WHERE PAST MEETS PRESENT
In 1620, the Mayflower anchored off what is now Plymouth, Massachusetts
(seeplymouth.com). Times were challenging for the English settlers, but they survived. Step into their world at Plimoth Patuxet, a must-see living history museum (plimoth.org). Tour
Mayflower II, the replica of their ship; explore the “English village” to see how they lived. And chat to descendants of their neighbours, the Wampanoags, whose lives were changed.
The Pilgrims' arrival kickstarted the transatlantic migration, and 2023 sees more 400th anniversaries. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
(portsmouthnh400.org) is already partying big time. The summer festivities include jazz, reggae and gospel concerts, a Tall Ships Parade of Sail, fairs and more. Board the schooners; go for a sail. The story of Portsmouth is told at Strawbery Banke
(strawberybanke.org), yet another first-rate museum. Authentic houses set the stage; interpreters provide the plot, from the 1600s through to the 1950s. Only 15 miles inland, Dover,
New Hampshire (dover400.org) is also marking its quadricentennial, with historical re-enactments, parades and festivals.
In Massachusetts, Gloucester
(gloucesterma400.org), founded by English fishermen in 1623 and busy ever since, is America's oldest seaport. Join the 400th festivities, especially in August. During "Gloucester Fisheries Heritage Month", enjoy everything from cannon firings and net weaving to cooking workshops with fishermen's wives. More coastal pleasures include whale watching, sailing on a heritage schooner, the freshest seafood – and sandy beaches.