Matthew Rowan facts for kids

Matthew Rowan (died April 1760) was an important British official in the American colonies. He served as the acting governor of North Carolina from 1753 to 1754.

Who Was Matthew Rowan?

Matthew Rowan was born in County Antrim, Ireland. We don't know his exact birth date. His parents were Reverend John Rowan and Margaret Stewart. He had many brothers and sisters.

Early Life and Career

It's not clear when Matthew Rowan moved to North Carolina. However, records show he lived in Bath by 1726. There, he worked as a church warden. He was also a merchant and built ships in the colony.

Rowan became part of the local government. He joined the assembly in 1727. In 1731, he joined the executive council. He worked in this role until he died in 1760. In 1735, he helped survey the border between North and South Carolina. He was then named the surveyor-general for North Carolina. This meant he was in charge of land surveys.

Becoming Governor

In 1753, the governor, Nathaniel Rice, passed away. Matthew Rowan was then chosen to be the President of the Council. This made him the acting governor of North Carolina. He held this important job until 1754.

Personal Life and Legacy

Matthew Rowan married Elizabeth in 1742. She was the widow of his brother John. They did not have any children together. However, Rowan did have one son, John Rowan, with Jane Stubbs. He recognized John in his will.

Rowan mostly lived in the Lower Cape Fear area of North Carolina. This was near the community of Brunswick County. He died in April 1760 and was buried on his plantation there.

In 1753, a new area was created from the northern part of Anson County. This new area was named Rowan County in his honor.