Endecott, John (1589–1665)

English-born American colonial administrator. From 1641 to 1644 he held successively the positions of deputy governor and governor of Massachusetts, serving as governor again 1649, 1651–53, and 1655–64.

Endecott was born in Chagford, Devon. He went to America 1628, and became manager of the plantation of Naumkeag (now Salem, Massachusetts). Two years later he was replaced by John Winthrop, and headed several expeditions against the American Indians.