Material : Wicker (willow), oak rockers, maple strut
Probably made in Holland, c1620. Descended in the Winslow family

According to tradition, Susanna and William White brought this cradle from Holland in anticipation of the birth of their child. Their son, named Peregrine, meaning “traveler” or “Pilgrim,” was born on board the Mayflower in Provincetown harbor in November of 1620.

He was the first child born to the Pilgrims in America (Oceanus Hopkins was born on board the Mayflower during the Atlantic crossing). The hooded wicker cradle is typical of those made in Holland. Similar cradles can be seen in period paintings by Vermeer and other Dutch artists. Willow osiers, or shoots, that form the cradle were woven into a checker pattern. The osiers range in size from 1/4″ on the sides to 3/4″ on the floor.

Scholars have found evidence that such cradles were also imported into Plymouth later in the century. Whether this cradle came with the White family or was purchased later, it is a symbol of the Pilgrims’ commitment to staying in America and raising their families, in contrast to other Europeans in New England at that time