The Journey of the Pilgrims to Plymouth: The 'Mayflower' and 'Speedwell' Expedition

On the historic voyage that would pave the way for the establishment of the Plymouth Plantation in New England, the Pilgrims undertook two vessels: The 'Mayflower' and the 'Speedwell'. Their journey from England to the New World was fraught with challenges and uncertainties, which had a lasting impact on both the journey and the future of these early settlers.

The Initial Departure and Separation

Before embarking on their journey to the New World, the Pilgrims had initially set out from Plymouth, England in 1620. Their transit to the New World was not a straightforward one. The Pilgrims, who were members of the Independent Church of England and had faced significant religious persecution, had gathered at Plymouth, a town known for its support of religious refugees. However, they were not alone in their journey as they also brought with them some English sea captains, skilled in navigation and shipbuilding. The Pilgrims, along with their new companions, set sail on two vessels - The 'Mayflower' and The 'Speedwell'.

Challenges and Suspicions on the Sea

Unfortunately, their initial voyage was beset by numerous challenges. The 'Speedwell' and the 'Mayflower' encountered several issues during their journey, leading to a significant delay and requiring them to return to Plymouth, England for repairs. Upon their arrival, they found that the 'Speedwell' was in poor condition and not seaworthy, leading to a significant debate among historians as to why it was selected for the trip in the first place. Three schools of thought emerged to explain the situation:

The Pilot's Fraud Theory: According to this theory, the crew of the 'Speedwell' deliberately concealed her true seaworthiness to avoid a dangerous and possibly life-threatening journey. This theory suggests that the crew claimed the 'Speedwell' was unsailable out of fear and for their own safety. However, this theory is often dismissed due to the lack of conclusive evidence supporting it. Limited Resources Theory: Another possible explanation is that the 'Speedwell' was beyond repair and simply could not withstand the demands of the voyage. The Pilgrims, facing limitations in resources and financial means, may have chosen the 'Mayflower' as a more reliable vessel. This theory is supported by historical documents that suggest the 'Speedwell' was indeed in a state of disrepair, rendering her unfit for the mission. Undocumented Evidence Theory: This explanation posits that critical information regarding the condition of the 'Speedwell' was not recorded, leaving room for speculation. Some historians believe that records and logs from the period were often incomplete, making it difficult to establish the exact conditions of the 'Speedwell' before the departure.

The Harsh Reality of the Voyage

Despite the challenges, the Pilgrims pressed on, eventually making their way to the New World. Nonetheless, the voyage was considerably more challenging than anticipated. Only 102 passengers boarded the Mayflower - the majority being Separatists, non-Separatist Puritans, and passengers who had paid their own passage to come to the New World. The journey was long, cramped, and fraught with the constant threat of rough seas, illness, and lack of supplies. Overcrowding and poor conditions on the ship made the voyage a harsh and testing experience for all aboard, especially for the weaker passengers and crew members.

Famous Landmarks: Plymouth Rock and The First Thanksgiving

Finally, after over two months at sea, the weary travelers sighted land on November 11, 1620, and anchored at Cape Cod. They then moved south to a location they named Plymouth. The landing at Plymouth was a significant moment in American history, marked by the iconic Plymouth Rock, which has become a symbol of American visitors. In the following year, the Pilgrims celebrated the Thanksgiving feast with the Native Americans, marking the first official Thanksgiving in the United States. This event took place near the site of their plantation, commemorating the survival of the group and expressing gratitude for their safety and prosperity.

Legacy and Impact

The journey of the Pilgrims and their subsequent settlement in Plymouth Plantation have had a lasting impact on American history and culture. The voyage of the 'Mayflower' and the 'Speedwell' is often celebrated as a symbol of perseverance and determination, embodying the spirit of early American settlers who braved unknown territories in search of a better life. The Pilgrims’ journey highlights the challenges and sacrifices of early American colonists, paving the way for the growth and development of the United States.

Conclusion

While the voyage of the Pilgrims to Plymouth Plantation was marked by challenges, trials, and near-disaster, it ultimately laid the foundation for a new way of life in the New World. The 'Mayflower' and 'Speedwell' represented more than just vessels for a perilous journey; they symbolized the resilience and hope of the early settlers who sought a better future for themselves and their descendants. The lessons learned during this journey continue to resonate today, serving as a reminder of the values of perseverance and community that have shaped American history.