John Evans (Pennsylvania governor) facts for kids

John Evans (born around 1678) was a colonial governor of Pennsylvania. He served in this important role from February 3, 1704, until February 1, 1709.

John Evans: Pennsylvania Governor

Early Life and Role

John Evans came from Wales. In February 1704, he became the deputy governor of Pennsylvania. He worked under William Penn, who was the owner of the colony. Evans was not a Quaker. Quakers were a religious group known for their peaceful beliefs. Evans was chosen because some people in the government did not agree with the Quakers' peace principles.

Challenges as Governor

During his time as governor, Evans often had disagreements with the colony's assembly, which was like a local government. He especially argued with David Lloyd, who was a leader of the people's party.

The "French Attack" Trick

Governor Evans wanted to help other colonies fight against the French and Native American groups. He asked for soldiers, which was new for Pennsylvania because Quakers believed in peace. But no one joined. So, Evans tried a trick. On the day of the yearly fair in Philadelphia, he arranged for a messenger to ride into the city. The messenger pretended to be scared and announced that the French had arrived in the Delaware River and were marching toward the city.

Evans then rode through the streets with his sword drawn, telling people to get ready to fight. For a short time, everyone was very excited and worried. People quickly hid their valuable items, and many even ran into the forests. However, the Quakers, whom Evans wanted to impress, calmly continued their weekly religious meeting. They did not fall for his trick.

River Taxes and Disputes

Evans also built a fort at Newcastle. He tried to illegally charge a tax to all ships traveling up the river. One of his tax collectors was even captured by a ship he was trying to tax. The collector was taken to the New Jersey side of the river. There, a furious Lord Cornbury, who had the right to control trade on the river, scolded him. After this, Governor Evans stopped trying to collect his river tax.

Life After Governorship

John Evans was a well-educated and refined person. However, his actions sometimes did not fit in with the peaceful Quaker city of Philadelphia. He was eventually called back from his position in February 1709. Colonel Charles Gookin then became the new governor.

On August 28, 1709, John Evans married Rebecca Moore in Philadelphia. After he was no longer governor, he stayed in Philadelphia for a while. Later, he moved back to Denbigh, Wales.