As the dreadful winter of 1621 neared its end, the first soft breezes eased from the south, and the Pilgrims gratefully anticipated the blessed warmth of spring. They had lost half their company during the “starving,” freezing winter and now those surviving focused on gathering their strength to plant their first crops. Yet April was to bring two more severe losses.
On April fifth the Mayflower, their last English home, left for England, breaking the final tie between the Pilgrims had their homeland. The remnant of colonists gathered on the shore to bid goodbye to the crew who had carried them safely to their new home, surely a poignant parting after so much shared misery. The colonists watched the ship fade away on the horizon, some hearts no doubt aching to return with her, yet not one colonist accepted Captain Jones’ invitation to return with the ship.
And why not? They had forsaken everything to commit to this voyage to the New World. Only estranged families, poverty and persecution waited them in England. Their future must have seemed more hopeful here in Plimoth.
Then as the colonists busied themselves in the warm April weather clearing, hoeing, digging, and hauling, Governor Carver working with the others, suddenly collapsed with a searing headache. Dr. Fuller diagnosed a heat stroke and prescribed rest and cooling. But beloved John Carver did not awaken and passed on within a few days. This was a stunning loss. Not only this good man’s death, but who could take his place? What more severe pain would the Lord demand of this community?
Then, the big decision: As their spiritual leader Elder Brewster was ineligible, for they kept strict separation of church and state, they looked for suitable candidates for a new governor. Several of the other younger men could serve admirably. After much prayer and discussion they chose William Bradford whose spiritual devotion and practical good sense displayed the special qualities the colony needed. It would be a significant change for the infant colony.