Thomas Faunce

Thomas Faunce (c. 1647 – 27 February 1746) was an American church elder, record keeper, and the origin of the Plymouth Rock myth.

Early life Faunce was born around 1647 in the Plymouth Colony to John Faunce and Patience Morton. His father, John, had arrived in Plymouth in 1623 aboard the ship Anne, just three years after the Pilgrims arrived aboard the Mayflower. Twenty-three original Pilgrims were alive in Faunce's youth, and he grew up hearing stories of their arrival in Plymouth.

"The Landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock, 1620" by Peter F. Rothermel, 1854. Oil on canvas. The people of Plymouth generally believed Faunce's claim due to his proximity to the Mayflower Pilgrims in his youth. The wharf was built, but the rock was left untouched. Over time, the story was popularized.

Personal life In 1672, Faunce married Jane Nelson. They had seven children.

Faunce died on February 27, 1746, at age 99.