William Hooke (governor) facts for kids

William Hooke (born in 1612, died in 1652) was an important leader in early North America. He served as the governor of a place called New Somersetshire. This area is now part of the state of Maine in the United States. Sir Ferdinando Gorges chose him for this job.

Hooke was born in Bristol, a city in England. He was the second son of Humphrey Hooke. In 1633, William Hooke traveled across the ocean to live in New England. After his time as governor, he went back to Bristol.

Who Was William Hooke?

William Hooke was born in 1612. His family lived in Bristol, England. His father was Humphrey Hooke. Not much is known about William's early life. But we do know he decided to move to the New World.

Life in New England

In 1633, William Hooke sailed to North America. He settled in a region known as New England. This area was a new home for many English settlers. They were building new towns and colonies there.

Governor of New Somersetshire

William Hooke became the governor of New Somersetshire. A governor is like a leader or manager of a territory. They help make rules and keep things organized. New Somersetshire was an early name for a part of North America. It was a large area that Sir Ferdinando Gorges owned. Gorges was an English explorer and colonizer. He wanted to set up new settlements in North America. Hooke helped him manage this new land.

Returning to England

William Hooke worked as governor for some time. After his time leading New Somersetshire, he decided to return home. He sailed back to Bristol, England, where he had been born. William Hooke passed away in 1652.