Southampton 1620

Even in 1620, Southampton was a thriving seaport which had sent many ships across the Atlantic in the past. The Mayflower and Speedwell chose to meet in Southampton as it had everything they needed to prepare themselves for the journey. Then, a town with a population of 4,200, it looked very different to the vibrant city we know now.

Below, Maria Newbery, Curator of Maritime and Local collections for Southampton City Council, explains more about Southampton in 1620 and the significant locations that still exist today.