OF PLYMOUTH PLANTATION, by William Bradford. Samuel Eliot Morison, Editor. Knopf. Bradford’s Journal is the single most important source for Pilgrim history. This transcription in contemporary English makes the work readily accessible. Morison describes the loss and rediscovery of the manuscript itself.

MOURT’S RELATION : A JOURNAL OF THE PILGRIMS AT PLYMOUTH. Introduction by Dwight B. Heath. Applewood. Next in importance to Bradford’s account is this short eyewitness report of the landing and the first months of the Plymouth community. The writing is believed to be a joint effort by Edward Winslow and William Bradford.

THREE VISITORS TO EARLY PLYMOUTH. Sydney V. James, Jr., Editor. Applewood.
In the decade after the 1620 landing, three letter writers penned vivid descriptions of their impressions of Plymouth Colony, including an account of Governor Bradford’s wedding and the crafts and customs of the Native People.

JOHN JOSSELYN, COLONIAL TRAVELER, a critical edition of Two Voyages to New England, edited by Paul J. Lindholdt. University Press of New England. Josselyn’s life and colonial observations are seen from his experiences in New England.
Also available : NEW-ENGLANDS RARITIES DISCOVERED, John Josselyn’s description of "New World" flora and fauna. A Massachusetts Historical Society reprint of the 1672 edition.

GOOD NEWES FROM NEW ENGLAND, by Edward Winslow. Applewood. This important 1624 document, at long last available, provides vivid first-hand descriptions of important Native American and Pilgrim leaders, including Winslow’s dosing the ill Massasoit and Standish scouring the pleasure loving English settlement of Merry Mount. Rich in adventure and revealing detail, this is an essential primary source.

These recommended books should be available through your school library or public library.  Most (although not all) are still in print and available for purchase.  Many of these books, along with other reference materials, are available from the Pilgrim Hall Museum Shop.

Updated 18 May, 2005