Virtual Voyages for Mayflower 400

Viewers from around the world tuned in to watch the virtual opening of Leiden400 in Holland, part of the commemorative year of the sailing of the Mayflower.
PilgrimAGE marks the Pilgrims association with the West Lindsey areaPilgrimAGE marks the Pilgrims association with the West Lindsey area
PilgrimAGE marks the Pilgrims association with the West Lindsey area

Chairman of West Lindsey District Council, Coun Steve England and Leader of West Lindsey District Council, Coun Giles McNeill were among those invited to attend the virtual celebrations earlier this month.

During the live event, viewers were able to enjoy a unique virtual guided tour of the city of Leiden and explore some of the locations where the Pilgrims lived.

The tour also offered a fascinating insight to the story of Leiden in the Golden Age and the role of the Pilgrims during this period.

Coun McNeill said: “It was lovely to see the beautiful city of Leiden in the sunshine and be guided around the various elements of their commemoration.

“I had been invited to attend the celebrations in person, but with the global Covid-19 pandemic, that was not possible. So, they decided to do a virtual event, with participants in Holland observing social distancing.

“I believe over 30,000 people tuned in – far more than would ever have been able to attend in person, so it was a great success.

“I congratulate them on their initiative.”

This year marks the 400 anniversary of the Mayflower setting sail from England to America.

Many of her passengers, known as the Pilgrims, came from around Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, with some thought to have worshipped in secret at Gainsborough Old Hall.

Before they made this historic voyage, the two main groups were based in Gainsborough and the nearby village of Scrooby.

They decided to escape to Holland in search of religious freedom.

One group escaped in a barge called the Francis from Gainsborough’s riverside, making their way to Holland, where they lived for twelve years before some of them sailed to America.

To watch the tour, visit www.mayflower400uk.org/virtual-voyages.

West Lindsey District Council has also launched PilgrimAGE, a digital series that will allow people to explore the story of the Pilgrims and their roots.

The campaign will run throughout the summer, leading up to the anniversary in September.

To follow the PilgrimAGE campaign like Discover Gainsborough and Pilgrim Roots on Facebook or follow @DiscoverGains and 
@PilgrimRoots on Twitter.

There is also more information at www.discovergainsborough.com/pilgrimroots and www.pilgrimroots.co.uk.

For more information about the national project visit www.mayflower400uk.org.