Rowland, Thomas B. (1825-1918) | Sargeant Memorial Collection
Name: Rowland, Thomas B. (1825-1918)
Historical Note: Thomas B. Rowland was born on November 9, 1825 in Norfolk, Virginia. He was a produce merchant for Rowland Brothers and was known locally as the "father" of roasted peanuts. Rowland served as a member of the volunteer fire department and later as a fire commissioner for the Norfolk Fire Department. He married Mary Eliza Waller on December 20, 1855 in Virginia. During the Civil War, Rowland served as a purchasing agent in England for the Confederate States. He was a member of Christ Episcopal Church in Norfolk. Rowland died on June 14, 1918 in Norfolk, Virginia and was buried at Elmwood Cemetery in Norfolk, Virginia.