Pilgrim Memorial Monument & Museum in Provincetown

Bottom of the monument looking up

I've written about Provincetown before, but this was the first time I actually visited the Pilgrim Monument & Museum, and it was well worth it.

The rain was coming down pretty hard so I knew I wouldn't be able to see much, but I also knew it would be worth the trek up.









Some monument facts:

• Building began in 1907 ended in 1910
• Tower is 252 feet and is 350 feet above sea level
• 116 steps to the top (oh yea, I walked it)
• The Pilgrim Monument is the tallest all-granite structure in the U.S.
• There are many stones inside detailing the different cities in Massachusetts
• President Theodore Roosevelt laid the cornerstone in 1907 and President Taft dedicated it in 1910

The museum houses the Mayflower Compact written by the original pilgrims who first landed in Provincetown before heading off to Plymouth where they started their settlement in 1620.

They stayed in Provincetown for almost two months before sailing to Plymouth. Many did die in Provincetown due to the strenuous trip from Europe, where they thought they were heading to Virginia. After falling well off course, they landed in Provincetown.

The museum also documents Provincetown originals such as the first theatre players; Susan Glaspell (novelist, actor, and founder of the Provincetown players), and Eugene O'Neill.  Loved this quote from Susan Glaspell; "We live close together and we live far apart. We all go through the same things. It's all just a different kind of same thing." Seems pretty timely doesn't it.

I also enjoy lobster when I go to Provincetown. It is so fresh and tasty. Even in the pouring rain, it is a great place to walk around and enjoy the welcoming community of Provincetown.

What a great way to spend a summer day!