What Was Life Like in Plymouth?

_Elsa_

‘In November 1621, after the Pilgrims’ first corn harvest proved successful, Governor William Bradford organized a celebratory feast and invited a group of the fledgling colony’s Native American allies, including the Wampanoag chief Massasoit. Now remembered as American’s “first Thanksgiving”—although the Pilgrims themselves may not have used the term at the time—the festival lasted for three days. While no record exists of the first Thanksgiving’s exact menu, much of what we know about what happened at the first Thanksgiving comes from Pilgrim chronicler Edward Winslow, who wrote:

“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 fruits of our labors; they four in one day killed as much fowl, as with a little help beside, served the Company almost a week, at which time amongst other Recreations, we exercised our Arms, many of the Indians coming amongst us, and amongst the rest their greatest king Massasoit, 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 on our Governor, and 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 often wish you partakers of our plenty."

Historians have suggested that many of the dishes were likely prepared using traditional Native American spices and cooking methods. Because the Pilgrims had no oven and the Mayflower’s sugar supply had dwindled by the fall of 1621, the meal did not feature pies, cakes or other desserts, which have become a hallmark of contemporary celebrations.’ (Source)

‘However, life was not always picture-perfect in the New World. While the pilgrims on the Mayflower set out to seek religious freedom, they were not the only ones seeking freedom. Some other groups weren’t as tolerant of differing beliefs. Religious persecution and tensions between different groups often led to violence in the colonies.

Complex relationships with Native American tribes also escalated tensions in the area as the colony expanded. Eventually, the conflict led to King Philip’s War, also referred to as the First Indian War. Some tribes fought to prevent further English settlement while others sided with the pilgrims. The result for both sides was devastating.

Despite facing trials, Plymouth continued to grow and flourish. Three additional ships joined Plymouth Colony, and over 1,000 Puritans formed Boston nearby. Eventually, Plymouth became part of the larger Massachusetts in 1691. The legacy of the pilgrims lives on today, as can be seen in the yearly celebration of Thanksgiving. ’ (Source)

“Thanksgiving??” Elsa questions in her mind. “Wow! Who would have thought that this is how the annual holiday began! I have to let Tiffi know!”

“Tiffi, you’re not going to believe this,” exclaims Elsa. “I just read that Thanksgiving began when the people who landed in Plymouth met up with Native Americans and they had a feast together. Tiffi, the people on the Mayflower became known as the pilgrims and that’s how Thanksgiving began!”

Tiffi was not aware of this. She shares with Elsa the information that she found so far and promises to email everything to her later today. 

Let’s continue - The first Thanksgiving

Start at the beginning – Tiffi co-authors the Mayflower Story