William Byrd II (1674-1744) - Find a Grave Memorial

Author, Diarist, Politician. Born at a home named Belvedere that was built by William Evelyn Byrd I at what was called "the Falls" on the James River in Henrico County. Best known today for his diaries, records that have offered modern readers an unparalleled glimpse into the private life of a Virginia gentleman. He was very active in the political life of Virginia. He served as a member of the House of Burgesses and the Council of Virginia and as the Virginia representative to the commission charged with establishing the border between Virginia and the Carolinas. Also known as the founder of the city of Richmond. Died while president of the Virginia Council of State.

Bio by: kimshockey (reb)

Inscription

Here lyeth the Honourable William Byrd Esq. being born to one of the amplest Fortunes in this Country he was sent early to England for his Education: where under the Care and direction of Sir Robert Southwell and even favored with his particular Instructions he made a happy Profiency in polite and various Learning. By means of the same noble Friend he was introduced to the acquaintance of many of the first persons of that Age for Knowledge, Wit, Virtue, Birth or High Station: and particularly contracted a most intimate and bosom Friendship with the learned and illustrious Charles Boyle, Earl of Orrey: He was called to the Bar in the Middle Temple, Studied for some time in the Low-Countries, Visited the Court of France, and was chosen Fellow of the Royal Society. Thus eminently fittd for the service and Ornament of his Country, he was made Receiver-General of his Majesty's Revenues here, was thrice appointed publick agent to the Court and Ministry of England, and being thirty seven Years a Member, at last became President of the Council of this Colony. To all this were added a great Elegancy of Taste and Life, the well-bred Gentleman and polite Companion, the splendid Oeconomit and prudent Father of a Family, with the constant Enemy of all exorbitant Power, and hearty Friend to the liberties of his Country. Nat. Mar. 28: 1674. Mort. Aug. 26: 1744. An. AEtat. 70.