Dale, Sir Thomas

Dale, Sir Thomas, d.1619, acting governor (May–Aug., 1611, 1614–16) of the Virginia colony. Sent by the London Company to restore order, he arrived (1611) in Virginia with three ships of settlers and governed until another fleet under Sir Thomas Gates arrived four months later. When Governor Gates departed (1614) Dale again ruled. Although Dale's administration was severe, famines, epidemics, insubordination, and Indian attacks were overcome; private holdings were instituted; cultivation of tobacco was begun; and the colony was settled in a more favorable location at Henrico. Upon his return to England, Dale received command of a fleet bound for India, fought the Dutch en route, and died soon after arrival.