William Freeborn (settler)

William Freeborn (c. 1594 – 1670) was an early English settler in colonial America, primarily associated with Rhode Island. He was a significant figure in the early history of Newport and Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and played a role in the religious and political developments of the colony.

Freeborn was originally from Maldon, Essex, England. He emigrated to New England sometime before 1634, initially settling in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Dissatisfied with the religious strictures of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, he, along with other followers of Anne Hutchinson and John Wheelwright, sought religious freedom elsewhere.

He was one of the original signers of the Portsmouth Compact in 1638, which established a new colony on Aquidneck Island (later Rhode Island). He was actively involved in the governance of Portsmouth, serving in various civic roles. When the settlement at Portsmouth divided in 1639, with some following William Coddington to establish Newport, Freeborn remained in Portsmouth. He later moved to Newport.

Freeborn held several prominent positions throughout his life in the colony. He was a commissioner, a member of the General Court of Trials, and served on various committees related to land distribution and other matters of governance. He was known to be a staunch supporter of religious tolerance, a defining characteristic of the Rhode Island colony.

William Freeborn married Mary Wilson. They had several children who also played roles in the subsequent development of Rhode Island. His descendants were active in Rhode Island affairs for many generations. He died in 1670 in Portsmouth, leaving behind a legacy as a key figure in the founding and development of a colony known for its commitment to religious liberty.