Mayflower Doty, Leister Duel.
The first duel of New England is said to be that between Edward Doty and Edward Leister, servants of Steven Hopkins.  They fought with sword and dagger and both were wounded. Having no statute agains the offense, the Pilgrims met in council to determine the punishment.  It was, according to observers, exemplary.   The parties were ordered to be tied together, hand and foot, and to remain twenty-four hours without food or drink.  The intercession of their master and their own entreties procured their release before the sentence was carried out. Drake, Samuel Adams,  Nooks and corners of the New England coast. 1875                                                                    

Rebecca Nurse Hanging Mourned, But Few
Dare To Speak.

"Oh Lord, help me! It is false. I am clear. For my life now lies in your hands...."

Salem, Mass - 1692:  In what has become a frenzy of fear, accusations and condemnations, Rebecca Nurse, has succumbed to the fate of the gallows.  Although a petition was raised in her behalf,  few speak freely in apprehension of their own condemnation.  We are among those who feel the trials to be a gross and heinous miscarrage of justice based in medieval superstition. See  additional coverage

NEWS FROM THE SOUTH:
Pocahontus Calls John Smith Liar? Claims He's In Disney Land?  Jamestown, 1617: Pocahontus, who is believed to have died recently  at Gravesend before returning from abroad, was said to have been on a trip to England with her now husband, John Rolfe.  Rebecca (Pocahontus) who native Americans assert was first named "Matoaka" is reputed to have encountered John Smith (also in London at the time).  Furious with him, she turned her back to him, hid her face, and went off by herself for several hours. Later, in a second encounter, she called him a liar and showed him the door. Other accounts claim they were friendly to the end. The romantic story that she saved his life is disputed by many as simply a myth Smith created later in life.  See additional coverage

Eaton Children Put Out.
Plimoth, 1636:   Children of the deceased Mayflower passenger Francis Eaton have been placed out by their stepmother. Sources say the practice is not uncommon, and many others have done likewise. More on this story

Plentiful Harvest Celebrated. King Massasoyt attends.

Plimouth, Fall, 1621: Though the concept is historically nothing new--it's been practiced through the ages--it was a first for Plymouth Colony, and dubbed "Thanksgiving".  Three days of feasting and celebration topped off a bountiful harvest as Plimoth prepares for the Winter ahead. King Massasoyt, together with some ninety of his men, were entertained by the settlers. The King, in return, contributed several slain deer to the event which he presented to the governor.  Wild fowl, venison, ducks, geese and turkeys were among the fare.