Name

Colonel William Christian (Virginia)

Biography

Chairman of the committee that produced the Fincastle Resolutions in January 1775, rejecting Parliament's claim of 'unlimited power' over the colonies. Grandson of Robert Christian of Cedar Grove (Chief Magistrate of New Kent County, 'Washington's devoted friend'), descended from William and Jonathan Christian who emigrated from the Isle of Man in 1655. Patrick Henry's brother-in-law. Served in the Virginia Senate alongside Jefferson and Madison. Sat on the Committee of Safety. Killed in 1786 in Kentucky. In 1775, there were Christians governing on both sides of the Atlantic — William Christian, Esquire, in the House of Keys, and Colonel William Christian in Fincastle. The same refusal to accept that Parliament's word was final on a people's rights.

Active Period

1732–1786

Place

Fincastle, Virginia

Virginia

Kentucky

Family / Group

The Christian Family

Period

Crown Administration

Related To

Patrick Henry

Thomas Jefferson

Role / Office

Colonel

Virginia Senator

Committee Chairman

Book Chapter

Chapter 17