Thomas King

Thomas King (21 November 1821 – 28 April 1893) was a 19th-century New Zealand politician. He served in the 1st and 2nd Parliaments, and was otherwise active in New Plymouth. He was one of the first settlers, coming out on the first ship to New Plymouth in 1841.

Early life

King was born in London on 21 November 1821. He received his education at the City of London School and then at Oxford University.

He came to New Zealand in March 1841 on the William Bryan.

Political career

King was a member of the Taranaki Provincial Council, serving as provincial treasurer. The by-election resulted from the resignation of Charles Brown, whose militia service required his full attention. King was the only candidate in the by-election, and was thus declared elected.

William Cutfield King and Thomas King (no relation) contested the Grey and Bell electorate in the 1860 election. On nomination day, the contestants addressed the electors and at the end of the meeting, the Returning Officer requested a show of hands, which was declared to be in favour of Thomas King. Consequently, W. C. King requested an election, which was held on Tuesday, 27 November 1860. W. C. King and T. King received 93 and 34 votes, respectively. Thus, his namesake was elected, but didn't attend Parliament, since he was killed in the First Taranaki War in February 1861 before the first session had started.

Professional life

Upon arrival in New Zealand, King was originally a farmer and later became the manager of the Bank of New Zealand in New Plymouth for 16 years, from 1861 to 1878. He was the chairman of the New Plymouth Gas Company from its inception until his death.

Death King died at 4 am on 28 April 1893 at his residence in Dawson Street, New Plymouth. He was buried at Te Henui Cemetery.

He was survived by four sons, one daughter, and his wife. One of his sons, Truby King, was at the time of his death the Medical Superintendent of the Seacliff Lunatic Asylum. Truby's older brother Newton became a successful businessman in New Plymouth.