Learn about the Pilgrims hazardous journey into the New World by visiting the Pilgrim Hall Museum with your Plymouth car rental. Since its opening in 1824, the Pilgrim Hall Museum has been the oldest public museum in the United States. The Pilgrim Hall Museum is a gallery museum and houses some of the nation’s oldest treasures. Among some of these irreplaceable treasures are William Bradford’s Bible, Myles Standish’s sword, the only portrait of a Pilgrim (Edward Winslow) painted from life, Native American artifacts, and the remains of the Sparrow Hawk (a sailing ship that was wrecked in 1626). Run by the Pilgrim Society, the museum highlights the history of the Pilgrims and Plymouth County.

A little history

The museum building was built in 1824 and was designed by architect Alexander Parris. A wooden portico constructed by Russell Warren was added in 1834. At one point between the 1830s and 1880s the top part of Plymouth Rock sat in front of the museum until it was relocated to the Plymouth waterfront with its bottom half. In the 1880s, the museum underwent extensive upgrades and again in 2008 with a new addition. The Pilgrim Hall Museum reopened on February 1, 2009 with added air-conditioners, new entry, and added installations of permanent exhibitions highlighting the 17th century Pilgrim artifacts. To promote the museums renovation, new signs, activities and advertising also now decorate the downtown area.

Learning the story about a Pilgrims

Pilgrims are undeniably an important part of American history. When you visit the Pilgrim Hall Museum you will be able to have a more accurate image about them through the museum displays. The Museum exhibits highlight and outline the story of the Pilgrims for its visitors through impressive and interactive displays. You will also learn some history about the Native American and their impact on American history.

Celebrating Thanksgiving

Celebrate your Thanksgiving with the Pilgrim Hall Museum. Visiting the historical county of Plymouth is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday with your family. The Pilgrim Hall Museum prides itself in their special Thanksgiving exhibition. Learn about the first Thanksgiving in 1621 and the importance of the Pilgrims voyage into the New World. .

Keeping a piece of history

If you’re looking for some great souvenirs for your friends and family when you travel with your Plymouth car rental you should definitely check out The Museum Shop. Open during regular Pilgrim Hall Museum hours, you will be able to find something for everyone in here. Some things that you might find interesting include reproductions of Pilgrim Hall artifacts, educational materials, and several historical books.

Always something new to see

When you visit the Pilgrim Hall Museum with your Plymouth car rental, there is always something new going on. In addition to their existing installations, the Pilgrim Hall Museum’s always has new temporary exhibitions. Past exhibits have ranged from the American Revolution to the history of childhood.

Before you go...

Located at 75 Court Street, the Pilgrim Hall Museum is open 7 days a week from 9:30 – 4:30 February through December. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for senior citizens, $4 for children ages 5 – 17. If you are traveling as a family (2 adults and children) with Plymouth car rental the fess is $20. If you are travelling in a large group and are interested in a guided tour call (508) 746 1620 ext. 4 or contact the tour coordinator by email at amjyoung@comcast.net.

For more information on The Pilgrim Society when planning you r visit with a Plymouth car rental, visit their official website at www.pilgrimhall.org or call cat (508) 746 1620.