PRENCE, or PRINCE, Thomas, governor of Plymouth colony, born in England in 1601; died in Plymouth, Massachusetts, 29 March, 1673. He sailed for this country on the "Mayflower," and was a signer of the first compact that was drawn up by the passengers of the vessel before their landing, under date of 11 November, 1620. He was one of the first settlers of Nansett, or Eastham, was chosen governor of Plymouth colony in 1634, serving until 1638, and again from 1657 till 1673, and was an assistant in 1635-'7 and 1639-'57. He was an impartial magistrate, was distinguished for his religious zeal, and opposed those that he believed to be heretics, particularly the Quakers. In opposition to the clamors of the ignorant he procured revenue for the support of grammar-schools in the colony. Governor Prence gave to Wamsutta and Pometacom, the sons of Massasoit, the names of Alexander and Philip as a compliment to their warlike character.