Dalby Thomas
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Dalby Thomas | |
|---|---|
| Born | c. 1650 |
| Died | c. 1711 (aged 60–61) |
| Occupations | Businessman and writer |
| Known for | Advocated free trade in African slavery and governor of Cape Coast Castle |
| Spouse | Lady Dorothy Thomas |
| Children | Susanna Thomas |
Dalby Thomas (c. 1650–1711) was an English businessman and writer.[1] Thomas was a commissioner of the glass duty, which administered taxes on bottles, dishes, and other glassware. Daniel Defoe became an accountant for Dalby Thomas in the fall of 1695, through 1699.[2] Dalby Thomas was knighted 1 August 1703 at Windsor Castle -- "of Essex and London, general, and chief director for the Royal Africa Company"[3]
Sir Dalby was governor (Agent-general) of Cape Coast Castle, 1703-1711,[4] the main British slave fort on the West African coast. He died in Africa, but his wife Lady Dorothy Thomas and daughter Susanna used family money to pay for a new vicarage at St Mary’s Church, Hampton and built a lavish tomb to Sir Dalby.[5]