Genealogy Friday: I Think I’m a Descendant of the Pilgrims

With Thanksgiving approaching, we are focused on the Pilgrims.  It is estimated that there are over 10 million Americans living that are descended from the Pilgrims.

In 1620, 102 people set out on a journey to the new world.  However, the conditions were harsh and illness became widespread that first winter with over half of those that came over on the Mayflower perishing.  Of those onboard ship, 24 males went on to produce children to carry on their surnames. 

So, what do I do if I think I’m a descended from a pilgrim?

  1. Begin by researching your own tree, starting with yourself and moving back towards your parents and grandparents
  2. Be thorough in your research and keep copies of all documentation
  3. Determine which pilgrim you are descended through {you may be like I am and descended through several}
  4. Learn as much about your Mayflower ancestor as possible so you will know more about him/her and what life was like and how they lived
  5. Check published records of the Pilgrim descendants to make sure your information matches with the proven documentation
  6. Contact the Mayflower society and have your lineage reviewed {if you care to join}
  7. Join your local Mayflower society {if you choose}
  8. Visit Plymouth Plantation, Plymouth Rock, Mayflower II, Alden House, and other historical sites {if you are in the area and choose}
  9. Visit graves of Pilgrim ancestors {if you choose}
  10. Discover others that may be descended from that Pilgrim

Have you discovered a connection to a Mayflower ancestor?

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