Edward Digges

Edward Digges (14 February 1620 – 15 March 1674/75) was an English barrister and colonist who became a premium tobacco planter and official in the Virginia colony.

He grew a sweet-scented tobacco variety which brought an unusually high price in London, and which he exported in casks marked "E.D.".

[10]Digges's efforts to create a silk industry in Virginia proved futile, despite him being awarded 100 pounds sterling as a reward.

After serving from 30 March 1655 until December 1656, Digges informed the House of Burgesses that he intended to sail for England on family business.

For his gubernatorial service Digges received a salary of 25,000 pounds of tobacco, paid from duties levied on vessels and marriage license fees.

A large tombstone marks his grave near his home at Bellfield Plantation, inscribed as follows: To the memory of Edward Digges Esq.

Sonne of Dudley Digges of Chilham in Kent Kn t & Bar t Master of the Rolls in the rain of K. Charles the First.

He departed this life 15th of March 1674 in the LIII d year of his age, one of his Mag ty Councill for this his colony of Virginia.

He had issue 6 sons and 7 daughters by the body of Elizabeth his wife who of her conjugal affection hath dedicated to him this Memorial.

[14]Digges' will left legacies "to all my children being four boys and four girls",[15] although only sons William, Dudley and Edward II, and a granddaughter would survive their mother.