Thomas Barton (divine) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Barton
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| Born | c.1730 |
| Died | 25 May 1780 |
| Alma mater | |
| Occupation | Missionary, Minister  |
Thomas Barton (born around 1730, died 1780) was an important American religious leader. He was a minister in the Anglican Church.
Thomas Barton's Early Life
Thomas Barton was born in Ireland around 1730. His family had moved there from England during the time of King Charles I. After finishing his studies at Trinity College Dublin, he moved to America.
In 1751, when he was about 21, Barton opened a school. This school was in Norristown, Pennsylvania. For some time, he also worked as a tutor at an academy in Philadelphia. This academy is now a university.
In 1753, Barton married Esther Rittenhouse. Her father was a farmer nearby. Esther's brother was David Rittenhouse, a famous mathematician and astronomer. Thomas and David were very close friends throughout Thomas's life.
Becoming a Minister and Missionary
In 1754, Barton traveled to England. There, he became an ordained minister in the Anglican Church. He then returned to America as a missionary. He worked for the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel. This group helped spread the Anglican faith. He worked with them until 1759.
Barton also served as a chaplain, which is a minister for soldiers. He joined an army trip to Fort du Quesne, which is now Pittsburgh. This trip ended in defeat, and the army's leader, General Braddock, died.
Life in Lancaster and Later Years
After leaving York County, Pennsylvania, Barton settled in Lancaster. He became the rector, or head minister, of St. James's Church. He stayed there for almost 20 years. He spent his time doing his church duties. He also enjoyed studying natural history, which is the study of plants and animals.
In 1768, he was chosen to join the American Philosophical Society. This group was made up of important thinkers and scientists.
Later, Barton had to leave his job. He supported the British King during the American Revolution. Because of this, he moved to New York. He died there on May 25, 1780, at the age of 50. His wife, Esther, had passed away before him in 1774. One of their children was Benjamin Smith Barton. He became a well-known American doctor and naturalist.
