Simon Bradstreet

Simon Bradstreet (baptized March 18, 1603/4 – March 27, 1697) was a colonial magistrate, businessman, diplomat, and the last governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Arriving in Massachusetts on the Winthrop Fleet in 1630, Bradstreet was almost constantly involved in the politics of the colony but became its governor only in 1679. He served on diplomatic missions and as agent to the crown in London, and also served as a commissioner to the New England Confederation. He was politically comparatively moderate, arguing minority positions in favor of freedom of speech and for accommodation of the demands of King Charles II following his restoration to the throne.

Bradstreet was married to Anne, the daughter of Massachusetts co-founder Thomas Dudley and New England's first published poet. He was a businessman, investing in land and shipping interests. Due to his advanced age (he died at 93) Cotton Mather referred to him as the "Nestor of New England". His descendants include the famous jurists Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. and David Souter.

Read more about Simon Bradstreet:  Early Life, Massachusetts Bay Colony, Governor, Dominion, and Temporary Return As Governor, Family and Legacy

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    Improvisation is too good to leave to chance.
    —Paul Simon (b. 1941)

    These o protect from step Dames injury.
    And if chance to thine eyes shall bring this verse,
    With some sad sighs honour my absent Herse;
    And kiss this paper for thy loves dear sake,
    Who with salt tears this last Farewel did take.
    —Anne Bradstreet (c. 1612–1672)