Recent Discoveries on Tisquantum

In-person and Online.

Until the groundbreaking work of researcher and archivist Purificacion Ruiz, and her writing partner and translator Antonio Giron, very little was known about Tisquantum's time in Spain following his abduction from Patuxet in 1614. Nothing beyond hearsay. Using newly found primary sources, they have (and continue to) shed light on Tisquantum's European adventure. While conducting research on a completely unrelated subject, Purificacion Ruiz came across a highly unusual document in the Notarial Records section of the Archivo Historico Provincial of Malaga, Spain. It was a deed dated October 22, 1614. The document recorded the transfer of more than twenty-five indigenous men held by Thomas Hunt, an Englishman who was also the master of the ship La Isabela. Hunt had been part of Captain John Smith's small fleet mapping the New England coast. The authenticity of the deed is beyond discussion, because the document bears the actual signature of Thomas Hunt in extremely clear and perfectly preserved script. It is self-evident that the twenty-five captives mentioned are the Wampanoag men stolen by Thomas Hunt after Captain Smith had returned to England. Tisquantum was among those stolen Wampanoag men.

Speaking from their homes in Malaga and Madrid, Purification Ruiz and Antonio Giron will share the remarkable discoveries that influenced Squanto: A Native Odyssey and share the discoveries of their recent research that adds vibrant detail to the lives of the Wampanoag men taken captive and the men involved in Malaga's slave trade. They will be in conversation with Dr. Drew Lipman (Associate Professor of History, Barnard College), Richard Pickering (Deputy Executive Director & Senior Historian) and Plimoth Patuxet Museums staff.

This program is free to members and included with daily admission.

Following the lecture, Dr. Lipman's book will be available for purchase.

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FAQs

What can I bring into the event?

You may bring a bagged lunch or snack to enjoy while you experience the lecture series. Our Plentiful Café is open from March 23-December 1. Lunch is not included in the ticket price.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Please contact Christina Coleman, Director of Education and Group Programs, at (508) 746-1622 ext. 8107 or by emailing [email protected], with any questions or if you would like to purchase tickets over the phone.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

You do not have to bring your printed ticket to the event. You may give your name to the Event Facilitator at check-in.

Host or Publisher Plimoth Patuxet: Commemorating 400 Years 1620-2020