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Massachusetts -- History -- New Plymouth, 1620-1691 Books
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A Journal of the Pilgrims at Plymouth; Mourt's Relation: A Relation or Journal of the English Plantation settled at Plymouth in New England, by Certain English adventurers both merchants and others
"A Journal of the Pilgrims at Plymouth; Mourt's Relation" is a firsthand account written between November 1620 and November 1621. Penned primarily by Edward Winslow and William Bradford, this detailed journal chronicles the Mayflower Pilgrims' landing on Cape Cod, their exploration of unfamiliar territory, and their settlement of Plymouth Colony. It documents their encounters with Native Americans and culminates with the celebrated gathering now known as the first Thanksgiving, offering an intimate glimpse into the colonists' earliest struggles and triumphs in the New World.
William Bradford
Bradford's history of the Plymouth settlement, 1608-1650 Rendered into modern English by Harold Paget
"Bradford's History of the Plymouth Settlement, 1608-1650" by William Bradford is a journal written between 1630 and 1651. Bradford, leader of Plymouth Colony, chronicles the Pilgrims' journey from their 1608 settlement in the Dutch Republic through their famous Mayflower voyage to their first decades in the New World. Regarded as the most authoritative account of the Pilgrims, this vivid historical record disappeared during the American Revolutionary War and wasn't recovered until it surfaced in London decades later, finally returning to Massachusetts in 1897.
Azel Ames
The Mayflower and Her Log; July 15, 1620-May 6, 1621 — Complete
"The Mayflower and Her Log; July 15, 1620-May 6, 1621 — Complete" by Azel Ames, M.D. is a historical account written during the early 20th century. The work delves into the significant voyage of the Mayflower, focused on the details of the ship’s journey, the Pilgrims' preparations for their emigration, and the broader historical implications of their settlement in America. Ames aims to provide a comprehensive compilation of original sources and accounts related to the Mayflower and the experiences of its passengers. At the start of the text, Ames sets the stage for the Pilgrims’ historic voyage, emphasizing the unique importance of this narrative not just for descendants of the Pilgrims but for civilization at large. He describes the motivations behind their exodus from England and their arduous preparations, the challenges they faced, and their ultimate determination to seek freedom in a new land. The opening chapters detail the naming of the Mayflower and its consort, the Speedwell, while providing context on the journey's logistics and the affiliations of the key players involved in this monumental event in American history. Ames asserts the value of collecting and documenting every shred of information about the Pilgrims, demonstrating a thorough commitment to historical accuracy that informs the reader of the depth of research behind the text.
Emmanuel Altham
Three Visitors to Early Plymouth Letters about the Pilgrim settlement in New England during its first seven years
"Three Visitors to Early Plymouth" by John Pory, Emmanuel Altham, and Isaack de Rasieres is a historical account edited by Sydney V. James Jr., written in the mid-20th century. The work compiles letters from three outsiders who visited the Plymouth Colony between 1622 and 1627, providing an important, candid perspective on the early settlement and its inhabitants. The letters reveal the perceptions and observations of the visitors, shedding light on the Pilgrims’ lifestyle, their interactions with Native Americans, and the resources available in the New World. At the start of the publication, an introduction sets the stage by explaining that the letters provide a unique outsider view of the Pilgrim settlement, previously overshadowed by accounts from the settlers themselves. The letters, attributed to John Pory, Emmanuel Altham, and Isaack de Rasieres, include vivid descriptions of the abundant natural resources, such as fish and game, and offer insights into the social dynamics between the colonists and Indigenous people, illustrating moments of camaraderie and tension alike. These early perspectives serve to enrich the historical understanding of the settlement's development and the challenges faced by its founders during their initial years in America.
