John Alden, Murder Suspect? A Tale of the Fur Trade

Join historian Dr. Walter Powell for a fascinating talk about the 17th century Plymouth Colony Fur Trade, vital to Plymouth Colony's economic survival, with competition from rivals was always a concern. In 1634, a violent confrontation near the Plymouth Colony trading post at Cushnoc (present day Augusta, Maine) led to the death of two colonists and the arrest of John Alden as a murder suspect. In this illustrated presentation, Dr. Powell will explore the story behind an event that Governor William Bradford called "one of the saddest things that befell them since they came."   

 Dr. Powell currently serves as a Rare Books and Manuscripts Associate for J. James Auctioneers & Appraisers in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and as a seasonal on-board guest lecturer for American Cruise Lines.  He was the first professional executive director of the General Society of Mayflower Descendants and worked as a historian and in the field of historic preservation.    

 Alden House Historic Site is part of the original land grant given to Mayflower Passengers John and Priscilla Mullins Alden in 1627 and home to generations of Alden descendants.  Designated a National Historic Landmark Alden House is open seasonally for guided tours and educational programs.