The Pets of the Mayflower: Companions on a Historic Voyage
The Mayflower’s voyage to the New World in 1620 is a legendary tale of courage and perseverance, but there’s more to this historic journey than meets the eye. Beyond the human passengers, there were the pets of the Pilgrims. In this heartwarming journey back in time, we uncover the stories of animals on the Mayflower and explore their historical significance.
Pets on the Mayflower: Likely & Unlikely Voyage Companions
The Journey of the Mayflower wasn’t just a human adventure; it also accommodated an array of animals. We know through journals that while room was tight on the Mayflower, there were at least two dogs aboard for the voyage, along with some pigs and chickens accompanying the pilgrims on their journey.
Stories of Animals on the Mayflower: The Furry Crew
The Mayflower Duo: There is definitive proof that two dogs were part of the Mayflower’s voyage; an English mastiff and an English spaniel belonging to a 25-year-old Pilgrim named John Goodman. While we don’t know the names of the pups, we know enough about their breeds to help us better understand why the Pilgrims would have included them on their 66-day voyage .
The English Mastiff: Giants of History
The English Mastiff is a breed steeped in history and known for its remarkable size and calm temperament. Standing as one of the largest dog breeds in the world, an adult Mastiff can weigh in at a staggering 200 pounds or more. Their unwavering loyalty to their families makes them outstanding companions, and its highly probable that the Pilgrims included an English Mastiff for added protection.
The English Spaniel: Energetic Charmers
On the other end of the size spectrum, we have the charming English Spaniel, a breed known for its boundless energy and affectionate nature. They have a reputation for being intelligent, making them highly trainable and adaptable to various lifestyles. Bred as a hunting dog, English Spaniels make for an excellent companion when tracking and hunting small game birds.
Thanksgiving Pet Celebrations: Honoring Our Furry Forebears
As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, let’s not forget the pets of the Mayflower. Their stories are a testament to the enduring companionship and unwavering loyalty that animals bring into our lives. This Thanksgiving, let’s honor the historical significance of Mayflower pets by cherishing the furry friends who share our homes and hearts.
How do you include your pets in your Thanksgiving celebrations? Let us know by connecting with us on our socials!
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/were-there-dogs-on-the-mayflower/
https://www.wideopenspaces.com/pets-on-the-mayflower/