William Johnston (1697–1778): From Annandale to the American Colonies

William Johnston, born on December 19, 1697, in Annandale, Dumfries-shire, Scotland, was a man who bridged continents and cultures. The son of William Johnston, Marquess of Annandale, and Lady Sophia Fairholm, William carried the legacy of his noble lineage to the American colonies, leaving an enduring mark on history.

In 1722, William immigrated to Virginia, embarking on a new chapter in the colonies. By 1736, he had become a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses, serving until 1740. His participation in this legislative assembly reflected his commitment to civic leadership in the burgeoning American society.

William married Ann Mary Chew, daughter of Burgess Larkin Chew and Hannah Roy, on October 12, 1723, in Spotsylvania County, Virginia. Ann Mary’s untimely death in 1742 left William a widower, but he continued to build a family and forge connections in the community.

Subsequently, William married Elizabeth Wyatt around 1749. His marriages and family ties were instrumental in fostering relationships that would shape his life and legacy in the colonies.

William Johnston passed away in 1778 in Port Royal, Caroline County, Virginia, at the age of 81. His journey from Scotland to America embodies the resilience and adaptability of those who sought to make a lasting impact across distant lands. His service in the House of Burgesses and his contributions to colonial society cemented his place in the history of early America.