James Webb (Royal Navy officer)


James Webb was an officer of the Royal Navy, who served as colonial governor of Newfoundland. He was born in England, and died at Plymouth Sound.

Naval career

Webb joined in the Royal Navy in 1728. Promoted to commander, he was given command of in 1745 and, having been promoted further to captain, he was given command of in 1746. He became governor of Newfoundland in 1760 during the Seven Years' War. Because Webb had taken three captured Inuit to Chateau Bay, gave them gifts, and released them they in turn stimulated more regular commerce with the Labrador Inuit. Webb claimed Chateau Bay for Britain and renamed it York Harbour.