Questions & Answers

Why is the sailing of The Mayflower such an important event?

Because it is seen by many as the basis for The American Constitution, and the “special relationship” that exists between the United States and the United Kingdom. On 21 November 1620, shortly after The Mayflower landed at Plymouth Massachusetts, the Mayflower Compact was signed. That in turn was subsequently used as the basis for the Massachusetts State Compact, which then became the model for the The American Constitution on which modern day America is founded.

How many people sailed on the Mayflower to The New World?

The ship took a total of 102 passengers, and 26 crew. A baby was born on the voyage itself.

Was it a dangerous voyage?

Without doubt. They encountered some very bad weather and of course did not have any of the navigational aids that we have today, nor the warm protective clothing. The voyage took a total of 66 days.

Did they all survive the voyage?

Only 2 Pilgrims died on the voyage itself. However, when they reached land at Cape Cod, it was November and the Pilgrims were ill prepared for the harsh winter that followed. They spent much of the winter living on the ship, and almost 50% of them died during this period.

Why do Americans attach such importance to the 400 year commemoration of the sailing of The Mayflower?

Living in a relatively new country, Americans take their ancestry very seriously. Depending on which reports you believe, between 25 million and 35 million Americans can trace their ancestry back to the sailing of the Mayflower.

These projects are all very well, but who is going to pay for them?

Our funding is coming from a number of sources, but see the section on Fundraising

These projects sounds really interesting. How can I help and get involved?

Use the ‘Get Involved’ tab to send us an email. Let us know a little about yourself and your particular area of interest, and we will make sure that the most appropriate member of the team gets back to you.