In 1620, a small ship called the Mayflower carried 102 passengers across the Atlantic Ocean. Some were Separatists seeking the freedom to practice their religion, while others came looking for opportunity and a new life. The voyage lasted 66 days. Rough seas, cramped quarters, seasickness, and uncertainty tested nearly everyone aboard.

Their intended destination was much farther south, near the mouth of the Hudson River, in territory connected with the Virginia Company. Instead, the Mayflower arrived far north at Cape Cod. The passengers attempted to continue south, but dangerous waters and difficult conditions forced them to turn back toward the Cape.