Richard Ingoldesby facts for kids

Richard Ingoldesby (who died on March 1, 1719) was a British army officer. He also served as a lieutenant governor for the colonies of New Jersey and New York. From May 1709 to April 1710, he was the acting governor for both colonies.

Richard Ingoldesby's Life

Early Military Career

Ingoldesby was an officer who served Prince William of Orange. This was during a time called the Glorious Revolution. He helped in a military campaign in Ireland. There, he took part in the siege of a stronghold at Carrickfergus.

In September 1690, Ingoldesby became a captain. His company was sent to New York to help restore royal rule. This happened after a period of unrest known as Leisler's Rebellion.

Taking Charge in New York

Ingoldesby's job was to remove Jacob Leisler from his position. Leisler had taken over as lieutenant governor of New York. Ingoldesby forced Leisler to give up control of New York City.

After a small fight in March 1691, Leisler was put on trial. He was found guilty and executed in May. This event caused some anger among Leisler's supporters.

Becoming Governor

The New York Council chose Ingoldesby to lead the colony. This was after Governor Henry Sloughter died. Ingoldesby served as governor from the summer of 1691 until August 1692. Then, Benjamin Fletcher was appointed as the new governor.

During this time, a conflict known as King William's War was happening. Ingoldesby signed a peace and friendship agreement with the Iroquois people on June 6, 1692.

Role as Lieutenant Governor

Later, Ingoldesby became the lieutenant governor of New Jersey. This happened when Edward Hyde, Lord Cornbury became governor. However, Governor Cornbury did not give Ingoldesby much power. Instead, Ingoldesby became a member of the New Jersey Provincial Council.

Acting Governor of Two Colonies

After John Lovelace died on May 6, 1709, Ingoldesby became the acting governor. He took charge of both New Jersey and New York. However, some powerful landowners did not trust his leadership.

During his time as acting governor, Ingoldesby faced challenges. There was a plan to invade Canada, called the "Glorious Enterprise." Ingoldesby asked the New Jersey Assembly to provide 200 men for this effort. Many members of the Assembly, especially the Quakers, did not like this idea.

Ingoldesby tried to prevent Quakers from holding public office. He ordered that they should be excluded from these positions. Eventually, he was convinced to raise the men needed for the invasion. However, the British forces did not provide enough support, and the mission failed.

Ingoldesby realized he would not become the official governor of New Jersey. He tried to redirect money meant for the previous governor to himself. His authority as acting governor was officially removed in October 1709. However, he did not receive this news until April 1710. He passed away in New York on March 1, 1719.