George Kendall (Jamestown council member) facts for kids

Captain George Kendall (around 1570 – December 1, 1608) was an important early leader in the Colony of Virginia. He was one of the first members of the council, a group of leaders, chosen for the new settlement of Jamestown. Kendall arrived with the first ships that founded Jamestown. He officially joined the council on May 13, 1607.

After the settlers landed at Jamestown Island, Kendall played a key role in building the first fort. He was still a council member in June 1607 when the first report about the colony was sent back to England. However, sometime between July and September 1607, he was removed from the council. He was also put in prison on a ship.

Trouble in Jamestown

In the autumn of 1607, a disagreement happened between a blacksmith named James Read and the council president, John Ratcliffe. The blacksmith was facing a serious punishment. To avoid this, he told President Ratcliffe about a secret plan.

The blacksmith claimed that Captain Kendall was involved in a plot. He said the plan was to make John Smith the new president. The blacksmith was forgiven for his actions because he shared this information. Captain Kendall, who was already a prisoner, was then brought before the council to answer these serious claims.

What Were the Charges?

There is still some debate about what Captain Kendall was truly accused of. Some believe he was accused of trying to overthrow the leaders. Others think he might have been secretly working for Spain, a rival country.

Kendall himself spoke strongly during his questioning. He said that no person or group could ever succeed by being unkind or by ignoring human rights and freedom. He believed he was defending the rights of all people, whether they were Native Americans or white settlers.

Kendall's Trial and Death

President Ratcliffe declared Kendall guilty. However, Kendall argued that the verdict was not valid. He said that Ratcliffe was using a false name. Kendall claimed that because Ratcliffe announced the punishment with his alias, not his real last name, the sentence should be canceled.

The council did not agree with Kendall's argument. Instead, Captain Martin announced Kendall's death sentence.

Captain George Kendall died on December 1, 1608. He was put to death by a firing squad. He is thought to be the first person to receive the death penalty in the British colonies of North America.