William Pitkin facts for kids

William Pitkin (born April 30, 1694 – died October 1, 1769) was an important leader in the early American colonies. He served as a colonial governor for the Connecticut Colony. This means he was in charge of the Connecticut area before it became a state in the United States.

Early Life and Family

William Pitkin was born in 1694 in Hartford, which is now East Hartford. His family was well-known in politics.

On May 7, 1724, William married Mary Woodbridge. They had five children together: William, Timothy, George, Epraphas, and Ashebel. One of his sons, William IV, later became a member of the U.S. Congress.

William Pitkin's Public Service

William Pitkin started his career in public service in 1728. He was first elected to the colonial assembly, which was like a local government meeting. He served there until 1734. For the last two years, he was the speaker, meaning he led the meetings.

From 1734 to 1754, he was part of the Council of Assistants. This was another important group that helped govern the colony.

Military Roles

Pitkin also served in the colonial militia, which was like a local army.

• He was a Captain from 1730 to 1738.
• He became a Major from 1738 to 1739.
• Then he was a Colonel from 1739 to 1754.

In 1740, he helped gather troops from East Hartford. These soldiers went on an expedition to the Spanish West Indies during a conflict called the War of Jenkins' Ear.

Becoming a Judge and Governor

In 1735, Pitkin was elected as a county judge. Later, in 1741, he became a superior court judge. He held this important job until he was elected governor in 1766.

In 1754, he was also elected as the deputy governor. He served under Thomas Fitch. At the same time, he was the Chief Justice of the Connecticut Superior Court. This role was connected to being the deputy governor.

Leading the Colony

William Pitkin became governor in 1766. He served until 1769. Before him, Governor Thomas Fitch tried to put the Stamp Act into action. This law was very unpopular with the colonists.

Pitkin was against the Stamp Act. He also disagreed with other attempts by the British Parliament to tax the colonies. His opposition to these taxes likely helped him win the election against Fitch.

Death and Lasting Impact

William Pitkin passed away on October 1, 1769, while he was still serving as governor. He was buried in Center Cemetery in East Hartford.

Today, Governor William Pitkin Elementary School in his hometown is named after him. This helps remember his important work and leadership in Connecticut's history.