George Jones (Newfoundland politician) facts for kids

George Jones (born in 1867, died in June 1949) was an important person in Newfoundland. He was a skilled ship captain, a judge, and a politician. He represented the area of Twillingate in the Newfoundland House of Assembly (like a parliament) from 1919 to 1924.

Early Life and Sea Adventures

George Jones was born in a place called Little Bay Islands. His parents were Thomas Jones and Virtue Anstey. He grew up and went to school there.

When he was just 11 years old, in 1878, George started working in the fishing industry. He loved the sea! From 1886 to 1920, he became a captain of fishing boats and larger ships called schooners that sailed along the coast. For six years during this time, he also managed lobster packing plants.

Joining the Fishermen's Union

In 1913, George Jones joined a group called the Fishermen's Protective Union. This union worked to help fishermen and make sure they were treated fairly.

A Career in Politics

George Jones decided to get involved in government to help his community.

Becoming a Member of Assembly

In 1919, he was elected to the Newfoundland assembly. This meant he helped make laws and decisions for Newfoundland. He was re-elected in 1923, showing that people trusted him.

Political Changes and Decisions

Politics can be complicated! When Richard Squires, who was like the leader (Premier) of Newfoundland, stepped down, George Jones first supported the new government led by William Warren.

However, in April 1924, George Jones and another politician named Richard Cramm decided to change their support back to Richard Squires. After two more members also stopped supporting William Warren, his government lost the support of the assembly. This is called a "motion of no confidence," and it meant the government had to step down.

After this, George Jones decided not to run for re-election. He chose to go back to his life as a fisherman.

Family Life

In 1890, George Jones married Martha Wiseman. They had five children together.

Later Years and Retirement

In 1929, George Jones was appointed as a stipendiary magistrate for Green Bay. This meant he served as a judge, helping to settle legal matters in the area. He worked as a magistrate until he retired in 1935.

George Jones passed away in 1949 in his hometown of Little Bay Islands.