News & Events
Society will send formal letter of support to legislators asking them to vote in favor of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Reservation Reaffirmation Act
Plymouth, MA (December 9, 2018) – The National Pilgrim Memorial Meetinghouse, designated as the place with the longest history of continuous spiritual worship in America, is changing hands. First Parish Plymouth, a Unitarian Universalist Church, the current denomination that holds services there, is donating the Meetinghouse to the General Society Mayflower Descendants (The Mayflower Society).
We did it!
On Sunday, December 9th, 2018 the representatives of the First Parish Meetinghouse resigned from the National Pilgrim Memorial Meetinghouse Trust, making the General Society of Mayflower Descendants the sole owner of the deed during an emotional service, thoughtfully titled "Forward Through the Ages" and lead by Rev. Authur Lavoie.
America's Hometown Thanksgiving Parade was a grand success!
A huge thanks to the South Carolina, Illinois, New Jersey, and Delaware Member Societies. Within twelve hours of the urgent plea for additional donations to the Meetinghouse, these generous Member Societies rose to the challenge, sending between them $53,000.00!
The General Society of Mayflower Descendants asks you to consider contributing to our greatest endeavor yet, restoring and preserving a historic legacy in America's Hometown. The National Pilgrim Memorial Meetinghouse is located on the same plot where the Mayflower Pilgrims built the original Fort/Meetinghouse by 1622. This fifth structure, begun in 1897 and completed in 1899, stands at the top of Leyden Street overlooking Plymouth's historic Town Square.
Due to severe damage from storms and age, the 1897 Meetinghouse is in dire need of immediate repairs. Restoration of the stone façade is not only essential to maintaining the structural and historical integrity of the 1897 Meetinghouse, but to ensure the building's longevity through 2020 and beyond.
Through its Norman architecture and unaltered Arts & Crafts interior, the unique stained glass windows and many Mayflower descendant contributions, the 1897 Meetinghouse celebrates the birthplace of religious and civic freedom in America established by the Mayflower Pilgrims.
How can I help?:
Click here to donate today and help us #SavetheMeetinghouse!