A Prank Led to America’s First Nominated Female to Office, and Other Lesser Known American History Facts

33. Setback After Setback

The Mayflower and the Speedwell sailed from England to the New World on August 5^th, 1620. However, the Mayflower’s sister ship proved unfortunately named, being neither speedy nor well. The Speedwell began leaking, so the Pilgrims docked in Dartmouth for repairs. They set out again on August 21^st, but after a few days at sea, the Speedwell began leaking again.

The voyage’s leaders came to the conclusion that the Speedwell was simply not up to the task of crossing the Atlantic, and decided to leave her in England, continuing on across the ocean to the New World in the Mayflower. So after transferring supplies from the Speedwell, the Mayflower finally set out on September 6^th — over a month behind schedule. It would prove to be an arduous voyage.