Gorges, Ferdinando (c. 1566-1647)

English-born American colonist, founder of Maine.

Gorges was born in Somerset, and before the age of 21 was a prisoner of the Spaniards. In 1589 he fought for Henry IV of France. He became governor of Plymouth, and was a close friend of the 2nd Earl of Essex, whom he supported in his attempt to rebel. He continued in office as governor of Plymouth under James I, but later turned his attention to the colonies, and had an interest in many plantations. In 1639 he received a royal charter for Maine.