Mayflower Descendants visit Plymouth MA

That's the Mayflower II
behind me in Plymouth Harbor.

 For those of us with Mayflower ancestry, a visit to Plymouth Mass is a wonderful way to spend some time.  There is so much to see, as well as lots of our shared history to learn.  On a September 2023 visit I was blessed to be involved in the following:

• MWH (my sweet husband) and I spent several days on Cape Cod, including seeing Provincetown, First Encounter Beach, and Corn Hill.  All three are important parts of my ancestors arrival in November 1620.  Friends from Boston gave us the use of their home in Wellfleet, which was a very nice place to rest for a few days.
• We traveled to the Massachusetts Statehouse, with a special viewing of the William Bradford documents.  These are not available for the public to view, but were brought out for our members to see... a wonderful opportunity.
• I attended a banquet and meetings for the Pilgrim John Howland Society, of which I am a member.  It was great to meet some of my "cousins" and get to know more about this organization.
• I wore my Mayflower costume for the first time!  Well, part of it anyway.  I left a number of pieces home, as I knew the weather would be warm AND when traveling I only bring a carry-on suitcase.  So the sleeves for the jacket, chemise, apron, and hat didn't make the trip. Next time!

My new costume!

PJHS banquet, with re-enactors John and
Priscilla Alden, and (in the dark costume),
my 12x great-grandfather John Howland.

• 

  Nancy (from the Texas Society),
  me, and Jenney (Oregon's
  in-coming deputy governor).
  
  

  I was privileged to participate in the GSMD (General Society of Mayflower Descendants) Congress, which happens every three years.  As an Oregon board member, I was one of two voting delegates representing the Oregon Society of Mayflower Descendants.  Votes  were held for the GSMD Governor General  and other national board members.  As the in-coming Governor for Oregon, this was a wonderful learning and observing opportunity for me.  Oregon's out-going Governor, Beth Lambright, was elected to one of three member-at-large positions, which is a huge honor both for Oregon AND for the entire western US.  

I hope you are all enjoying the Fall weather, dear readers.  Carry on!