Governor John Hoskins Stone

JOHN HOSKINS STONE was born in Charles County, Maryland around 1750, probably at “Poynton Manor” in Charles County, Maryland. His education was attained in the private schools of his native state. He studied law, and then established a successful legal career in Charles County and in Annapolis. During the Revolutionary War, he served as captain in General Smallwood’s 1 st Maryland Regiment. Stone also fought heroically in many battles, and was severely wounded in the battle of Germantown. He had achieved the rank of colonel when he resigned in 1779. He entered into politics in 1779, serving as a member of Governor Lee’s Executive Council, a position he held from 1779 to 1792. He also served as a clerk in the Secretary of Foreign Affairs Office in 1785, and was a member of the Maryland House of Delegates from 1785 to 1787. In 1794, the Maryland Legislature elected Stone governor. He was reelected to a second term in 1795, and to a third term in 1796. During his tenure, the state loaned the national government the necessary resources to initiate construction on new public buildings in Washington, D.C. Stone also actively endorsed President Washington’s policies, and an annual governor’s message to the legislature was initiated. After completing his term, Stone left office on November 17, 1797 and retired from public service. Governor John Hoskins Stone passed away on October 5, 1804 in Annapolis, Maryland.