Thomas Lawrence (Governor of Maryland) facts for kids

Sir Thomas Lawrence (born around 1645, died 1714) was an important official in the early days of the Maryland colony. He served two times as the Royal Governor of Maryland. A Royal Governor was like a leader chosen by the King or Queen of England to manage a colony.

Thomas Lawrence first became governor in 1693. This happened after the previous governor, Sir Lionel Copley, passed away. Lawrence was chosen by the Governor's Council, a group of advisors. He only held this job for a few weeks. A new governor, Edmund Andros, soon arrived from England to take over.

Lawrence became governor again for a short time in 1694. This was when Edmund Andros left Maryland. After Lawrence's second time as governor, Francis Nicholson took his place.

Early Life and Family

Thomas Lawrence was born in 1645 in a place called Chelsea, in Middlesex, England. He was the oldest son of Sir John Lawrence, who was also a Baronet. A Baronet is a special title, like a knight, that can be passed down in a family. His mother was Mary Hempson.

In 1692, Thomas Lawrence traveled across the ocean to the Province of Maryland. He settled in areas that are now known as St. Mary's County and Annapolis. It is thought that his family stayed behind in England.

His Time as Governor

In 1693, Thomas Lawrence was the President of the Council in Maryland. This meant he was a very important leader. When Governor Copley died, Lawrence stepped in as the acting Royal Governor. He was in charge of the colony for just a few weeks.

Later, in 1694, he briefly served as governor again. He then returned to England around 1705 or 1706.

Later Life and Death

Sir Thomas Lawrence passed away on April 25, 1714, in London, England. When he died, his special family title of Baronet ended because he had no one to pass it on to.