Lord Neill Campbell facts for kids

Lord Neill Campbell (born around 1630 – died April 1692) was a Scottish nobleman. He played an important role in the early history of East New Jersey, serving as its Deputy Governor in 1686. He took over from Gawen Lawrie during his time in the American colonies.

Early Life and Family

Neill Campbell was a younger son of the 1st Marquess of Argyll. His mother was Lady Margaret Douglas. His older brother was Archibald Campbell, 9th Earl of Argyll.

In 1668, Lord Neill Campbell married Lady Vere Kerr. She was the third daughter of the 1st Earl of Lothian. They had five children together: Charles, Archibald, Mary, Anna, and Jean. Lady Vere passed away in 1674.

Later, in 1685, he married Susan Menzies. She was the daughter of Sir Alexander Menzies of Weem. With Susan, he had four more children: Neil, Alexander, Christian, and Susan.

Political Challenges in Scotland

Lord Neill Campbell faced political difficulties in Scotland. In 1684, he was required to stay close to Edinburgh. His brother, the Earl of Argyll, faced serious consequences for his part in a political uprising in 1685. Because of these events, Lord Neill Campbell decided to travel to America.

His son, Archibald, was also sought by the authorities at this time. This made the move to the New World even more urgent for the Campbell family.

Moving to America

In August 1685, Lord Neill Campbell bought a share in East New Jersey. He also became an agent for other important people in America. This meant he could act on their behalf.

In the fall of 1685, Lord Neill Campbell sailed to America. He traveled with 53 other people, including his son Archibald. They arrived in Perth Amboy, which was the capital of East Jersey at the time.

Leading East New Jersey

The current Deputy Governor, Gawen Lawrie, was being investigated in 1686. The owners of East Jersey, called the Proprietors, were looking into his actions.

On June 4, 1686, Governor Robert Barclay officially named Lord Neill Campbell as the new Deputy Governor. This was in case Lawrie needed to be replaced. By September 1686, the decision was made to remove Lawrie from his position.

On October 5, Lord Neill Campbell presented his official papers to the East New Jersey Provincial Council. They confirmed his appointment. Since Governor Barclay never actually visited East New Jersey, Lord Neill Campbell became the main leader, or de facto governor, of the colony. Lawrie then became a member of the council.

Return to Scotland

Lord Campbell had important business back in Britain. So, on December 10, 1686, he chose Councillor Andrew Hamilton to take his place as Deputy Governor. The next day, Lawrie was the only council member who disagreed with this choice.

Lord Neill Campbell then returned to Scotland. He is not known to have come back to America. He passed away in April 1692.