David Kirke
Sir David Kirke | |
|---|---|
An illustration of Kirke (left) accepting the surrender of Samuel Champlain (centre) on 20 July 1629 | |
| 1st Governor of Newfoundland | |
| In office 1638–1651 | |
| Preceded by | William Hill |
| Succeeded by | John Treworgie |
| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 1597 |
| Died | c. 1654 |
Sir David Kirke (c. 1597 – c. 1654) was an English privateer and colonial administrator who served as the Governor of Newfoundland from 1638 to 1651. He is best known for capturing Québec from the French in 1629 during the Anglo-French War. A favourite of Charles I of England, Kirke's downfall came in 1651 when he was arrested after being accused of withholding taxes collected on behalf of the English government. Kirke was sent back to England, where he reportedly died in prison.