Arthur Middleton (1681–1737) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Arthur Middleton
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| 22nd Governor of South Carolina | |
| In office May 7, 1725 – December 1730 |
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| Monarch | George I George II |
| Preceded by | Francis Nicholson |
| Succeeded by | Robert Johnson |
| Personal details | |
| Born | October 29, 1681 South Carolina |
| Died | September 17, 1737 (aged 55) South Carolina |
| Spouse | Mary Williams Middleton Sarah Middleton |
| Children | Henry, Hester, Thomas, William |
| Profession | planter, governor |
Arthur Middleton (October 29, 1681 – September 17, 1737) was an important person in early South Carolina history. He was a large farm owner, also known as a planter. He also served as the Acting Governor of the Province of South Carolina. This was a big responsibility, like being the leader of the area, from May 7, 1725, to December 1730.
Contents
Early Life and Family
Arthur Middleton was born on October 29, 1681, in South Carolina. His father, Edward Middleton, and his uncle, also named Arthur, moved to South Carolina in 1678. They came from Barbados.
They settled on a large piece of land near Charles Town. Edward Middleton bought more land and started a big farm. He named this farm "The Oaks."
Arthur Middleton later married Mary Williams and Sarah Middleton.
Growing Up and Becoming a Leader
Arthur's father passed away in 1685. This left the large farm, "The Oaks," to his mother, Sara, and young Arthur.
During this time, English colonists learned how to grow rice. They used the skills and hard work of enslaved Africans. The Oaks plantation started to make a lot of money. By 1720, the farm had grown to over 5,000 acres. Arthur Middleton owned many enslaved people who worked on his land.
Arthur Middleton became a very important person in Carolina. He was part of the "gentry," which meant he was from a wealthy and powerful family. In 1710, he even traveled to London. He went there to talk about political issues in the Carolinas.
Serving as Governor
Arthur Middleton became the Acting Governor of the Province of South Carolina. He took on this role on May 7, 1725. He served as governor until December 1730. During his time as governor, he helped lead the colony.
Later Life and Legacy
Arthur Middleton passed away on September 17, 1737. He was 56 years old. At the time of his death, he still owned many enslaved people.
He had eight children, but only three of them lived to adulthood. His wife, Sarah Middleton, died many years later, on September 24, 1765.
Arthur Middleton played a key role in the early development of South Carolina.
