Benjamin Gonson facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Benjamin Gonson
Born	1525 Parish of St Dunstan-in-the-East, London, England
Died	1577 London, England
Buried	St Dunstan-in-the-East
Allegiance	England
Service/branch	Royal Navy
Years of service	1540–1577
Commands held	Surveyor and Rigger of the Navy Treasurer of the Navy

Benjamin Gonson (born around 1525, died 1577) was an important English naval leader. He was the very first person to hold the job of Surveyor of the Royal Navy. This meant he was in charge of checking and maintaining the ships of England's navy.

He was also a key person in setting up England's Navy Board. This board was a new group created to manage the country's warships during the Tudor period, when kings and queens like Henry VIII and Elizabeth I ruled.

Benjamin Gonson's Career

Benjamin Gonson started his working life building ships for private owners. He then began working for the government.

In 1546, King Henry VIII created a new group called the Council of the Marine. This group was set up to better organize and run the Royal Navy. Benjamin Gonson was chosen to be the first Surveyor and Rigger of the Navy. In this role, he made sure the ships were in good condition and ready for battle.

He held this important job until 1549. After that, he was given an even bigger role. On April 8, 1549, he became the Treasurer of Marine Causes. This meant he was in charge of all the money for the navy. He managed the navy's finances by himself for many years. Later, he shared this role with another famous naval leader, Admiral John Hawkins.

His Family Life

Benjamin Gonson followed in his father's footsteps. His father, Vice-Admiral William Gonson, was also a high-ranking officer in the navy.

Benjamin Gonson married a woman named Ursula Hussey in 1546. Her father, Anthony Hussey, was a judge who dealt with sea-related laws. Benjamin and Ursula had many children together. He passed away in December 1577.

See also

• Admiralty in the 16th century
• Navy Board
• Tudor Navy
• William Gonson