Charles Wimbledon Thomas facts for kids

Charles Wimbledon Thomas (born April 15, 1862 – died May 23, 1948) was a businessman and politician in Fiji. He was part of Fiji's government, serving in the Legislative Council, three different times between 1911 and 1923.

Life and Work

Early Life and Family

Charles Wimbledon Thomas was born in Clarence, Tasmania. His parents were William Isaac Thomas and Kezia Celia Thomas. Charles's father was a lawyer. He moved his family to Fiji to work in Levuka.

In 1874, Charles Thomas was there for an important event. This was the signing of the Deed of Cession. This agreement changed the Kingdom of Fiji into the Colony of Fiji, making it a British colony.

Starting a Business

Charles began his career as a clerk. Later, he moved to Yaqara. There, he managed a large farm owned by his father. His brother, Willie, joined him. Together, they opened butcher shops. These shops were in the towns of Ba and Lautoka.

Political Career

Charles Thomas decided to enter politics. He ran for a seat in the Legislative Council. This council was part of Fiji's government.

First Election Wins

In the 1911 election, he ran for the new Northern area. He won this election and became a member of the Legislative Council.

For the 1914 election, he ran in a different area called Western. He won again and kept his seat in the council.

Later Elections

In the 1917 election, Charles Thomas lost his seat. Reginald Harricks won instead.

However, Charles ran again in the Western area in 1920. This time, he won back his seat. He defeated John Percy Bayly, as Reginald Harricks did not run again.

In the 1923 election, Charles Thomas lost his seat once more. Percival William Faddy won this time.

Charles tried to win back his seat two more times. He ran in the 1926 and 1929 elections. He lost both times, first to Faddy and then to Bayly.

Death

Charles Wimbledon Thomas passed away on May 23, 1948. He was 86 years old. He died at the Lautoka Hospital in Lautoka, Fiji.