
 
 Cemetery, 300 
 
 Cape Cod, Discovery of, by Gosnold, . . Appendix F. v 
 Carlyle, Thomas, Remarks on the Mayflower and Puritans, . 187 
 Chapter I. — A brief Historical Account of the Pilgrims pre- 
 vious to their Removal from England to Holland, . . 1 
 Chapter II. — Departure of the Pilgrims for Holland — their 
 
 arrival at Amsterdam, 12 
 
 Chapter III. — Residence of the Pilgrims in Holland — 
 Thoughts of Removal from Ley den, and determination 
 
 to embark for America, 20 
 
 Chapter IV. — The Embarkation of the Pilgrims at Delft-Ha- 
 ven, July 22d, 1 620, 32 
 
 Chapter V. — The Departure of the Mayflower and Speedwell 
 for America — Incidents of the Voyage — Arrival at Cape 
 
 Cod, 39 
 
 Chapter VI. — Exploration of Cape Cod — Compact on board 
 
 the Mayflower — Landing at Plymouth, ... 42 
 Chapter VH. — Of their Landing and Settling a\ New Plym- 
 outh, 57 
 
 Chapter VIII. — The visit of Winslow and Hopkins to Poka- 
 noket — Arrival of the ship Fortune — Edward Wins- 
 low's letter to George Morton, 83 
 
INDEX. XVII 
 
 Chapter IX. — Arrival of Weston's Colony in the Charity 
 and Swan, 1622 — Their stay in Plymouth, and conduct 
 there — Their removal to Wessaguscus — Gov. Bradford 
 and Standish visit Cape Cod for supplies of corn — Sick- 
 ness of Massassoit — Conspiracy of the Indians — Stan- 
 dish's departure to Wessaguscus — Dissolution of Wes- 
 ton's Colony, 105 
 
 Chapter X. — An abstract of important events and circum- 
 stances connected with the Pilgrims from 1623 to the 
 Union of the Old Colony and Massachusetts in 1692, . 119 
 
 Chapter XI. — Genealogy of the Pilgrims — Table of Longev- 
 ity — Closing Remarks on the Pilgrims, . . . 235 
 
 Chapter XII. — Description of Plymouth, . . . .260 
 
 D. 
 
 D wight, Rev. Dr., Remarks on Plymouth Rock, . . .182 
 De Tocqueville, His Remarks on the Rock of Plymouth, . 182 
 
 E. 
 
 Everett, Edward, Description of the Mayflower, . . .188 
 
 Remarks of 9 
 
 Explanation of the Engravings, 304 
 
 Engraving of Cradle and House, 45 
 
 " " Peregrin's Tree, 234 
 
 " Facsimiles, 254 
 
 F. 
 
 Friendly Indians — Massassoit, Samoset, and others, . . 228 
 
 Fuller, Samuel, Biographical Sketch of, 245 
 
 Famine apprehended, 120 
 
 Fortune, Alphabetical List of Passengers, . . . .128 
 
 First Church of Plymouth, History, 149 
 
 Foster, John, Remarks of, 7 
 
 Freemen in 1643 — in Plymouth and other towns in the Old 
 
 Colony, 278 
 
xvm INDEX. 
 
 G. 
 
 Geology of Plymouth, 262 
 
 H. 
 
 Howland, John, Biographical Sketch of, 249 
 
 Hopkins, Stephen, Account of, 250 
 
 Hutchinson, , Remarks on the Pilgrims, ... 49 
 
 I. 
 
 Indian Names, 303 
 
 K. 
 
 Kcmpton, Manasseh and John Faunce, Supposed error in O. 
 
 C. Records, Appendix xi 
 
 L. 
 
 Leyden Street, Description and History of, . . . .190 
 Lands and Lots, Division of, 122, 123, 134 
 
 M. 
 
 Mayflower, Ship, History of, 184 
 
 Morton, Nathaniel, Biographical Sketch of, ... 252 
 
 Mayflower — Number of Passengers — their Names and. 
 
 Families and Compact Signed on Board of, . . . 46 
 Mayflower, Ship, Alphabetical list of Passengers, . . .128 
 Morton, Thomas, Account of his Proceedings, . . .143 
 Massasoit, his inter view with the Pilgrims, . . . .77 
 
 Massasoit, Treaty of Peace, 79 
 
 Mourt's Relation, its authors, .... Appendix iii 
 
 N. 
 New England Confederacy in 1 643, 146 
 
 0. 
 Old Colony Club, History of— First Celebration of the Anni- 
 versary, 218 
 
NDEX. XIX 
 
 P. 
 
