Charles Craven facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Craven
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| 21st Governor of South Carolina | |
| In office March 19, 1712 – April 23, 1716 |
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| Monarch | Anne George I |
| Preceded by | Robert Gibbes |
| Succeeded by | Robert Daniell |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1682 England |
| Died | 27 December 1754 (aged 71–72) Berkshire, Great Britain |
| Spouse | Elizabeth Staples |
| Children | John Craven Martha Craven and Jane Craven |
| Occupation | Administrator |
| Signature |  |
Charles Craven (born 1682, died 1754) was an important leader in the early days of the Carolina Colony. He served as the Governor of Carolina from 1711 to 1716.
Contents
Who Was Charles Craven?
Before becoming governor, Charles Craven worked as a secretary for the people who owned the Carolina Colony. In 1711, he was chosen to be the new governor. He arrived in Charleston in 1712 and led the colony until 1716, when he went back to England.
Key Events During His Time as Governor
Founding of Beaufort
In 1712, Governor Craven was asked to explore the Port Royal River. It's believed that during this time, he helped establish the town of Beaufort.
The Yamasee War
Around 1715, many Native American groups, led by the Yamasee people, united. Their goal was to push the colonists out of the area near the Ashley River.
Governor Craven quickly took action. He declared martial law, which meant the military took control. He also stopped all ships from leaving to make sure the colony had enough people and supplies.
He led about 1,200 men, including people of African descent, to fight the Native American forces. After several tough battles, Governor Craven's forces pushed them beyond the Savannah River. This war was a major challenge for the colony, and Craven's leadership was important in its outcome.
Solving a Leadership Dispute
In 1710, there was a disagreement in Charleston about who should be the acting governor. Two people claimed the job after the previous governor died. To solve this, they asked the colony's owners in England to decide.
The owners chose neither of the people arguing. Instead, they wisely appointed Charles Craven, who was the brother of one of the owners, as the new governor.
Leaving Office
Under Governor Craven's leadership, the colony grew stronger. New settlements were built, and the dangerous Native American alliance was broken. When he left for England in 1716, he appointed Robert Daniel to take his place temporarily. The next year, Robert Johnson became governor. He was the last governor to serve under the original owners of the colony.
Family Life
Charles Craven was married to Elizabeth Staples. They had three children named John, Martha, and Jane.
In Popular Culture
William Gilmore Simms wrote a novel in 1835 called The Yemassee. This book tells a fictional story about the Yamasee War, and Charles Craven is the main character in it.
