Richard Hutson facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Richard Hutson
8th Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina
In office January 31, 1782 – February 4, 1783
Governor	John Matthews
Preceded by	Christopher Gadsden
Succeeded by	Richard Beresford
1st Mayor of Charleston
In office 1783–1785
Preceded by	Office Established
Succeeded by	Arnoldus Vanderhorst
Personal details
Born	July 9, 1748 Charleston, South Carolina, British America
Died	April 12, 1795

Richard Hutson (1747 – April 12, 1795) was an important American leader from Charleston, South Carolina. He was a lawyer, a judge, and a politician. Many people consider him a Founding Father because of his role in creating the United States.

Richard Hutson's Early Life and Education

Richard Hutson was born in June 1747. His parents were Rev. William Hutson and Mary Hutson. When Richard was about nine years old, in 1756, his family moved to Charleston. His father became the pastor at the Circular Congregational Church there.

Richard received his early education in Charleston. After that, he went to Princeton, which was a very respected college even back then.

Serving the New Nation

In 1778 and 1779, Richard Hutson was chosen to represent South Carolina in the Continental Congress. This was a very important meeting of leaders from the American colonies. It was during this time that the colonies were deciding to become independent from Great Britain.

While at the Continental Congress, Richard Hutson signed the Articles of Confederation. This was the first agreement that united the 13 original American states. It was like an early constitution for the new country.

Captured During the War

The American Revolutionary War was a difficult time. In 1780, British forces captured Charleston. Richard Hutson was taken prisoner during this time. He was held in St. Augustine, Florida, for a while. Eventually, he was able to return home.

Leading South Carolina

After he returned from being a prisoner, Richard Hutson continued to serve his state. From 1782 to 1783, he was the eighth Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina. He served under Governor John Mathews. The Lieutenant Governor is like a second-in-command to the Governor.

Charleston's First Mayor

Richard Hutson made history in Charleston. On September 11, 1783, he was elected the first "intendant" of Charleston. An intendant was the title for the mayor of the city back then. He was re-elected for a second term on September 13, 1784.

After his time as mayor, he became one of the first three "chancellors" of the Court of Equity of South Carolina. A chancellor is a type of judge who deals with special legal cases.

Later Years and Legacy

Richard Hutson passed away on April 12, 1795. He is buried in a special vault at the Independent Congregational (Circular) Churchyard in Charleston. His life showed a strong dedication to public service and helping to build the new United States.