George Popham facts for kids
George Popham (born 1550, died 1608) was an important English explorer. He helped start one of the first English settlements in North America. This settlement was in what is now the state of Maine. George Popham worked with Sir Ferdinando Gorges. Gorges was another English person who wanted to set up colonies.
George Popham's Early Life
George Popham was born in a place called Somerset, England. His father was Elijah Cameron Popham. Elijah's brother was Sir John Popham, a very important judge. This means Sir John was George's uncle.
Not much is known about George Popham's early years. He might have worked as a merchant, buying and selling goods. Family records show how George was related to Sir John Popham.
Journey to New England
Before his big trip, George Popham had an important job. He was the "Customer" of Bridgwater Port in Somerset. This meant he was the main officer who collected taxes on goods. He also kept records of everything coming in and out of the port.
In 1607, George Popham set sail from Plymouth, England. He led two ships and about 120 people. They landed in August at the mouth of the Kennebec River. This river is in what is now Maine.
George Popham was the captain of the ship called Gift of God. His other ship was the Mary and John. The two ships got separated during the journey. But they managed to find each other again along the coast.
They then looked for a good spot to build their new home. There, they built the first English settlement in New England. It was called the Popham Colony. They quickly built a storehouse to keep supplies. They also built a fort for protection, called St. Georges Fort.
Leading the Colony and Returning Home
The colonists chose George Popham to be the President of their new colony. This meant he was in charge of everyone. However, he sadly died the next year, in 1608.
The people living in the colony faced a very difficult winter. The weather was harsh and cold. Because of the tough conditions and Popham's death, the colonists felt discouraged. In the springtime, they decided to return to England.
