America's Hometown

Plymouth's history begins at the Rock. The area's history predates its modern era by many centuries with its occupation by native people. But Plymouth the settlement and eventually the town was born in 1620 by seperatist Englishmen who sought a place to practice their religion free of the Church of England. More settlers followed, the colony expanded with Boston as its center, and Plymouth became less important in the bigger picture.

But Plymouth in that first generation of settlement was home to a mighty demonstration of determination, hard work and the most basic of all needs - survival. Plymouth developed in many ways and directions. It became home to immigrants of all stripes and fostered industries born of its proximity to the sea and eventually rail. Many Plymoutheans have called the town their home for many generations. The modern story, however, begins almost 400 years ago, when a small ship filled with a hundred foreigners dropped anchor within the harbor. Winter was upon them, and their fight for survival set the stage for the decades to come.

Enter the sites listed here, and begin your adventure in Plymouth as the Pilgrims began theirs.

When you've gotta go, you've gotta go, no question about it. Luckily, public restrooms are located at several different locations in Plymouth.

There’s nothing like a secret to add mystery to the excitement leading up to an annual event like the 2009 Downtown Plymouth Waterfront Festival next Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 29 and 30.

The chicks on the southern part of the beachfront at Plymouth Long Beach are now able to fly, and the vehicle restriction has been moved northward to the adjustable groin. We are now able to accommodate approximately 100 vehicles on the beachfront.

Long overdue repairs have closed one of the town’s most popular (and inexpensive) attractions at the height of the tourist season.

The Plymouth Harbor Breakwater, the 3,500-foot jetty that arcs into the middle of the harbor, closed last Thursday while contractors restore the access bridge.

The season for fresh vegetables, flowers and other local products will start in the next week with the opening of the two farmers’ markets in downtown Plymouth.

The Plymouth Public Library is located at 132 South St., Plymouth. All events are free. For more information on any of these events, call the Plymouth Public Library at 508-830-4250 or visit www.plymouthpubliclibrary.org.

Whether you are a fan of history, a real estate professional or a trivia buff, you will be well served by visiting the Plymouth County Registry of Deeds. Enjoy each of the historic exhibits and be sure to check in on the Notable Land Record display to catch the latest submissions.

Jim Baker’s new book takes us on a stroll

Who doesn't like to spend the day on the beach? Cooling off in the water after laying out in the sun. And the Plymouth area has plenty of beaches to pick from. Which location is closest to you for some seaside fun?

Where to find Plymouth's Beaches