I researched and wrote a brochure on the sailing of the Mayflower to the ‘New World’ in 1620 to raise awareness and sponsorship for Dartmouth Mayflower 400 ahead of the 400th anniversary of this world-changing event.
Dartmouth has always been a safe haven for seafarers. Its sheltered, deep-water harbour is one of the best natural harbours on England’s south-west coast and is the reason why the area is steeped in maritime history. Today, this busy port is home to the Britannia Royal Naval College, a fishing fleet and a multitude of boatowners. Local ferries and visiting yachts, motorboats and cruise ships add to the vibrancy on the water.
Explorers and pioneers, ancient and modern, set out from this picturesque town, passing Dartmouth Castle at the mouth of the River Dart to reach the open sea and distant lands. Famously, Dartmouth was a point of departure for the Pilgrims who set sail on the Mayflower and Speedwell in 1620 to start a colony in the ‘New World’. The 400th anniversary of this extraordinary adventure was recognised in 2020 with a planned international commemoration. This focused on creating permanent features in the town – from guided tours to riverfront sculptures – adding to its rich history.
