Thomas Adams (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Adams
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Thomas Adams, signatory to the Articles of Confederation
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| Born | c. 1730 |
| Died | August or October, 1788 |
| Citizenship | American |
| Occupation | politician, businessman |
| Known for | His sign on the Virginia Association and the Articles of Confederation |
| Spouse(s) | Elizabeth (Fauntleroy) Cocke |
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| Delegate from Virginia to the Continental Congress | |
| In office 1778–1780 |
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| Member of the Virginia State Senate | |
| In office 1784–1787 |
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Thomas Adams (born around 1730 – died August or October 1788) was an important politician and businessman from Virginia. He is known for being one of the people who helped create the United States. He was a representative for Virginia in the Continental Congress. He also signed a very important document called the Articles of Confederation.
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Who Was Thomas Adams?
Thomas Adams was born in New Kent County, Virginia, around the year 1730. His father, Ebenezer Adams, came from London, England. Ebenezer settled in Virginia before 1714. He received land grants in areas like Henrico and New Kent counties. Thomas Adams went to local schools in Virginia when he was young.
Thomas Adams's Early Career
Thomas Adams started his career in public service. From 1757 to 1761, he worked as a clerk for Henrico County. He was also a vestryman for the local church. After that, he became a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses. This was an important law-making group in Virginia. He also served as a church warden until 1762.
Business in England
Adams had many business dealings in England. Because of these interests, he lived in England for a long time. He stayed there from 1762 until about 1774. This means he was away from Virginia for over a decade.
Joining the American Revolution
In 1774, Thomas Adams returned to Virginia. This was just before the start of the American Revolution. He quickly became involved in the fight for independence. He was chosen to lead the Committee of Safety in New Kent County. These committees helped organize local support for the revolution.
Signing Important Documents
On May 27, 1774, Adams signed the Virginia Association. This was an agreement made by the House of Burgesses. It showed Virginia's support for the colonies working together. Later, in 1778 and 1779, Adams was chosen as a delegate from Virginia. He went to the Continental Congress. This was the main governing body for the new American states. While there, he signed the Articles of Confederation. This was the first constitution of the United States.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1780, Thomas Adams moved to Augusta County, Virginia. He continued his political career there. He was elected to the Virginia State Senate. He served in the Senate from 1784 to 1787.
Family and Passing
Thomas Adams married Elizabeth (Fauntleroy) Cocke. She was the widow of his cousin, Bowler Cocke. Adams passed away on his estate in Augusta County. His estate was called "Cowpasture." He died in August 1788. Some records say he might have died in October 1788.
