Reverend William Brewster, Pilgrim leader (b. 1567)

William Brewster (c. 1566/67 – April 10, 1644) stands as a towering figure in the foundational story of America, an English official who became one of the most respected leaders and spiritual guides aboard the 1620 Mayflower voyage and within the nascent Plymouth Colony.

Born in Scrooby, Nottinghamshire, England, Brewster received a solid education, likely attending Peterhouse, Cambridge, though he did not earn a degree. His early career saw him serving under William Davison, Queen Elizabeth I's Secretary of State, an experience that provided him with valuable administrative skills and a keen understanding of governance. However, it was his profound religious convictions that truly set the course for his life's remarkable journey.

The Call to Separatism and Exile in the Netherlands

Brewster became a staunch advocate of Puritan Separatism, a movement distinct from the broader Puritan desire to reform the Church of England from within. Separatists, often pejoratively called Brownists, believed the Church of England was beyond reform and sought to establish independent congregations based on biblical principles. Facing increasing persecution in England for their dissenting views, Brewster and his fellow congregants, including William Bradford, sought refuge abroad. In 1608, they made the arduous move to Leiden, Netherlands, a city known for its religious tolerance.

In Leiden, Brewster became a respected elder in their congregation. He leveraged his education and administrative acumen, establishing a clandestine printing press that produced Separatist literature, which was then smuggled back into England, much to the ire of English authorities. This period in the Netherlands solidified his standing as an intellectual and a spiritual leader among his community, earning him deep respect and trust among those who would eventually embark on the journey to the New World.

Aboard the Mayflower and Leadership in Plymouth

As the prospect of cultural assimilation in the Netherlands loomed and the desire to preserve their English identity and religious freedom grew, Brewster, along with other leaders, helped organize the perilous voyage to North America. In 1620, he boarded the Mayflower with his wife, Mary, and several children. On the arduous journey, and in the critical early days of the Plymouth Colony, Brewster’s experience, wisdom, and steadfast faith proved invaluable. Unlike many of his fellow passengers, he possessed a formal education and a background in both official administration and theological study, making him uniquely qualified to guide the community.

Upon their arrival and the establishment of Plymouth, William Brewster assumed the crucial role of senior elder. In this capacity, he was not merely a spiritual guide but also the de facto leader of the community, particularly in the absence of an ordained minister. He preached, offered counsel, provided moral leadership, and helped navigate the complex challenges of establishing a new settlement in an unforgiving wilderness. His stature, built on years of shared struggle and his inherent wisdom, ensured that his voice carried significant weight in the colony’s decisions, shaping its early governance and spiritual life until his death in 1644.

Frequently Asked Questions about William Brewster

Who was William Brewster?

William Brewster was a prominent English official, Puritan Separatist leader, and one of the most influential passengers on the 1620 Mayflower voyage. He served as the senior elder and de facto spiritual and community leader of Plymouth Colony for many years.

What was his role on the Mayflower voyage?

Brewster was a key organizer of the voyage and a respected elder among the Separatist contingent. His leadership and wisdom were crucial for maintaining morale and order during the difficult transatlantic journey.

Why was William Brewster so important in Plymouth Colony?

In Plymouth Colony, Brewster served as the senior elder, providing essential spiritual guidance, moral leadership, and administrative counsel. With his education, experience, and deep respect from the community, he effectively led the Separatist congregation and played a vital role in the colony's early survival and development, especially in the absence of a formally ordained minister.

What were his religious beliefs?

William Brewster was a Puritan Separatist, also known as a Brownist. This meant he believed the Church of England was corrupt and could not be reformed, advocating for complete separation and the establishment of independent congregations based on what he considered biblical principles.

Where did William Brewster live before coming to Plymouth?

Before the Mayflower voyage, William Brewster and his fellow Separatists lived in Leiden, Netherlands, from 1608 to 1620. Prior to that, he resided in England, where he served as an official under Queen Elizabeth I.