Jonathan Law facts for kids

Jonathan Law, a leader in colonial Connecticut.

Jonathan Law (born August 6, 1674 – died November 6, 1750) was an important leader in early America. He served as the 27th Governor of the Colony of Connecticut. He was governor from 1741 until his death in 1750.

Early Life and Education

Jonathan Law was born in Milford, Connecticut. This was a colony at the time. His parents were Jonathan and Sarah Law. He went to Harvard College. He studied law there. He graduated in 1695. People knew him as smart and kind. He was also very calm. He married five times during his life. He had many children, including seven sons.

Jonathan Law's Public Service

In 1698, Jonathan Law started his own law office. It was in Milford. He became a Justice of the Peace. This role helped keep order. He was also a judge for New Haven County. He later became an Assistant Judge. This was for the Connecticut Superior Court.

Law was elected to the Connecticut General Assembly. He served many terms there. This was from 1706 to 1717. He then became an "assistant." He held this job until 1724. In October 1724, he became Deputy Governor. In May 1725, he became Chief Judge of the Superior Court. He held both of these important jobs at the same time. This was allowed in the government back then.

By the time Law became governor, he was 67 years old. This was in October 1741. He had already worked in the colonial government for 35 years. He had a very large farm. He was one of the first people in Connecticut to plant mulberry trees. He also started raising silk worms. He really believed in the silk industry. To show his support, he wore a coat and stockings made of Connecticut silk. He wore them at a public event in 1747.

Death and Legacy

Jonathan Law died while he was still governor. This happened on November 6, 1750. He passed away in Milford, Connecticut. He is buried at Milford Cemetery. Jonathan Law High School in Milford, Connecticut, was named to honor him.