James Webb (Royal Navy officer)

James Webb (died 14 May 1761) was an officer of the Royal Navy, who served as colonial governor of Newfoundland. He was born in England, and died at Plymouth Sound.

James Webb
Died14 May 1761
Allegiance Kingdom of Great Britain
Service/branch Royal Navy
RankCommodore
Commands heldHMS Jamaica
HMS Surprize

Webb joined in the Royal Navy in 1728.[1] Promoted to commander, he was given command of HMS Jamaica in 1745 and, having been promoted further to captain, he was given command of HMS Surprize in 1746.[2] He became governor of Newfoundland in 1760 during the Seven Years' War.[1] Because Webb had taken three captured Inuit to Chateau Bay, gave them gifts, and released them they in turn stimulated more regular commerce with the Labrador Inuit. Webb claimed Chateau Bay for Britain and renamed it York Harbour.[1]

See also

References
  1. Whiteley, William H. (1974). "Webb, James". In Halpenny, Francess G (ed.). Dictionary of Canadian Biography. III (1741–1770) (online ed.). University of Toronto Press.
  2. Winfield, p. 255

Sources
  • Winfield, Rif (2007). British Warships in the Age of Sail, 1714–1792: Design, Construction, Careers and Fates. London: Seaforth. ISBN 978-1-84415-700-6.
Political offices
Preceded by
Richard Edwards		 Governor of Newfoundland
1760–1760		 Succeeded by
Thomas Graves


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