The Pilgrims talked a little differently than we do today. If you visit the Museum's 17th-Century English Village, you will notice that the townspeople say words you know in a funny way, or even say some words you don't know at all. That's because they are speaking in 17th-century English, not 21st-century modern English.

Here are a few examples of English words, greetings and phrases that would have been used by the Pilgrims. Practice them at home and you could talk like a Pilgrim too!

  • Good morrow
  • How now?
  • How do you fare?
  • What cheer?

Pray pardon me

Huzzah

  • God bye to you
  • Fare thee well
  • Pray remember me

Hearth

Mouser

Pottage

Breeches

Petticoat

Arsy varsy

Pillowbere

Banner Image by Kathy Tarantola Photography