Thomas Smith (governor of South Carolina) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Thomas Smith
Thomas Smith's marker on East Bay Street
10th Governor of South Carolina
In office May 1693 – 16 November 1694
Monarch	William III
Preceded by	Philip Ludwell
Succeeded by	Joseph Blake (governor)
Personal details
Born	1648 Exeter, England
Died	16 November 1694 South Carolina
Spouses	Barbara Atkins Sabrina de Vignon

Thomas Smith (1648–1694) was an important leader in early South Carolina. He served as the governor of the colony from 1693 to 1694. Besides being a governor, he was also a farmer who owned a large farm (called a planter), a merchant who bought and sold goods, and even a surgeon.

Thomas Smith's Early Life

Thomas Smith was born in 1648 in Exeter, England. His parents were John Thomas Smith and Joan Atkins. His family had a history of public service; his grandfather, Sir Nicholas Smith, and great-grandfather, Sir George Smith, were both members of Parliament.

Moving to Charles Town

In 1684, Thomas Smith moved to Charles Town (which is now Charleston, South Carolina). He came with his first wife, Barbara Atkins, and their two sons, Thomas and George.

Becoming a Leader in Carolina

Thomas Smith quickly became an important person in the new colony. By 1690, he was given the title of a "Cacique." This was a special title given to early settlers who owned a lot of land.

Then, on May 13, 1691, the Lords Proprietors gave him an even higher title: "Landgrave." This title meant he was a very important landowner and leader in the colony.

Governor of South Carolina

In May 1693, Thomas Smith was chosen to be the 10th Governor of colonial South Carolina. He served in this important role until his death in November 1694.

Thomas Smith's Legacy

Governor Smith passed away in 1694. He was buried at Medway Plantation. His grave has a stone marker that says he was a "Landgrave of Carolina" and the "Governor of the Province of Carolina." It also notes he was 46 years old when he died.

Other leaders spoke highly of Governor Smith. Governor Archdale described him as "a wise, sober, and moderate well-living man." The Lords Proprietors, who were in charge of the colony, also praised him. They said he was a man of "great parts, integrity and honesty." They believed he had a generous and noble spirit, especially when it came to helping the public good. They felt his leadership brought peace and unity to the province.

Thomas Smith owned a brick house with a dock on the Cooper River in Charles Town. This house was located at the corner of East Bay and Longitude Lane.

His grandson, Reverend Josiah Smith, later became a well-known minister in colonial South Carolina.