Explore the historic Mayflower Compact and more

1-2 minute read

By Niall Cullen | September 11, 2020

400 years on from its famous voyage, delve into the Mayflower's passenger lists to pinpoint a Pilgrim on your family tree.

Around 35 million people are descended from the Mayflower Pilgrims. Are you one of them? You could find out with this week's new releases.

Massachusetts, Mayflower Passengers 1620

This iconic collection includes the names and details of the passengers and crew that sailed on the Mayflower in 1620.

Consisting of the five pages of the Mayflower Compact, that was created and signed while on board, the records reveal the Pilgrims' names, birth years, and places and relationships to others on the ship.

Even before The Mayflower set sail, our ancestors were crossing oceans. Our collection of Registers of Licences to Pass Beyond the Seas 1573-1677 can help you find their stories.

Global Immigrant Guides

Were your migrating ancestors enticed by a settlement scheme? This fascinating collection could have the answers. Covering emigration to North America, Australia, and beyond, immigrant guides were often used by governments and companies offering incentives to settle in a particular area. They reveal all sorts of advice.

In Colonists' Handbooks: Canada, settlers were encouraged to present a letter of commendation from their church to their new clergyman.

60 different publications from around the world are included in the collection. Use them to add amazing color and context to your family's migration experiences.

Newspapers

This week, specialist paper Gentlewoman (covering 1890-1895 and 1897-1915) has arrived, along with updates to three other titles.

9 October, 1915.

We've added more pages and year coverage to:

Cork Daily Herald from 1859, 1861-1862 and 1869-1871
Fleetwood Chronicle from 1845
Boston Guardian from 1941-1952

Findmypast Fridays live

Findmypast is still the only family history website with brand new releases every week. We believe that understanding your past has the power to shape your present and future. If you agree, use #FindmypastFeatured to share your amazing family discoveries on social media.