Benjamin Gifford Esq. 1652-1655 (Governor)
Benjamin Gifford was appointed Governor of the Fort in June 1652 upon the death of Colonel Ireton. He was, of course, a follower of Cromwell, and, presumably, a sound puritan, for, writing in 1652 concerning his appointment to governorship, he says "though unworthy, yet I trust the Lord will enable mee to a due discharge of the trust reposed in mee."
Gifford was still Govenor on September 28, 1655, but as in February of the following year we find mention made of Major Cadwell as Governor, it may fairly be assumed that Gifford did not retain the post beyond the end of 1655 or thereabouts. Nothing more is known of him.