The Pilgrims left England in 1620 for the Virginia coast. However do to a storm they were thrown off course and landed in Plymouth. They decided to stay in this new location rather than navigate back to Virginia. Winters in the area proved much harsher than those in Virginia and the settlers were unprepared. They began to construct houses, but not enough were built before the onset of winter, and many pilgrims had to remain on the ship throughout the bitter winter. By the time spring had emerged nearly half of the pilgrims had died do to lack of food, proper housing, and medical conditions.
A Native American named Massasoit from the neighboring Wampanoag tribe visits the Plymouth colony and welcomes the new settlers. He speaks English that he learned from other fishermen who had visited the area. He introduces the tribe to Squanto another Native American who speaks English, and the chief of the Wampanoag tribe Chief Massasoit. The Chief welcomes the new settlers, they exchange gifts and a treaty of friendship is made.
In 1621 the Mayflower sails back to England and all of the Pilgrims stay in the new land. The Wampanoag teach the colonists about hunting fishing and farming the land. Later in the year Massasoit and Squanto are captured by another Native American Tribe the Narraganset. The pilgrims send a rescue party and are able to retrieve Squanto and Massasoit.
In the fall of 1621 the colonists have their first harvest. To celebrate Governor William Bradford decides to celebrate and give thanks with a three day feast. The 52 colonists and 90 members of the Wampanoag tribe take part in the celebration. This was the first Thanksgiving celebration.
Related posts:
Comments on this entry are closed.