What did the New England colonies trade with England?

New England traded with England in the 17th and 18th centuries. Here are some of the goods frequently exchanged between these regions:

From New England to England:

-Fish: New England waters were abundant with fish, such as cod, herring, and salmon. Colonists salted, dried, or pickled the fish to preserve them for the long journey across the Atlantic. The English highly valued these fish as food, especially during Lent and other periods when meat consumption was restricted.

-Timber and Lumber: New England forests provided an ample supply of high-quality timber, including oak, pine, and maple. Colonists cut down trees, sawed them into planks, and shipped them to England. The English used this timber for shipbuilding, construction, and furniture-making.

-Furs and Pelts: Native American trappers and fur traders in New England hunted animals like beavers, foxes, otters, and deer for their fur. The New England colonists bought these furs and pelts from Native Americans and exported them to England. English hatters and other manufacturers used the furs to create clothing and accessories.

-Naval Stores: New England colonies produced naval stores, such as tar, pitch, and turpentine. These substances were essential for preserving and waterproofing wooden ships. The English navy heavily relied on these naval stores to maintain their fleet.

From England to New England:

-Manufactured Goods: New England colonists imported a wide range of manufactured goods from England. These included iron tools, firearms, cloth, clothing, glass, pottery, books, and luxury items like silk and fine furniture.

-Foodstuffs: England exported some foodstuffs to New England, such as wheat flour, cheese, and spices. While New England produced its food, these imports supplemented the local diet.

-Luxury Goods: The colonies also imported luxury goods that showcased wealth and status, including fine clothing, jewelry, decorative items, and alcoholic beverages like wine, rum, and Madeira.

-Indentured Servants and Slaves: England sent many indentured servants and enslaved Africans to New England. Indentured servants worked for several years to pay off their passage to the colonies, while enslaved Africans were forced to work without any compensation or rights.

The trade between New England and England was vital to both regions and played a significant role in the economic development and cultural exchange of the time.