The Mighty Mastiff of the Mayflower

The story of Mayflower's epic voyage across the ocean in the fall of 1620 is part of our national consciousness. It is taught to schoolchildren across the country at an early age. We all have all learned some of the basic facts. One element of the story that has not received much attention relates to the animals accompanying the passengers and sailors during the 66-day voyage to the New World. We know from William Bradford's account, chronicled in his 'Of Plimoth Plantation' there were two dogs on the ship. A Mastiff, used for hunting and protection. And a spaniel, used for hunting and retrieving water birds. The Mighty Mastiff On the Mayflower tells of the famous trip highlighting the animals and celebrating their special relationship with a young boy traveling with his parents to the New World.