Their journey lasted nine weeks.  In one of those "accidents" which change the course of history, the ship lost its course and landed far north of its destination at what we now call Cape Cod, Massachusetts.  Once outside the territory covered by the King's Charter, the Pilgrims became responsible for their own government, and so they wrote a set of laws called The Mayflower Compact. 

On December 21, 1620, they began their new life at the place they named Plymouth.

It was a devastating winter – whipped with wind and sleet and snow.  Half the Pilgrims died.  Still the Separatists clung to their faith; not one chose to return to England with the Mayflower that spring.

But spring brought unexpected relief w the help of a noble and generous Christian brother – Squanto.  He taught them how to grow corn, use fertilizer, stalk deer, and catch fish.  William Bradford, the governor of Plymouth, wrote of Squanto that he was "a special instrument sent of God for good beyond their expectations."

And so their first harvest was good.  Governor Bradford proclaimed a day of thanksgiving to God and the Pilgrims invited their Indian friends.  Chief Massasoit and ninety members of his tribe came, along with Squanto, bearing venison and wild turkeys for all to share.  Together w in harmony w the Pilgrims and the Indians feasted, played games, ran races, and showed their prowess with bow and arrow and musket. 

How thankful were the Pilgrims?  The first Thanksgiving took three whole days!

Read It

Pass on the whole story – so your children can tell their children:

Pilgrim Boy, Matilda Nordtvedt, A Beka Books,114 pages, ages 7-12: 

Life in Leyden, the Mayflower passage, first year hardships, and the first Thanksgiving feast – from the point of view of a young boy. Sparkling dialogue, expressive feelings make this a wonderfully readable, historically rich and faith-filled account.

Voyage to Freedom, David Gay, Banner of Truth Trust, 149 pages, ages 9-12:

An historical narrative of the Atlantic Crossing, through the eyes of one family.  Their encounters with the actual historical figures provide a satisfying, adventuresome view of  the Mayflower voyage, from their first steps aboard to their first steps on Plymouth.

Squanto and the Miracle of  Thanksgiving, Eric Metaxas, Tommy Nelson, 32 pages, ages 4-8: