7. Mayflower carried heavy weapons and live animals
During the early 17th century, even merchant ships carried weapons for defense, against pirates and other enemies. Mayflower carried an unusually heavy armament, at least 14 cannons, ten of which lined either side of its gun deck. The gun deck also provided lodging for most of the ship’s passengers, though the Pilgrim leaders may have shared cabin space in the poop house, a structure rising above the decks at the ship’s stern. The structure also housed Captain Jones’ cabin, and his chart house. Weapons owned by the passengers, including small cannons intended for the defense of the settlement, were carried in the hold, as well as most of the passengers’ personal belongings.
No draft animals nor cattle accompanied the Pilgrims on their journey, though live animals were aboard. Ships on long voyages commonly carried pigs and poultry, to provide fresh meat and eggs on the journey. These quickly became underweight and sickly, and were likely slaughtered early during the voyage, since carrying sufficient feed to sustain them took up needed space. They also consumed fresh water. The Pilgrims also carried goats, as a source of fresh meat and milk for the children. Most of the passengers, as well as the crew, consumed beer as their primary beverage. Beer did not acquire the living things which water in wooden casks rapidly developed. Upon arrival in the New World, Captain Jones suspended the serving of beer, needing to retain his supplies for his crew’s consumption during the return voyage.