Thomas(ine) Hall: Gender Non-conforming in Colonial Virginia

Thomasine, born in England, joined the army disguised as a man in 1624. After returning to England, they moved to Virginia in 1627, again dressing as a man for safety. In Virginia, Thomasine worked as an indentured servant. Their gender identity became a topic of debate, leading to multiple examinations and a court case. In 1629, Governor Potts ruled Thomasine as both male and female, requiring them to wear mixed-gender clothing. This case highlights the gender norms of colonial Virginia.

Why did Thomasine choose to dress and act as a man during their journey to the Virginia Colony?

• To avoid paying travel taxes

• To ensure safety and economic advantage

• To join a secret society

• To escape from England

What was the primary reason for the community's interest in Thomasine's gender?

• The impact on the value of their indentured contract

• Thomasine's ability to perform labor

• Thomasine's unique fashion sense

• Thomasine's relationship with John Tayos

Who was the Virginia planter that owned Thomasine's contract?

• John Atkins

• Governor Potts

• John Tayos

• Thomasine's brother

What was the outcome of the court ruling regarding Thomasine's gender?

• Thomasine was declared both male and female

• Thomasine was declared a woman

• Thomasine was declared a man

• Thomasine's gender was left undecided

What did the court ruling require Thomasine to do after being declared both male and female?

• Leave the Virginia Colony

• Wear clothing from both sexes

• Work only in male-dominated jobs

• Pay a fine for deception