We are staying in Newlyn and fun fact: there's a distinct possibility that the Mayflower actually "set sail" from here rather than from Plymouth.

And here we thought Newlyn was just a pleasant little fishing village where they land literal boatloads of seafood to ship out to fine restaurants everywhere. I feel guilty for just blithely strolling through ten years ago, not really paying attention. And here it turns out there are fascinating tidbits of the history genre everywhere you turn. (At least, they're fascinating for us history nerds.)  

The Mayflower had just started out on their journey when they realized their drinking water was contaminated. Of course they had to make one final stop before heading for the Americas because hydration, cleanliness. According to historian Bill Best Harris, who may someday be able to whisper "I told you so" from his grave, the Mayflower decided to stop at Newlyn.

If this is true, then Newlyn was the Mayflower's final port of call before heading across the ocean. So which town gets to claim that it was the port from which the pilgrims "set sail" for America? 

There is a plaque about this and Betsy and I will find it. I know the plaque ends with "Let debate begin" which I think adds a nice touch. I'm sure there is debate about this going on somewhere.​