Emily Baker

The Voyage Of The Mayflower

The Mayflower story has an almost mythological status in American history, particularly in the northeast of America where I grew up. Unfortunately, the story of Plymouth Colony traditionally has been told from the perspective of the Mayflower sailors. In fact, a sophisticated Native American society had long been established in Patuxet before English settlers claimed this land and renamed it Plymouth.

As a Mayflower descendant, I take a personal interest in honouring the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower sailing. I am pleased that global commemorations have focused on a more inclusive story.

In this video, initially broadcast in November 2020 on Guide London’s social media channels, I give an introduction to the Mayflower voyage and ponder why this small group of settlers has a disproportionate legacy in American history. I also highlight some London links to this historic event.

For a more detailed tour (either an outdoor walk or virtual) that includes background on the Separatists’ origins and their time in Holland, as well as more stories about the Mayflower journey and the settlers’ first year in the New World, please contact me via the Guide London website.

Emily Baker

This is your holiday; let’s have fun! I’ll show you London from an historic, current and just plain entertaining perspective – aspects you might miss as a visitor or even as a UK resident. During these travel-restricted times, how about a virtual tour exploring London’s literary sites or the…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may also like

Because I'm A Londoner: From Black Cab Driver to Blue Badge Tourist Guide

This is the second in a series of articles written by London Blue Badge Tourist Guides who used to be key workers in our capital city. Ray Sharman describes his work as a London black cab driver.

Read more

9 Major Sites Along London's River Thames

At 215 miles long and neatly dividing London between North and South, the River Thames is the silvery thread that provides continuity for a City that is always changing. The sinuous loops and eccentrically named reaches provide the focus for some of London's greatest sights.

Read more