Richard Edwards | |
---|---|
Born | c. 1715 |
Died | February 3, 1795 Fordwich, Kent | (aged 79–80)
Allegiance | Great Britain |
Service/ | Royal Navy |
Rank | Admiral |
Commands held | Nore Command |
Admiral Richard Edwards ( c. 1715 – 3 February 1795) was a Royal Navy officer and colonial administrator who twice served as the governor of Newfoundland from 1757 to 1759 and 1779 to 1781. He also served as Commander-in-Chief, The Nore from 1788 to 1792.
Edwards was promoted to lieutenant in 1740 and to captain in 1753. [1] He was appointed governor of Newfoundland for his first term in 1757. [1] His main concern was defence of the colony as Great Britain and France were at war. [1] Edwards was re-appointed governor for a second term in 1779 and was again concerned with the colony's defences – only this time against American privateers. [1] In 1780 he formed the Newfoundland Volunteers under the command of Robert Pringle. [1] Edwards ordered the construction of Fort Townshend ( see Lord Townshend) and the Quidi Vidi batteries including those at Petty Harbour. [1] Promoted vice-admiral in 1787, he became in Commander-in-Chief, The Nore in 1788. [1] He was promoted to Admiral of the Blue in 1794. [1]