Murderous 17th century pirate linked to iconic New York figure
A historian says that colonial-era documents suggest the "King of the Pirates" and his violent crew got an assist from Thomas Jones, the namesake of Jones Beach
By CBS News·Nov 2, 2026
Summary
A new historical examination of 17th-century colonial New York records suggests a direct link between Thomas Jones, a notable figure after whom the famous Long Island Jones Beach is named, and the notorious pirate William Kidd. Researchers argue that evidence points to Jones providing logistical support and supplies to Kidd and his crew, effectively serving as an early colonial collaborator in maritime illicit activity.
The findings challenge the historical perception of colonial elites, suggesting that the foundations of some prominent New York landmarks are built upon associations with violent criminal enterprises. The records highlight a period of systemic corruption and lawlessness in colonial governance that allowed figures like Jones to operate with impunity while maintaining public standing.
This revelation has prompted historians to call for a more nuanced look at local legends and the figures honored by public landmarks. As authorities continue to digitize colonial archives, further connections between the founding colonial class and organized crime are expected to emerge, forcing a reevaluation of the individuals glorified in public spaces today.
Key Takeaways
- Evidence suggests Thomas Jones, namesake of Jones Beach, assisted the infamous pirate William Kidd.
- The discovery sheds light on the systemic corruption present in 17th-century colonial New York governance.
- Historians are calling for a broader re-examination of figures historically glorified in public landmarks.
Exposing The Myths Of Elite Privilege
- Colonial history is often whitewashed to preserve the reputations of wealthy, powerful elites.
- This link shows that the 'founding' class was frequently involved in criminal exploitation, not just nation-building.
- Public monuments and landmarks often honor figures whose wealth was built on illicit, often violent, enterprise.
- We must confront the truth that American history is built on systemic corruption, not just noble ideals.
- Challenging historical icons is essential to dismantling the hero-worship of figures who exploited marginalized people.
- Progressive history requires an honest account of colonial greed and how it shaped the foundations of modern power.
🔑 Liberal Key Points
- History belongs to everyone, and we must demystify the 'heroes' of the past.
- The elite have always used their positions to bypass the law and enrich themselves at public expense.
- Reevaluating public space means ensuring we aren't glorifying historical figures with corrupt legacies.
Rewriting History To Diminish Heritage
- This is a classic example of modern revisionism attempting to tear down our historical figures.
- Colonial life was complex; judging 17th-century figures by the standards of today is a tactical error.
- Left-wing historians prioritize the destruction of cultural symbols over the preservation of community history.
- Jones Beach remains a symbol of public service and leisure, regardless of these tenuous historical associations.
- Focusing on minor peripheral connections is a distraction from the actual successes of early American development.
- We should celebrate the resilience of early settlers rather than constantly digging for dirt to satisfy a political agenda.
🔑 Conservative Key Points
- Heritage is about the legacy of public spaces, not the personal flaws of long-deceased individuals.
- Revisionist history serves only to divide communities and erase the pride we take in local landmarks.
- Don't let the activist agenda dismantle the cultural symbols that have defined New York for generations.
Summary
A new historical examination of 17th-century colonial New York records suggests a direct link between Thomas Jones, a notable figure after whom the famous Long Island Jones Beach is named, and the notorious pirate William Kidd. Researchers argue that evidence points to Jones providing logistical support and supplies to Kidd and his crew, effectively serving as an early colonial collaborator in maritime illicit activity.
The findings challenge the historical perception of colonial elites, suggesting that the foundations of some prominent New York landmarks are built upon associations with violent criminal enterprises. The records highlight a period of systemic corruption and lawlessness in colonial governance that allowed figures like Jones to operate with impunity while maintaining public standing.
This revelation has prompted historians to call for a more nuanced look at local legends and the figures honored by public landmarks. As authorities continue to digitize colonial archives, further connections between the founding colonial class and organized crime are expected to emerge, forcing a reevaluation of the individuals glorified in public spaces today.
Key Takeaways
- Evidence suggests Thomas Jones, namesake of Jones Beach, assisted the infamous pirate William Kidd.
- The discovery sheds light on the systemic corruption present in 17th-century colonial New York governance.
- Historians are calling for a broader re-examination of figures historically glorified in public landmarks.
Similar Articles
Jet from Texas crashes near homes in Palm Beach, Florida, killing 9 on board
an hour ago
Stevens endorses Rogers amid rift with El-Sayed
an hour ago
Five teenagers stabbed at Halloween party
17 hours ago
Shops looted as German cost-of-living protests turn violent
17 hours ago