Our History
The Alabama Society
The Alabama Society of Mayflower Descendants was founded in 1952. We organized as a society to commemorate the spirit of the brave Pilgrims who had such strength in times of adversity.
Beginning with the signing of The Mayflower Compact in 1620, our ancestors created a self-governing community founded upon democratic principles. The society exists to preserve their memory and educate future generations about their contributions to American history.
The Mayflower Voyage
In September 1620, 102 passengers set sail from Plymouth, England aboard the Mayflower. After a perilous 66-day voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, they arrived at what is now Provincetown, Massachusetts.
On November 11, 1620, before going ashore, the Pilgrim leaders drafted and signed the Mayflower Compact. This document established a basic framework for self-governance and is considered one of the foundational documents of American democracy.
Plymouth Colony
The Pilgrims established Plymouth Colony in December 1620. The first winter was brutal - nearly half of the colonists died from disease, cold, and starvation. However, those who survived were helped by local Native Americans, particularly Squanto, who taught them how to plant crops and fish.
The colony eventually prospered and became an important center of colonial life in New England. Plymouth Colony merged with the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1691.
The General Society
The General Society of Mayflower Descendants was founded in 1897 to preserve the memory of the Pilgrims and their descendants. Today, there are 54 member societies representing states, regions, and countries around the world.
The General Society headquarters, known as the Mayflower Society House, is located at 4 Winslow Street in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The organization maintains extensive genealogical records and supports historical and educational programs.
Our Mission
The Alabama Society of Mayflower Descendants works to:
- Preserve the memory and honor the achievements of our Pilgrim ancestors
- Support historical research and education about the Mayflower and Plymouth Colony
- Maintain accurate genealogical records of Mayflower descendants
- Promote fellowship among members who share this common heritage
- Educate the public about the Pilgrims' contributions to American history and democracy
The Mayflower Passengers
The 102 passengers aboard the Mayflower included:
- Religious Separatists seeking freedom of worship (often called "Saints" or "Pilgrims")
- Other settlers seeking economic opportunity (often called "Strangers")
- Indentured servants and hired men
- Children, including several orphans
Only 53 of these original passengers survived the first winter. From these survivors, millions of Americans can trace their ancestry.
Learn More
For more information about Mayflower history and genealogy, visit: