Colonel William Rhett, born in London in 1666,
arrived at Charles Towne in 1694.
In 1712 he built and lived at 54 Hasell Street,
thought to be Charleston's oldest dwelling.
A capable military man and sea Captain,
he was commissioned a Vice Admiral by the
governor of Carolina to command a naval defense
that repelled the Franco-Spanish invasion in 1706
and captured pirate Stede Bonnet in 1718.
Rhett rose in the miltiia to Lt. General in 1719.
Amoung numerous public positions in
Charles Towne, he was Commissioneer of
Fortications and of Indian Trade, built a
state house, governor's house,
Free School, seawall, and became
Speaker of Commons Home of Assembly.
Known for his charity, he served as warden and
treasurer of St. Philips Church, participated in its
1723 reconstruction, and donated the English
communion silver used in services there.
( Reverse text )
In hopes of a joyfull Resurrection
Here rests the body of
Col.William Rhett
Late of this Parish,
Principal Officer of his Majesties Customs
in this Province:
He was a person that on all occasions promoted
the Publick good of this Colony, and severall [sic]
times generously and successfully ventured his
Life in defense of the same
He was a kind Husband,
A tender Father,
A faithful Friend,
A charitable Neighbour,
A Religious constant worshipper of God.
He was born in London
4th Sept. 1666,
Arrived and settled this Country
19th Novembr. 1694.And dyed suddenly but not unprepared
12th Janry. 1722,
In the fifty - seventh year of his age.
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