 Pilgrim Hall, Description of, Curiosities, Paintings, &c., . 230 
 
 Philip's War, 147 
 
 Pilgrim Society, 279 
 
 Plymouth, Boundaries and Description of. Chapter 12, page . 260 
 
 Botanical Description of, .... 265 
 
 " Population, at Various Periods, .... 276 
 
 Commerce and Fisheries, ..... 273 
 
 Manufactories, Kinds and Value of, 275 
 
 " Churches and Succession of Pastors, . . . 290 
 
 " Fire Department, ...... 297 
 
 " Lakes and Ponds, ...... 294 
 
 " Sunday Schools, Temperance, . . . 299, 300 
 
 R. 
 
 Rock, Forefather's, .176 
 
 Robinson, John, his Farewell Address to the Lcyden Church, 160 
 Records, Plymouth Colony, Account of, . . . .172 
 Records, First Church of Plymouth, Account of, and extracts 
 
 from, Appendix vi 
 
 Robinson, John, Lines on his Death, from the Church Records, 
 
 Appendix vii 
 
 S. 
 
 Standish, Mylcs, Biographical Sketch of, .... 243 
 
 Standish, Mylcs, Anecdote of, 181 
 
 South worth, Mrs. Alice, Biographical Sketch of, . . .251 
 Sumner, George, Remarks on his Memoirs of the Pilgrims at 
 
 Leyden, Appendix viii 
 
 Sargent, Henry, Description of his Painting, . . . 230 
 
 Samoset, His Visit to the Pilgrims, 72 
 
 Samosct House, 301 
 
 Standish, Mylcs, Extract from his will respecting estate in 
 
 England, Appendix xii 
 
 Schools, Public and Private, 285 
 
XX INDEX. 
 
 W. 
 
 "Watson's Hill, Description of, Place of Interview with Mas- 
 
 sassoit, 226 
 
 Weir's Painting, Description of the Embarkation of the Pil- 
 grims at Delft- Haven, . . . Appendix A. i 
 Winslow, Edward, Biography, Genealogical Account of his 
 
 Family, 239 
 
 Winslow, John, Biography, Genealogical Account of his Fam- 
 ily, 240 
 
 Winslow, Kenelm, Josiah, and Gilbert, 241 
 
 White, William, Biographical Sketch of, .... 246 
 Warren, Richard, Biographical Sketch of, . 249 
 
 Webster, Daniel, On the Embarkation of the Pilgrims for 
 
 Holland, 19 
 
 Webster, Daniel, On the Landing upon Forefather's Rock, . 183 
 Winslow, Edward, Jr., First Anniversary Address, . . 222 
 
ADDITIONAL ERRATA. 
 
 On page 1st of the Preface, distinguished visitors should read dis- 
 tinguished writers. 
 
 On page 7th of the Introductory Lines, the date in the note, 1775, 
 should read 1675. 
 
 On page 54th word Billington Point should read Billingsgate Point. 
 
 The date on page 197, 5th line from the bottom, 1837, should read 
 1637. 
 
 The words Court House, on page 279, 8th line from the bottom, 
 should read Town House. 
 
 On page 292, the name of Abial Harvey should read Adiel Harvey 
 
 On page 164, the words solid character should read rolled character. 
 
 On page 264, 13th line from the top, 1685 should read 1785. 
 
 On page 280, the name of Winslow Warren, M. D., should have 
 been inserted as a Trustee of the Pilgrim Society. 
 
 On page 275, the words Cotton Ducks should read Cotton Duck. 
 
 On page 22d, Airs of the Pilgrims, in the note attached to the Ode 
 composed by the Hon. John Davis of Boston, the words excepting in 
 the 5th verse should read excepting in the 6th verse. 
 
 On page 295 the name of Jonathan Sparrow should read Richard 
 Sparrow. 
 
 On page 279,3d line from bottom of the page should be 1820 instead 
 of 1620. 
 
 In the Appendix, page 7, the date of Myles Standish's will should 
 read March 1th, 1655, instead of 1665. 
 
 The word maratime on page 184, should read maritime. 
 
 
XX INDEX. 
 
 TV. 
 
 Watson's Hill, Description of, Place of Interview with Mas- 
 


 
 90 
 Tl 
 
 H 
 
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 JO 
 
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 DO 
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