Jesse Wharton (Maryland governor) facts for kids

Jesse Wharton (died 1676) was a key leader in the Maryland colony during a short time in 1676. He served as the 7th Proprietary Governor of Maryland. A "Proprietary Governor" was like a manager chosen by the person who owned the colony, in this case, Charles Calvert, 3rd Baron Baltimore. After Wharton's death, another governor, Thomas Notley, took over.

Early Life and Arrival in Maryland

Jesse Wharton came to Maryland in 1670 from the English colony of Barbados. He quickly became very successful in his new home. He was a successful planter, meaning he owned and managed large farms. He also became an important politician.

Growing Influence and Family

In just six years, Jesse Wharton gained a lot of land and held several important political jobs. He married Elizabeth Sewall, whose father, Henry Sewall, was also a well-known person in Maryland politics.

Serving as Deputy Governor

In 1672, Wharton joined the Governor's Council. This council was a group of advisors who helped run the colony. By 1676, he became the Deputy Governor. This meant he was in charge of the colony, even though the official governor was Cecil Calvert, who was just a baby and the son of the colony's owner. So, Jesse Wharton and the Governor's Council really led Maryland during this time. The Maryland State Archives lists him as a colonial governor because of his leadership role.

Challenges Facing the Colony

Wharton's time as a leader was difficult. The colony faced dangers from both inside and outside its borders. Settlers on the western side of Maryland worried about attacks from Native American groups. Earlier that year, the colony had even given weapons to some friendly tribes to help prepare for possible conflicts.

Bacon's Rebellion in Virginia

Nearby, in the colony of Virginia, a major uprising called Bacon's Rebellion was happening. This rebellion threatened to completely overturn the government there. These two big problems became very serious in July 1676. The rebellion in Virginia succeeded in overthrowing its government, and Maryland settlers were told to get ready for a possible Native American attack.

Wharton's Short Term and Legacy

In the middle of these serious challenges, Jesse Wharton died. He had only been leading the colony for a little over a month. He served as governor from June 16, 1676, until his death in July of the same year. Before he died, Charles Calvert had named Thomas Notley as his successor. Jesse Wharton left behind his wife, Elizabeth, and a son, Henry Wharton. Elizabeth later remarried William Digges.