James Hasell facts for kids

James Hasell was an important British official who briefly served as the acting governor of North Carolina in 1771. He played a key role in the colony's government before the American Revolution.

Early Life and Public Service

James Hasell was a respected figure in the British colony of North Carolina. He held several important positions. In 1763, when Governor Arthur Dobbs was away in South Carolina, Hasell stepped in to manage the government. He was the most senior member of the Governor's Council at that time.

Hasell also worked as a judge. He served in the Court of Oyer and Terminer for several counties, including Craven, Carteret, Johnston, Beaufort, and Hyde. This court was responsible for hearing and deciding legal cases. Hasell lived on the lower Cape Fear River at a place called Belgrange.

In 1766, Governor William Tryon wrote to the British Board of Trade about Hasell. He said that Hasell was "much the gentleman" and had done a great job as chief justice for seven years. Governor Tryon also noted that Hasell was a strong supporter of the government's plans.

Acting Governor of North Carolina

After Governor Tryon left North Carolina to become the governor of New York, James Hasell took over as acting governor. This happened on July 1, 1771. He served in this role until Josiah Martin arrived. Martin would be the last British governor of North Carolina.

Governor Martin thought highly of Hasell. He suggested that Hasell should become the lieutenant governor. This idea came about because Martin believed the current lieutenant governor, George Mercer, might become governor of Ohio. However, Mercer stayed in England and kept his position in North Carolina.

During this same year, Hasell also helped to start a school. This school was known as the Queens Museum. Today, it is known as Queens University of Charlotte.

James Hasell was present for one of the final meetings of the North Carolina Council. This meeting took place on the HMS Cruizer ship on the Cape Fear River. Governor Josiah Martin was also there. During this meeting, Hasell stated that the governor should "take every lawful measure" to stop the "unnatural rebellion" that was starting. This was a reference to the growing unrest that would lead to the American Revolution.

Hasell's Legacy

James Hasell was known for his love of books. His personal library was thought to be lost for a long time. However, it was found in the early 1900s in an old house near Wilmington. People described it as "all that remains of North Carolina's oldest library." This collection included many first edition books. Many of them were signed by important people of that time.