Birth of the USA
Bassetlaw prides itself on being the birthplace
of the United States of America.
In the 16th century Bassetlaw church
congregations wanted to reform the traditional systems of the
church. Those who believed in greater religious tolerance and the
freedom of worship became known as separatists.
In 1620 two leading separatists, a Scrooby
postmaster called William Brewster and a parson from Babworth
called Richard Clyfton joined dozens of other religious pilgrims
and sailed on the Mayflower to start a new life in America. William
Brewster played a major part in founding the new society. He
enjoyed a senior position as a ruling elder until his death in
1644.
The Mayflower Trail
This is a circular tour of 38-40 miles visiting
the historic villages and sites of Pilgrim Fathers’ Country. The
tour takes around half a day, allowing you to complete the trail at
a leisurely pace. The Mayflower Trail Tour includes visits to the
following sites:
Babworth
In 1503 Margaret Tudor, then only 14, stopped
here on her way to marry King James IV of Scotland.
All Saints’ Church
The origins of religious separatism are closely
connected with the rectory and church of Babworth. Richard Clyfton
was parson here from 1586 to 1605. The church contains many
interesting items recalling the Pilgrim Fathers. At the side of the
church a track known as the “Pilgrim Way” leads north.
Babworth to Scrooby
The A638, England’s Old Great North Road, the
former haunt of the notorious highwayman Dick Turpin, leads to
Scrooby. William Brewster who worked as “Master of the Postes”
would have known of the exploits of Dick Turpin. Before arriving at
Scrooby you will pass Ye Olde Bell Hotel at Barnby Moor, a famous
old posting house for mail coaches, where Queen Victoria and her
mother once stayed.
Last Updated - 15/12/2008