Traditions of Christmas: Holly

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Holly is special because the early church leaders wanted to wipe out pagan myths.  The red berries represent the blood of Christ and the green represents eternal life. It is also believed to bring good luck. In the pagan culture, Holly … Continued

Did my Ancestors Come Over on the Mayflower?

Yesterday, we celebrated Thanksgiving. The Thanksgiving tradition in America originated with the Pilgrims that came over on the Mayflower. There were 102 passengers {plus crew} that came over on the Mayflower.  However, by the end of that first winter over … Continued

History of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

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  The highlight for many households is the annual Macy’s Day Parade.  So, let’s take a look at the long history behind the parade. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade is an annual event to watch for many American households. The … Continued

Before the Mayflower: The Fight to Reach A New World

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The Pilgrims decided to relocate to Virginia, but there were still numerous obstacles ahead. Negotiations were touch and go with the Merchant Adventurers, the stock company that back them.  Some investors signed on before eventually backing out.  The plan was … Continued

Before the Mayflower: Decision to Move to the New World

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There were many reasons for the Pilgrims to want to leave Holland.  They knew that they were also not going to be welcome in England. There were legal issues abound.  An edict passed in July 1619 that prohibited the separatist … Continued

7 Ways Visiting a Museum Can Benefit Your Genealogy Research

Recently I took a group of residents in my day job to the Historical Museum in our city.  Having only lived here for a year, there is a lot I don’t know about the city. However, I realized how helpful … Continued

Before the Mayflower: Life in Leiden

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Leiden was a thriving industrial center while the Pilgrims lived there, but life was not easy for many of them. This group, which was around a 125 people, were initially thrilled to be in Leiden.  They were drawn to the … Continued

Before the Mayflower: The Scrooby Congregation

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The Scrooby Separatist Church was established by William Brewster at the Scrooby Manor House in around 1606. To avoid arrest the meetings were held in secret. The principle members of the congregation were Richard Clyfton, John Robinson and William Brewster.  … Continued