Crown Center | Kansas City

Cole's Hill is a prominent historical site located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, overlooking Plymouth Harbor.

Visual Characteristics

Cole's Hill is a sloping, grassy hill. The terrain is uneven, with exposed bedrock in some areas. The summit offers a clear view of Plymouth Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. A prominent monument, the Plymouth National Monument to the Forefathers, stands at the crest of the hill.

Location & Access Logistics

Cole's Hill is situated directly behind the Mayflower II replica and Plymouth Rock, adjacent to the historic downtown area of Plymouth. Access is via Leyden Street or Carver Street. Parking is available in municipal lots within a 0.5km radius, such as the one on Water Street. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is on Court Street, approximately 1km inland.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Cole's Hill served as the first cemetery for the Plymouth Colony settlers. It is the burial site of many of the original colonists who perished during the first winter of 1620-1621. The hill's geological origin is glacial till, a deposit left by retreating glaciers.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the Plymouth National Monument to the Forefathers, which depicts various figures representing Pilgrim virtues. Walking the pathways provides views of Plymouth Harbor. The site is used for historical interpretation and reflection.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the base of the hill near the waterfront. Limited shade is provided by scattered trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good. Food vendors and restaurants are located along the adjacent waterfront.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions due to the westward orientation of the hill relative to the harbor. The months of May through October provide the most temperate weather for outdoor visits. No tide-specific access requirements exist.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical fact is that the hill was leveled and covered with seaweed to provide a more level and defensible position for the colonists. Local lore suggests that the spirits of the early settlers still watch over the harbor.

Nearby Landmarks

• Plymouth Rock (0.1km South)
• Mayflower II (0.2km South)
• Plimoth Patuxet Museums (2.5km West)
• National Monument to the Forefathers (0.05km North)
• Pilgrim Hall Museum (0.8km Northwest)