The Embarkation of the Pilgrims
I was born in England and emigrated to the United States while in my twenties. I am thankful to be living here and the people have been very welcoming and kind.
My two brothers were also able to emigrate and they and their families will join me and my family for Thanksgiving today.
Occasionally I am asked if we have Thanksgiving in England. My stock answer is always is the same:
We do have Thanksgiving in England. We give thanks those annoying pilgrims left.
About the Painting
Protestant pilgrims are shown on the deck of the ship Speedwell before their departure for the New World from Delft Haven, Holland, on July 22, 1620. William Brewster, holding the Bible, and pastor John Robinson lead Governor Carver, William Bradford, Miles Standish, and their families in prayer. Painted by Robert Weir (1803-1889).
When Speedwell reached Southampton they met with Mayflower and additional colonists. The two vessels set out on August 5 (old calendar) / August 15 (new calendar). Soon after, Speedwell began taking in water, so both were diverted to Dartmouth. There Speedwell was inspected for leaks and sealed, but a second attempt to depart also failed, bringing them only so far as Plymouth.
It was decided that Speedwell was untrustworthy, and it was sold. It would later be learned that crew members had deliberately caused the ship to leak, allowing them to abandon their year-long commitments. The ship’s master and some of the crew transferred to Mayflower for the trip. (Wikipedia)
High-resolution version (3.5Mb)
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