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In 1626, this small vessel
brought 25 passengers and their possessions from Europe to America. Bound for
Virginia, they landed in distress on Cape Cod after the hardships of a stormy voyage of 6
weeks.
The details of the shipwreck are found in William Bradford’s Of Plymouth
Plantation. Guided to Plymouth by Cape Cod Natives, two survivors told their sad
story to Governor Bradford, who immediately sent a shallop to rescue the stranded
passengers and crew. |
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The Pilgrims provided food
and shelter for the castaways for nine months, at which time two vessels heading for
Virginia gave them transport.
The Sparrow-Hawk is the only surviving remains of a 17th century trans-Atlantic
vessel. These original timbers exemplify the small, sturdy ships vital to the
colonization of America. Their size is evidence of the courage of those who undertook the
journey to the New World. |
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The Sparrow-Hawk,
of about 36 tons and 40 feet in length, was typical of 17th century
vessels. The Mayflower, of 180 tons, was one of the largest. The Fortune,
which came to Plymouth in 1621, was about 50 tons.
After being wrecked in 1626, the Sparrow-Hawk was buried in sand
and mud in a part of Orleans later known as "Old Ship Harbor." The timbers were
visible from time to time until 1862, when they were uncovered in a great storm. The
ancient hull was removed and reassembled. After exhibition in many cities, it was
presented to the Pilgrim Society in 1889.
The Sparrow-Hawk is now on display at the Cape Cod Maritime Museum
in Hyannis. |
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