What an absolute joy it was, our Society of Mayflower Descendants (Europe) trip to Plymouth (Friday July 5th ), which was followed the next day by a BBQ and AGM in Dorset.  Even the wet weather couldn’t dampen the spirits of this group of very distant cousins and their friends and partners, as they met for the first time adjacent to the Mayflower Steps at the Barbican in Plymouth. The seven ancestors, plus seven guests, were treated to a very informative walking tour of 90 minutes, with local guide Hannah Poole of Plymouth Walking Tours. How interesting to learn how the history of the city has shaped its streets as we see them today. There are still a few Elizabethan buildings in evidence, but much of Plymouth was bombed during WW2. The walking tour ended on Plymouth Hoe (of Sir Francis Drake fame), with binoculars passed around so members could see out as far as the Eddystone Lighthouse, the original site of the famous Smeaton’s Tower (red and white old lighthouse on the Hoe). A short walk back to the Barbican saw the group having a quick coffee break before crossing the road to visit the Mayflower Museum, located at the Tourist Information Centre. A five- minute walk up the road later took us to our lunch venue, The Barbican Kitchen located conveniently over the Plymouth Gin Distillery. Our pre-ordered and delicious lunches were eaten just in time for our distillery tour and tasting. Oh my! We could justify visiting the distillery as it stood on the site of the Dominican priory of Blackfriar’s Monastery, which was built in the early 1400’s and stood in that spot during the Mayflower period. There is speculation that some of our ancestors may have had a meal there before leaving on the Mayflower. There is no proof, of course, but it was good enough for us (and the gin itself also has a very proud history). Day one was finished, and everyone headed off for the night. The next day, Saturday 6th July was brighter as everyone descended on the home of Secretary Donna Heys in Dorset. But the inconvenient breeze and threat of a little shower meant that the diners settled inside, with hastily-erected folding tables up the centre of the kitchen. The chaos only added to the fun and chatter, with just the impending AGM via Zoom preventing the Board members relaxing too much. This meeting was the first AGM (annual general meeting) held by our Society chapter, and it was available to members in person and via Zoom. Such a lot was covered and discussed under the very able guidance of Governor Carmen Kew. While the members were at the meeting, the kitchen fairies (Sylvia Geissler and team) had visited and tidied away the aftermath of the BBQ! Secretary Heys was deeply grateful. The meeting attendees took a few minutes to unwind with a G&T before organising the guests and serving a traditional English cream high tea. The day was over; the two days were wonderful. We had members and guests not only from England but the Netherlands, USA, Germany, and Belgium. We said on the Board that one of our goals for the SMD(E) was to build a community, and with this event we have truly made a start. Maybe we’ll see you at the next event? DH - 12/08/2024