Edwards, Richard (? - 1773)
Governor, 1746
The first of two governors by the same name, Richard Edwards' birthplace and date of birth are unknown. He was a captain in the British navy by 1740 (the same year the other Richard Edwards became a lieutenant). Edwards was captain of several vessels during his naval career: the Fox, the Torrington, the Princess Mary, and the Princess Amelia.
He was appointed governor of Newfoundland in 1746, but before he left England, was ordered to Louisbourg to help Commodore Warren's siege of the fort. Four days after Edwards' arrival the siege was ended and he left for Newfoundland to begin his single term as governor.
After leaving Newfoundland, Edwards continued his service in the navy until his retirement in 1757. He died in England in June 1773.
