Forefathers’ Day

Forefathers’ Day honors the courage and determination of America’s earliest settlers. Each December 22, communities—especially in Plymouth, Massachusetts—gather to remember the Pilgrims who crossed the Atlantic in search of a better life.

History

In 1620, the Mayflower carried 102 passengers from England to the shores of what is now Massachusetts. Originally there were two ships, but one sprang a leak in port, forcing everyone aboard the Mayflower. Conditions were cramped and unsanitary, leading to illness and several deaths. Despite these hardships, the settlers established a colony at Plymouth.

Descendants of the Pilgrims founded Forefathers’ Day to honor their ancestors’ bold journey and unwavering faith. The Old Colony Club marked the first observance in 1769, but widespread celebrations did not begin until the 1880s.

Interesting Facts

• Of the 102 original settlers, only 19 were women; two children were born during the Atlantic crossing.
• Onboard the Mayflower, the passengers drafted the Mayflower Compact—an early form of self-governance.
• When the second ship never arrived, its timbers were repurposed to repair the Mayflower’s hull.
• The Pilgrims first intended to settle near present-day New York but chose Cape Cod instead before moving on to Plymouth.

How to Take Part

Celebrate Forefathers’ Day by exploring America’s early history. Visit local museums, attend commemorative events in Plymouth or your hometown, and host an ancestral gathering. Share stories of your own family’s heritage to keep the legacy alive.

When is Forefathers’ Day in 2025?

Forefathers’ Day is observed on December 22 each year.

Observations