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Austerfield

St Helena's Church, Austerfield nr Doncaster

William Bradford of Austerfield, a small village near Doncaster, became the second elected Governor of the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts in 1621. He continued to serve the Colony for almost 30 years. Bradford was baptised in St Helena's Church where the original font can still be seen today.

The church has a stunning stained glass window commemorating William Bradford, the Mayflower, the early Plymouth Colony and the signing of the Mayflower Compact. Two of Bradford’s most famous quotes; ‘we knew that we were Pilgrims’ and ‘one small candle’, from his seminal book, ‘Of Plimouth Plantation’ can be seen.

Just a short walk from St Helena's is Butten Meadow and its Delft-tiled plaque commemorating the voyage of the Mayflower and Mayflower passenger, William Butten.

The plaque is a charming memorial to this teenager who died just before land was sighted and has no known grave.

Sign commemorating William Butten who died on the Mayflower journey.
Austerfield Manor House

Further along, and opposite the Austerfield Study Centre (a 70 acre environmental education centre and community hub), is Austerfield Manor House, reputedly where William Bradford grew up. Although the Manor House is a private residence, it can easily be viewed from the road.

VISITING BY TRAIN

Take the train from London Kings Cross to Doncaster, around 1 hr 40 minutes. From Doncaster Interchange take the no. 25 bus towards Worksop. After 25 minutes, leave the bus in Bawtry and walk the remaining 15 minutes to Austerfield. Plan your journey here.

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