Hello, I am new to this list and have a few questions. I have several letters written by an ancestor, Rev. James Keith (1643-1719), who was the first Minister of the Town of Bridgewater. I have transcribed them out of his colorful hand, and I am adding historical notes, based on the people and places he mentions in them, to an appendix I am compiling. I have a reference to the Election at Plymouth, in the year 1680, and would like to find out how the election system worked in the Colony at that time. What officers were elected? I understand it was the Governor, a Deputy Governor (just 1 or more?), and a group of assistants (how many?). I would like to know what body elected these leaders, and what positions constituted the General Court of the Colony. Also, I am intensely interested in the old tradition of Election Day Sermons in the New England Colonies. I understand local Ministers were appointed by the General Court, to address the Company at the Election place. In 1680, my ancestor was appointed by Maj. William Bradford Jr., to do so at the Plymouth election. He wrote to the Pastor of the Plymouth church, Rev. John Cotton, and said that he was unable to do so, for reasons of health, and said he told Maj. Bradford to ask Mr. Cotton to do it. I would like to know, who actually did preach the election sermon at Plymouth in 1680, and if the sermon was ever published? I would appreciate any help, sources, sites and/or suggestions. Thank you very much. Joel B. Keith Born in Worcester, MA Grew up in Grafton, MA Sojourning in Lakeland, FL Through His death and resurrection, Christ has made the grave a portal; for through its gates we enter into the presence of the Living God.