Cadwallader Colden

Scottish-American physician, natural scientist, and colonial governor

Cadwallader Colden

Cadwallader Colden (February 7, 1688 – September 28, 1776) was a prominent Scottish-American physician, natural scientist, and colonial governor of New York. He was a key figure in the intellectual and political life of colonial America, known for his contributions to botany, medicine, and politics.

Early Life and Education

Cadwallader Colden was born in Duns, Berwickshire, Scotland, to the Reverend Alexander Colden and Janet Hughes. He was educated at the University of Edinburgh, where he studied medicine and the natural sciences. Colden's education in Scotland laid the foundation for his later work in America, where he would become a leading intellectual figure.

Career in Medicine and Science

After completing his studies, Colden emigrated to Philadelphia in 1718, where he practiced medicine. He quickly became involved in the scientific community, corresponding with leading scientists of the day, including Benjamin Franklin and Carolus Linnaeus. Colden's work in botany was particularly influential; he conducted extensive studies of the flora of New York and was one of the first to describe many North American plant species.

Cadwallader Colden by Matthew Pratt, 1772

Political Career

In 1720, Colden moved to New York City, where he was appointed as the Surveyor General of the Province of New York. His political career advanced rapidly, and he served as the Lieutenant Governor of New York from 1761 to 1775. During his tenure, Colden was involved in several significant events, including the Stamp Act Crisis of 1765. His support for the British Crown during this period made him a controversial figure among the colonists.

Contributions to Botany

Colden's contributions to botany were significant. He maintained a large garden at his estate in Flushing, Queens, where he cultivated and studied a wide variety of plants. Colden's "Flora of New York" was one of the first comprehensive studies of the region's plant life. He also corresponded with Linnaeus, contributing to the development of the binomial nomenclature system.

Family and Personal Life

Cadwallader Colden married Alice Chrystie in 1715, and the couple had ten children. His family was deeply involved in the social and political life of New York. Colden's daughter, Jane Colden, became the first female botanist in America, continuing her father's legacy in the field of natural science.

Cadwallader Colden and His Grandson Warren De Lancey by Matthew Pratt

Legacy

Cadwallader Colden's legacy is multifaceted. As a scientist, he made lasting contributions to the study of North American flora. As a politician, his actions during the pre-Revolutionary period were influential, though controversial. Colden's writings, including his "History of the Five Indian Nations," remain important historical documents that provide insight into the early colonial period.

Related Pages

• Jane Colden
• History of New York (state)
• Stamp Act 1765