Date Died: 1816

Place Buried: Edenton, Chowan County

Occupation: Planter

Born in Scotland as the nephew of NC Royal Governor Gabriel Johnston, Samuel Johnston came to Onslow County at the age of three. He obtained his education in New England, served in the NC General Assembly, and as the NC Clerk of Superior Court. As a supporter of the colonial revolt, he served as president of one of the provincial congresses and actually was governor during the flight of Governor Martin and before the election of Governor Caswell.

Johnston was elected NC governor in 1787, during the decade following the American Revolution. After serving as governor, he served as in the United States Senate. When he returned to North Carolina, he was appointed to the State Superior Court and was known as one of the outstanding citizens of the state and a sound lawyer. His home, "Hayes," was in Chowan County and was a fine example of colonial architecture in North Carolina.

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