Thomas Notley facts for kids

Thomas Notley (born in England around 1632 – died April 3, 1679) was an important leader in the early history of Maryland. He served as the 8th Governor of Maryland from 1676 until his death in 1679.

Notley first lived in Barbados before moving to Maryland in 1662. He quickly became involved in the colony's government. In 1666, he was chosen as the speaker for the legislature, which was like the colony's law-making body.

Land and Home

Thomas Notley was a successful landowner. In 1663, he bought a large piece of land, about 500 acres, from Thomas Gerrard. Later, he added even more land, about 1800 acres, from other areas. All these lands were combined into one big property called Cerne Abbas Manor. This is where Notley Hall was built. Today, this area is near Maddox, Maryland.

Becoming Governor

Notley was chosen to be governor by Charles Calvert, who was the Lord Proprietor of Maryland. The Lord Proprietor was like the owner of the colony. Notley took over the role from Jesse Wharton.

Charles Calvert arrived in Maryland in early 1678 or 1679. Even though Calvert was the Lord Proprietor, he allowed Notley to continue serving as governor until Notley passed away in April 1679. After Notley's death, Charles Calvert became governor himself.

Notley's Legacy

When Thomas Notley died, he owned a lot of land, more than 3750 acres. He also had many servants.

It is believed that Notley did not have any children of his own or get married. However, some records suggest he might have had a daughter who married a man named Benjamin Rozier. Notley Hall, his home, was left to Charles Calvert and Benjamin Rozier. It later became the property of the Rozier family.

Thomas Notley seemed to be a well-liked person. Many children were named "Notley" after him. In his will, which he wrote four years before he died, he mentioned several people named Notley, including Notley Maddox and Notley Rozier. This shows how much he was respected in the community.