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North Carolina's Governors
Thomas Burke (ca. 1744-1783), skilled in the literary as well as political arts, was taken prisoner by Loyalists shortly after taking office as governor. Born in County Galway, Ireland, Burke emigrated to Virginia and took up residence in Norfolk. It was while in Virginia that he began to write poetry. In 1772 Burke removed to Hillsborough where he represented Orange County in the Provincial Congresses and was an advocate for independence. He also earned a reputation for brashness and irascibility. In 1781 Burke was chosen by the Assembly to serve as North Carolina's third governor. The state was on the brink of anarchy with roving bands of Loyalist and Patriot guerrillas, subject to no civil or military authority. Government on all levels had almost completely broken down. Burke resolved to bring order out of chaos, taking extraordinary measures to reform the militia, increase revenues, banish Loyalists, and defend against British attack. Acting on his own authority, he established special courts and assumed for himself veto power over legislative acts. Burke's frantic efforts came to an end at Hillsborough when he, along with other state officials, was taken prisoner by the Loyalist leader David Fanning. Transported south to Charlestown, Burke was released on parole to James Island after two months. He escaped from his confinement and returned to the governorship, violating his parole and code of honor in the eyes of many. When Burke convened the General Assembly in April 1782, his offer to retire was accepted almost without remark. Having served only ten months as governor, two of those as a prisoner, he returned to Hillsborough a disillusioned man. He died less than two years later, on December 2, 1783, and was buried on the grounds of his plantation.
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