The Pilgrims considered a wedding a civil contract not a religious one. Miles Standish performed the marriage service for ancestors Samuel Fuller and Jane Lothrop. He came on the Mayflower as a 12 year old, Jane came several years later. For the celebration and in the absence of Samuel’s parents, his neighbor Mrs. Cudworth baked a traditional and beautiful Bride Ale Cake. It was spicey and filled with dried fruits and nuts drenched with brandy then drizzled with a white boiled icing. The Cudworths were especially pleased the Fullers would be growing a family nearby. Jane’s father, Rev. Lothrop supplied plenty of beer, wood pressed cider and wine. He was first to raise his glass with blessings. Music was supplied by members of the Scituate church. Everyone would dance into the night. Samuel and Jane began their life together with good friends, good food, good music, good drink, and they had each other.
