Hugh Bonfoy (c. 1720 – 12 March 1762) was a naval officer and colonial governor of Newfoundland.
Hugh Bonfoy | |
|---|---|
| Born | c. 1720 |
| Died | 12 March 1762 (aged 41–42) |
| Allegiance |  Kingdom of Great Britain |
| Service/ |  Royal Navy |
| Rank | Commodore |
| Commands held | HMS Augusta HMS Berwick |
Bonfoy entered the Royal Navy in 1739 and was promoted to lieutenant in 1744 and to captain in 1745. He was captain of the fourth-rate HMS Augusta and then of the third-rate HMS Berwick.[1] He became governor of Newfoundland in 1753.[1] The common perception on the island was the uncertainty about the loyalty of Irish Roman Catholics in Newfoundland. Bonfoy did not allow Irish Catholics to worship stating that:
"Liberty of Conscience is allowed to all Persons except Papists."[1]