Edward Winslow
Good Newes from New England Or a true relation of things very remarkable at the plantation of Plimoth in New-England
"Good Newes from New England" by Edward Winslow is a historical account written in the early 17th century. This work provides an eyewitness account of the early experiences of the Plymouth colony, focusing on the challenges they faced, the interactions with Indigenous peoples, and the providence they experienced amidst adversity. The text appears to address themes of survival, faith, and community in a new world setting. At the start of the narrative, the author offers a dedication and a summary of events concerning the Plymouth colony. Winslow discusses the daunting challenges the settlers endured, including food shortages and threats from Indigenous tribes. He emphasizes the miraculous survival attributed to divine intervention and the importance of maintaining good relations with the local tribes. Winslow also hints at ongoing tensions with neighboring colonies and the political dynamics with both the settlers and Indigenous nations. Within this context, the opening portion sets the stage for a deeper exploration of early colonial life and the complexities of their relationships with the land and its original inhabitants.
William Franklin Atwood
The Pilgrim story : $b Being largely a compilation from the documents of Governor Bradford and Governor Winslow, severally and in collaboration; together with a list of Mayflower passengers.
"The Pilgrim Story" by William Franklin Atwood is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. This work focuses on the journey and experiences of the Pilgrims, detailing their struggles, determination, and faith in the face of adversity as they settled in the New World. The narrative draws heavily on the accounts of notable figures such as Governors William Bradford and Edward Winslow, who played significant roles in the establishment of the Plymouth Colony. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the context of religious persecution faced by the Pilgrims in England, which propelled them to seek refuge in Holland. This migration is marked by harrowing experiences—including failed attempts to escape and the dire conditions they endured. Through Atwood's detailed compilation of historical documents and accounts, the story sets the stage for the Pilgrims’ eventual voyage on the Mayflower and their arrival at Plymouth, where they would confront new challenges and hopes for a better life. The foundation of their community, their first encounters with Native Americans, and the determination to maintain their right to worship freely are compelling themes that start to unfold in this narrative.
Ruth A. McIntyre
Debts hopeful and desperate : $b Financing the Plymouth Colony
"Debts Hopeful and Desperate: Financing the Plymouth Colony" by Ruth A. McIntyre is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. The book examines the financial struggles and complexities faced by the Plymouth Colony and its founders, detailing their relationships with various London investors and their attempts to manage debts incurred during the establishment of the colony. It delves into the roles of prominent figures like William Bradford and the challenges they encountered as they sought to secure funding and navigate the business side of colonization. At the start of the book, the author introduces the motivations of the Pilgrims, who sought both religious freedom and economic stability when they decided to emigrate to America. The opening provides a backdrop of their life in Leyden, where economic hardships intensified their desire to find new opportunities in the uncharted territories of the New World. The text emphasizes the significance of financial partnerships with London merchants, who had varying degrees of sympathy for the Pilgrims' mission. As the narrative unfolds, the initial enthusiasm for establishing Plymouth inevitably gives way to mounting challenges, including disputes over financial agreements, navigating trade routes, and the amalgamation of personal and collective interests—all of which lay the groundwork for the broader story of Plymouth's history and the Pilgrims' enduring legacy.
Ethel J. R. C. (Ethel Jane Russell Chesebrough) Noyes
The women of the Mayflower and women of Plymouth colony
"The Women of the Mayflower and Women of Plymouth Colony" by Ethel J. R. C. Noyes is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the largely overlooked narrative of the women who journeyed on the Mayflower and settled in the Plymouth Colony. Through their stories, it explores themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the vital roles these women played in establishing a new home and community in America. The opening of the text sets the stage for the narrative by emphasizing the historical neglect of the women’s contributions compared to their male counterparts. It begins with a foreword that praises the author's effort in bringing attention to these women and their significant impact on the foundations of American society. The narrative quickly introduces several key characters, particularly Mary Brewster, setting the scene of their lives in England prior to the journey and hinting at the trials they faced, including hardship, imprisonment, and the decision to leave their homes for the unknown. The author meticulously details the emotional landscape of these women as they prepare for a journey that would forever alter their lives, highlighting their courage amid the uncertainty of their future in a new land.
