![]() ![]() Thomas was left in Plymouth in England with Sir Lewis Stukley, and was later transferred into the care of his uncle, Henry Rolfe. Just as the family was preparing to re-embark on the George for Virginia (while still in Gravesend in Kent), Pocahontas died of a fever (possibly tuberculosis). She became something of a celebrity, was elegantly fêted, and attended a masque at Whitehall Palace. Pocahontas was presented to English society as an example of the civilized “savage” in hopes of stimulating investment in the Jamestown settlement. Thomas survived, but a year later in spring 1617 was stricken with a severe fever, as was his mother. He was a year old during this voyage, and (being half Native American) was not necessarily immune to the diseases and hardships of the voyage. Thomas Rolfe was born in Virginia and named after Governor Sir Thomas Dale, who accompanied Thomas Rolfe and his parents on their trip to England aboard the Treasurer in 1616. In April 1614, she married tobacco planter John Rolfe. When the opportunity arose for her to return to her people, she chose to remain with the English. During her captivity, she converted to Christianity and took the name Rebecca. 1595 – March 1617) was captured by the English during hostilities in 1613, and held for ransom. Pocahontas (born Matoaka, known as Amonute, and later known as Rebecca Rolfe, c. ![]() Thomas Rolfe (and his two marriages) made it possible for following generations, both in North America and in England, to trace descent from Pocahontas (including Nancy Reagan and astronomer Percival Lowell). His maternal grandfather was Wahunsunacock, paramount chief of the Powhatan confederacy in Virginia, and, therefore, also known simply as Powhatan. ![]() Today is the birthday (1615) of Thomas Pepsironemeh Rolfe, the only child of Pocahontas by her English husband, John Rolfe. ![]()
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