July 8 Old Mystic Connecticut

When Tony and Mary took us to Plymouth, MA, we were excited to see Plymouth Rock, but were surprised to not see the replica of the Mayflower II in port.  We found out that it was being refurbished in Old Mystic CT at Mystic Seaport Museum.  She is getting her sail ready for her 400th birthday in 2020.

We now had our next destination planned after leaving Bristol, RI.  Old Mystic, Connecticut.

Gosh it was so nice to spend time with Tony and Mary and very gracious hosts they were and served us delicious meals, awesome historic parade, sightseeing their beautiful area, watched the women win their soccer game and just had a lovely fun visit.

We arrived in Old Mystic and as usual, I read about the town we are entering.  It was about lunch time and low and behold, I read an article abut the Old Mystic Pizza Parlor where they filmed outside for the movie with Julie Roberts "Mystic Pizza"  And off we went.

We walked inside and was surrounded by a few TV screens showing the movie and just a great atmosphere.  We ordered our veggie pizza and of course add italian meatballs or sausage to the pizza. (our regular)   I have to say it was the best pizza we have ever had.

We then took in some beautiful sights, checked into our Campground, went to the grocery store.

We took a tour of the Mystic Seaport Museum.  It covers many acres, 520 watercraft, many exhibits, and much much more and very well put together.  A must see if you visit Old Mystic Connecticut.

The Replica of the Mayflower II was brought here almost 4 years ago to be refurbished for her 400 birthday in 2020.

Update:  Mayflower Sails 2020 announced the ship would come to Boston for a free maritime festival next spring, May 14 through 19, 2020, in the Charlestown Navy Yard.  The ship will return to its berth in historic Plymouth Harbor after the event. Current plans call for the ship to remain at Mystic Seaport Museum until early spring 2020 for completion of the restoration and rigging. 

I found it very interesting.  For more information click the link 

https://www.mysticseaport.org/news/2019/the-cover-comes-off/

Also at Mystic Seaport Museum were many beautiful wood boats from the early era of sailing.  One that caught John's eye was the Charles W. Morgan, this is the last of an American whaling fleet that numbered more than 2700 vessels.  Built and launched in 1841, the Morgan is now America's oldest commercial she still afloat  - only the USS Constitution is older.

Charles W. Morgan    Click link to learn more.

She typically sailed with a crew of about 35, representing sailors from around the world.  The living conditions that were endured for voyages up to 5 years would have to be seen to believe.