Azel Ames
The Mayflower and Her Log; July 15, 1620-May 6, 1621 — Volume 2
"The Mayflower and Her Log; July 15, 1620-May 6, 1621 — Volume 2" by Azel Ames is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work focuses on the significant voyage of the Mayflower, detailing the preparations for and the journey to the New World, while also documenting the roles of various individuals such as Robert Cushman and Thomas Weston in establishing the ship's charter. The book seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Pilgrim’s journey from England to America, likely aiming to reveal the personal stories and broader implications of this monumental migration. The opening of "The Mayflower and Her Log" introduces the reader to the complexities surrounding the ship's charter and the individuals involved in securing the vessel for the voyage. Ames discusses the agreements made by the Merchant Adventurers and representatives of the Leyden congregation, underscoring the financial and political considerations that influenced their plans. It highlights the initial challenges faced in obtaining a ship and the urgency expressed by leaders like Cushman, stressing the need for immediate action to ensure the success of their intended colonial enterprise. Overall, the beginning sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the historical significance of the Mayflower's journey and the fervent efforts of the Pilgrims to establish a religious sanctuary in America.
Azel Ames
The Mayflower and Her Log; July 15, 1620-May 6, 1621 — Volume 5
"The Mayflower and Her Log; July 15, 1620-May 6, 1621 — Volume 5" by Azel Ames is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This book delves into the journey of the Mayflower, focusing on the experiences of its passengers and crew during their significant voyage across the Atlantic Ocean to establish a new settlement in America. It captures the hardships of travel by sea during that period, particularly emphasizing the living conditions, provisions, and daily struggles of the Pilgrims. In this detailed narrative, Ames examines various aspects of life aboard the Mayflower, including how quarters were assigned to passengers, the challenges of cooking with limited facilities, and the issues related to food provisions. The text reveals that the passengers endured overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and inadequate food supplies, which took a toll on their health. The book also highlights the types of provisions and cargo taken on board, such as foods that didn't require cooking and various essential items needed for the settlement. Through meticulous research and original sources, Ames evokes a vivid picture of the Pilgrims' determination and resilience faced with such daunting circumstances.
Azel Ames
The Mayflower and Her Log; July 15, 1620-May 6, 1621 — Volume 1
"The Mayflower and Her Log; July 15, 1620-May 6, 1621 — Volume 1" by Azel Ames is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book primarily delves into the legendary voyage of the Mayflower, detailing the preparations, the ship's specifications, and the journey undertaken by the Pilgrims seeking a new life in America. The text merges original research with previously known details about the Pilgrims and their fleet, thereby positioning itself as a significant contribution to the understanding of this pivotal moment in American history. In this comprehensive narrative, Ames meticulously recounts both the logistical and the human elements involved in the Mayflower's journey. He introduces the reasons behind the emigration, the gathering of the Pilgrim group, and the challenges faced by both the Mayflower and her consort ship, the Speedwell, during their voyage. The lack of familiarity with ocean travel and the ship's eventual shortening of the planned journey resulted in numerous adversities which are critically analyzed. The author also makes an effort to correct historical inaccuracies while highlighting the diverse backgrounds of the passengers, their interactions, and the impacts of their decisions, all culminating in their arrival at Plymouth Rock and the establishment of a new colony.
Charles W. (Charles Walter) Livermore
Ye antient wrecke—1626 : $b Loss of the Sparrow-Hawk in 1626. Remarkable preservation and recent discovery of the wreck
"Ye antient wrecke—1626 : Loss of the Sparrow-Hawk in 1626. Remarkable…" is a historical account likely written in the mid-19th century. The book explores the fascinating story of the Sparrow-Hawk, a ship that set sail from England for Virginia with numerous emigrants in 1626, but ended up wrecked on Cape Cod. Its narrative intertwines the ship's tragic journey, the eventual discovery of its wreckage, and the significant implications of these events for early colonial history. The text details the harrowing experiences of the passengers aboard the Sparrow-Hawk, who encountered dire conditions at sea and ultimately encountered the shores of an unknown land. It highlights their interactions with Native Americans, their desperate attempts to repair the ship, and the challenges of surviving in a new world. The discovery of the wreck in 1863 raises questions about historical preservation and geological changes along the Cape Cod coast, providing insights into both maritime history and colonial life. The narrative culminates in a reflection on the ship's legacy as a unique relic of early American history, exploring both its craftsmanship and the stories of those who journeyed on it.
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