by Susan E. Carr

Created on: November 01, 2009   Last Updated: January 21, 2010

In order to understand Pilgrim culture, it is important to understand their history and background.  There are some myths associated with the Pilgrims, while at the same time we do know a number of important facts.  What is known for certain is that they were English with traditional English backgrounds specific to the times in which they lived. They professed faith and that faith was Protestant. They upheld and practiced their beliefs with fervour to the degree that all areas of their lives reflected this. They lived in a time in which there was belief in folklore, good and evil, witches, astronomy, and herbal medicines. Their traditions specifically included the practice of being thankful to God for any good fortune. Therefore, prior to coming to the New World they would have had seasonal festivals, one of which would have taken place during the time of harvest in order to give thanks for the bountiful gift of food.

Although the Pilgrims are often depicted in black and white dress their manner of dress was typical of English fashion however, few items of their original clothing exist. According to historical documents, such as inventories and wills that do list articles of clothing, persons such as William Brewster left a "blew cloth suit" to his son. Bradford had a "turkey red grograin suit, red waistcoat, tawny colored suit with silver buttons, and a violet cloak of velvet lined taffeta" Mrs. Winslow wore a "pointed, narrow lace-trimmed, slipper". We do know that the Pilgrims were not only knowledgeable about fabric and clothing but were also employed in businesses that create clothing and that they were employed as tailors, cloth-makers, silk workers, wool combers and carders and even hatters, as well as boot and shoe merchants. Although the Pilgrims were of the "common folk" they would have conformed to the styles of the day, but perhaps in a more simplified manner.

The Pilgrims would learn how to till and cultivate the land, fish and hunt, but this was definitely something they were for the most part not used to. They did have knowledge of carpentry and building and were capable of constructing their own homes and furnishings. Their food supplies and meals, although somewhat altered in the New World, reflected their own English background of taste, cooking methods and seasonings.

Intrinsic to their culture was their religious belief system. These beliefs were based on simple concepts of worship and biblical teachings rather than ritual and symbolism. They displayed tolerance when dealing with others and from all accounts they were warm, generous, and thoughtful to their fellow citizens. These underpinning concepts included the compliance of the will of the majority in decision making. They believed in equal rights and equal duties for members of the congregation.

In the final analysis, it is the Pilgrim culture that influenced the founding principles of a great nation. Their courage and determination, along with their abiding spirits is their cultural legacy, still visible today.

Reference: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com

Learn more about this author, Susan E. Carr.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.