John Anderson (New Jersey politician) facts for kids

John Anderson (born around 1665 – died March 28, 1736) was a Scottish colonel. He became the acting governor of New Jersey for a short time in 1736.

Early Life and Adventures

John Anderson was born in Fortrose, Scotland, around 1665. His father, James Anderson, was also from Fortrose and worked as a leader in the town. In 1675, John's family moved to Edinburgh and later settled in Glasgow.

The Darien Scheme Rescue

John Anderson became the captain of a ship called the Unicorn. He took over after the previous captain was captured. His most famous journey was rescuing people from the Darien scheme. This was a Scottish plan to start a colony in Central America in 1698.

On the way back, the Unicorn stopped in Jamaica for repairs and supplies. But after leaving the island, a big storm hit the ship. It barely made it to the port of Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Once the survivors were safe on land, the Unicorn was taken apart and later sank in the Arthur Kill waterway.

A Leader in New Jersey

Colonel Anderson lived in the Matawan, New Jersey area. He was a member of the New Jersey Provincial Council from 1713 until 1736. This council was like a group of advisors who helped govern the colony.

Becoming President of the Council

In 1713, when John Anderson first joined the council, some people tried to stop him. They said he was a Presbyterian, which they thought would make his appointment invalid. They also accused him of taking things from the Unicorn ship. However, both of these claims were proven false. He was actually a member of the Church of England.

The oldest member of the council who lived in New Jersey would become the President of the Council. John Anderson became president in 1735. He took over from Lewis Morris.

Serving as Acting Governor

On March 10, 1736, the governor, Sir William Cosby, passed away. Because John Anderson was the President of the Council, he became the acting governor of New Jersey. He served in this important role for eighteen days.

Sadly, John Anderson himself died on March 28, 1736. After his death, John Hamilton became the President of the Council and also the acting governor. He served until Lewis Morris officially became governor.

Family Life

John Anderson married Anna Reid on December 7, 1701. Her father, John Reid, was also from Scotland. The wedding took place in Tintern Manor, in Shrewsbury Township, New Jersey. The day after the wedding, John Reid gave land in Manalapan to his new son-in-law, Colonel Anderson.

John and Anna Reid Anderson had eight children:

• John (born around 1704)
• James (born July 7, 1708)
• Hellana
• Johnathan
• Margaret
• Anna
• Elizabeth
• Isabella