The Mouse on the Mayflower facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Mouse on the Mayflower |
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| Genre | Thanksgiving, Animation, Adventure, Comedy |
| Written by | Romeo Muller |
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| Country of origin | United States |
| Original language(s) | English |
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| Running time | 45 minutes |
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| Distributor | DreamWorks Classics NBCUniversal Television Distribution |
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| Original network | NBC |
| Original release | November 23, 1968 |
The Mouse on the Mayflower is a fun animated TV special from 1968. It was made by Rankin/Bass Productions and animated by the Japanese studio Toei Animation. This show was the first official special released under the new Rankin/Bass name. It first aired on NBC on November 23, 1968. The story is about a brave church mouse named Willum. He secretly travels to America on the famous ship, the Mayflower. The singer Tennessee Ernie Ford provides the voice for Willum and also narrates the entire adventure.
The Story of the Mayflower Mouse
The story begins with the famous ship, the Mayflower, caught in a huge storm. The whole adventure is told by Willum, a clever church mouse. He shares his view of the journey. The tale starts with the Pilgrims deciding to move to America. They get on board the Mayflower to begin their new life.
But the ocean storm is very strong. The ship is in danger of sinking! Willum, the little pilgrim mouse, comes up with a smart idea. His quick thinking helps to save the ship and everyone on it.
When the Pilgrims finally land safely, they write an important document. It is called the Mayflower Compact. This agreement helped them set up their new colony. They also start building their new church and homes. However, it is already autumn, and they do not have much food. Winter is coming soon.
The Pilgrims then learn how to plant crops in the spring. They get help from the native people. By autumn, they have a big harvest. They celebrate with a huge feast. This special meal is their very first Thanksgiving celebration.
Meet the Voices
Many talented actors lent their voices to this special. Here are some of the main characters:
- Tennessee Ernie Ford as the Narrator and Willum Mouse, Esq.
- Eddie Albert as Captain Standish, a leader of the Pilgrims.
- John Gary as John Alden, one of the Pilgrims.
- Joanie Sommers as Priscilla Mullins, another Pilgrim.
Other Voices You Might Know
Who Made It?
A lot of people worked hard to create The Mouse on the Mayflower.
- Producers and Directors: Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin, Jr.
- Writer: Romeo Muller
- Music: Maury Laws
- Lyrics: Jules Bass
- Animation Production: Toei Animation (also known as Toei Studios)
- Key Animation: Hayao Miyazaki (he worked on this, but was not officially credited at the time!)
- Musical Director: Maury Laws
