While they were certainly happy to see it, Plymouth Rock was NOT the intended destination of the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower. Where were they trying to go?

In August 1620, the Mayflower and its sister ship the Speedwell set sail, carrying a mix of religious separatists and entrepreneurial types. The destination was Virginia, where the Crown had granted permission for the separatists to settle. Unfortunately, the Speedwell sprang a leak straight off the bat and everyone aboard had to cram onto the Mayflower. Due to this delay, the boat departed in mid-September, just as the winter storm season approached. Strong winds blew the boat off course — about 500 miles to the north. After a tumultuous passage lasting over two months, the Mayflower passengers rejoiced at the sight of solid land.

Last updated 4 years ago · 60.4K views · SOURCE