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Thomas Tench
9th Royal Governor of Maryland
In office
1702–1704
Monarch
Preceded by Nathaniel Blakiston
Succeeded by John Seymour
Personal details
Born c. 1650s (2025-06-27UTC22:50)
England
Died 1708 (1709)
Resting place St. James' Parish
Spouses
  • Margaret Burrage (d. 1694)
  • Margaret
Profession

Thomas Tench lived a long time ago, from around the 1650s to 1708. He was an important leader in the American colonies. He served as the 9th Royal Governor of Maryland between 1702 and 1704. He took over from Nathaniel Blakiston and was followed by Colonel John Seymour.

Thomas Tench's Early Life

Thomas Tench was born in England sometime in the 1650s. When he was older, around 1684, he moved across the ocean to America. He settled in a place called Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

Family Life of Thomas Tench

Thomas Tench got married to Margaret Burrage around 1684 or 1685. Margaret already had three children from a previous marriage. Sadly, Margaret passed away in 1694. Later, by 1704, Thomas married another woman also named Margaret.

Thomas Tench's Career in Maryland

Thomas Tench was a merchant, which means he bought and sold goods. Between 1675 and 1684, he helped transport people from London, England, to Maryland. These people were often servants who worked for a period of time to pay for their trip.

Early Government Roles

In 1694, one of Tench's ships was seized. This happened because it broke the Navigation Acts, which were rules about trade set by England. From 1685 to 1692, Tench worked as a justice in Anne Arundel County. A justice is like a judge who helps make sure laws are followed. He also served as the coroner for Anne Arundel County from 1689 to 1692. A coroner investigates deaths.

Serving in the Maryland Government

Thomas Tench was a member of the upper house in Maryland for many years. This is similar to being a senator today. He served during these periods:

  • 1692–1693
  • 1694–1697
  • 1697/1698–1700
  • 1701–1704
  • 1704–1707

In 1702, Thomas Tench became the 9th Royal Governor of Maryland. This was a very important job, as he was in charge of the entire colony. He also served as a vestryman at Christ Church in Philadelphia. A vestryman is a member of a church board.

The Death of Thomas Tench

Thomas Tench passed away in 1708. He was buried at St. James' Parish in Anne Arundel County.

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