Why Did Pilgrims Celebrate New Years in March?

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Photo byPlimoth Patuxet Museums

(PLYMOUTH, MASSACHUSETTS) The Plimoth Patuxet Museums took to social media to remind the Plymouth community that today, March 25th, would have marked the new year for the pilgrims!

Photo byPlimoth Patuxet Museums

Why Did March 25th Mark The New Year?

The pilgrims saw March 25th as their New year because they followed the Julian calendar, which Julius Caesar introduced in 45 BCE as a reform to the Roman calendar. According to the Julian calendar, the English New Year was marked on March 25th, coinciding with the Feast of the Annunciation.

Photo byPlimoth Patuxet Museums

When Did Things Change?

It's important to note that the Pilgrims were not the only group to follow the Julian calendar. The calendar was widely used across Europe for over a thousand years. However, in 1582, Pope Gregorius XIII introduced the Gregorian calendar as a reform to the Julian calendar. We use the Gregorian calendar today and celebrate New Year's on January 1st.

Photo byBrooke LarkonUnsplash

The Impact of Calendar Systems on History

The Plimoth Patuxet Museums' Facebook post provides a fascinating insight into the history of calendar systems and how they have evolved. It is a reminder that history is complex and that the way we measure how significant impacts our lives and culture.

"A breathtaking view from the Fort Meetinghouse in the 17th Century English Village at Plimoth Plantation!"Photo byPlimoth Patuxet Museums

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Photo byJon TysononUnsplash