Thomas Westbrook Waldron (consul)

Thomas Westbrook Waldron (1721-1785) was a prominent merchant and public official in colonial New Hampshire, known primarily for his service as the British consul at the port of Lisbon, Portugal.

Born in Dover, New Hampshire, Waldron was the son of Richard Waldron III, a leading political figure and wealthy landowner. He inherited considerable property and built upon the family's commercial interests. His early career focused on mercantile activities, trading goods between New England and Europe, particularly Madeira and Lisbon.

His appointment as consul to Lisbon, a strategically important trading hub, solidified his influence within the British mercantile system. As consul, he represented British interests, facilitated trade for British merchants, and acted as a liaison between the British government and Portuguese authorities. His duties included resolving disputes, protecting British sailors and property, and reporting on trade conditions.

Waldron’s position allowed him to amass significant wealth and influence. He returned to New Hampshire in 1775, on the eve of the American Revolution. Despite his past association with the British Crown, he remained in New Hampshire and appears to have navigated the complexities of the revolutionary period without major incident. He died in 1785.