Samuel Penhallow facts for kids
Samuel Penhallow (born July 2, 1665 – died December 2, 1726) was an important person in early American history. He was born in Cornwall, England, and later moved to the American colonies. He became a leader in the military and a historian, writing about the conflicts of his time. He lived in what is now Maine and was involved in wars like Queen Anne's War and Father Rale's War.
Life of Samuel Penhallow
Samuel Penhallow was born in a place called St Mabyn in Cornwall, England. When he was a teenager, from 1683 to 1686, he went to a school near London. His teacher, Charles Morton, was a minister who disagreed with some of the official church rules. In 1686, Samuel and his teacher moved together to Massachusetts in America.
At first, Samuel was asked to learn Native American languages and teach people. But he soon found other important work. He moved to Portsmouth, which is in New Hampshire. There, he married Mary Cutt. Her father, John Cutt, was a very successful businessman and had been the president of the Province of New Hampshire (an early government area). Through this marriage, Samuel gained a lot of land and property in Portsmouth.
Samuel became a very active leader in the government of New Hampshire. In 1700, he was chosen as the speaker for the Assembly, which was like a local parliament. In 1702, he joined the Provincial Council, a group of important advisors. He faced some challenges, but he was supported by the governor, Samuel Shute.
Samuel Penhallow also became a judge. In 1714, he was made a justice in the highest court. From 1717 until he passed away, he was the chief justice of that court. He also managed the money for the province as its treasurer from 1699 to 1726. And he served as the secretary of the province from 1714 to 1726, handling important documents and records. Samuel Penhallow died in Portsmouth on December 2, 1726.
Samuel Penhallow's Writings
Samuel Penhallow was not just a leader; he was also a historian. He wrote about the wars that happened during his time. His most famous work is about the conflicts with Native American tribes, often called "Indian Wars."
- Penhallow's Indian Wars; A Facsimile Reprint of the First Edition, Printed in Boston in 1726
