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Birth: Christopher Martin was born about 1582, probably in
Billericay, Essex.

Death: He died aboard the Mayflower on January 8, 1620/1.

Ship: Mayflower, 1620

Life in England: Christopher Martin lived in the Billericay
area of Great Burstead, Essex. By 1607 he was there working as
a mercer [merchant] although he probably had not served a formal
apprenticeship. He was likely a Puritan, as he and his wife
refused to kneel at holy communion on Easter, 1612 and their
son did not have godparents.

Life in New England: Christopher Martin was chosen “treasurer
agent” for the colonists by the investors in England and
obtained provisions for the venture, along with Robert
Cushman and John Carver, in Leiden.The three disagreed from
the first, and Martin bought his provisions in Kent, contrary to
the others’ wishes. Martin was chosen governor of the
Mayflower, in charge of the passengers and provisions.According
to Cushman, he refused to discuss the accounts, insulted the passengers
and the “sailors also are so offended at his ignorant boldness
in meddling and controlling in things he knows not what
belongs to, as that some threaten to mischief him; others say they
will leave the ship and go their way.” He came to Plymouth
Colony with his wife, stepson/servant Solomon Prower and servant
John Langemore.

Family: Christopher Martin married Mary (_____) Prower on
February 26, 1606/7, in Great Burstead, Essex and had at least
one son. She was the widow of _____ Prower by whom she had
one son.

Children of Mary and _____ Prower:

• Solomon died on December 24, 1620.
  
• Children of Christopher and Mary Martin:
  
• Nathaniel was baptized on February 26, 1609/10. He was
  apparently still alive in 1620, but nothing further is known.