Plimouth Plantation, Plymouth, MA
If you are looking for a vacation rich in historical meaning, look no further than Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, . This unique living history museum provides an opportunity for visitors to experience life as it was in the early 1600’s, after the Pilgrims first arrived to this country. Plymouth, MA is located about 40 miles south of Boston, right on the Atlantic Ocean. While the town’s name has changed its spelling to match our evolving English language, Plimoth Plantation has kept the original spelling of Plimoth that the Pilgrims used. Plimoth Plantation contains a full replica of the early Pilgrim settlement, in addition to an entire area devoted to the history of the Wampanoag Indians, who were already settled in this area when the Pilgrims arrived. Visitors to Plimoth Plantation also have the opportunity to tour an exact replica of the Mayflower, the ship the Pilgrims sailed across the Atlantic Ocean from . This is an excellent family destination, and an enjoyable opportunity to experience life during another time.
Walk into a snapshot of history, set in the year 1627. Interpreters are dressed in clothing typical of the time, and each has his or her own identity. Ask a question and you will get a response using language and accents typical of the day. Interpreters are happy to answer your questions, but will also continue on with their daily activities, just as if it were 1627. They have a full working farm and activities happening all around that mimic life in 1627. You might see a house being built by hand, dinner being cooked over an open fire, or a town meeting where settlers hash out new laws and rules for their village. Meet Myles Standish, the colony’s military leader, and William Bradford, the governor. The buildings and guard tower represent the original structures that were built near this site.
The Wampanoag Indian site is also a living history experience. Replicas of a longhouse and a domed structure mark the location. Visit with Samoset and Massasoit, two of the Wampanoag leaders in 1627. All of the Indian interpreters are clothed in traditional dress, and engaged in activities from the time. Women might be grinding corn with a mortar and pestle, or you may see a demonstration on how to dry food for preservation.
A visit to Plimoth Plantation is really not complete without a side trip to the Mayflower II, an exact replica of the original Mayflower. You can purchase combined tickets that include both Plimoth Plantation and the Mayflower II tour. The Mayflower II is located on the waterfront, right in the city of Plymouth, and near the famous Plymouth Rock. It is a short drive from Plimoth Plantation.
Plimoth Plantation is open from late March through late November, seven days a week. In addition to the above attractions, there is a Crafts Center on site, with artisans working using traditional methods to create many of the objects you see at the plantation. Nye Barn is a special area dedicated to the preservation of rare livestock breeds, dating back to the 17th century. There are also gift shops, dining options, and a cinema on site. The following links can help organize your visit.
Basic Information:
Other nearby historical sites: Plymouth Rock, Miles Standish Monument, Miles Standish State Forest, Alden House Historic Site
Background Information:
Read an excerpt from William Bradford's Journal. True history buffs may prefer the complete, original journal, as it was written by Bradford. Read an interview with Kathleen Curtin, Plimouth Plantation's food historian. Pilgrim History from the Pilgrim Hall Museum Mayflower History: A complete site dedicated to the entire history of this time period.