CORAM, THOMAS (1668-1 751), English philanthropist, was born at Lyme Regis, Dorset. He began life as a seaman and rose to the position of merchant captain. He settled at Taunton ( Mass.) for several years, engaging there in farming and boat building, and in 1703 returned to England. After 17 years of un wearied exertion, he obtained in 1739 a royal charter authorizing the establishment of his hospital for foundling infants (see FOUNDLING HOSPITALS). His later years were spent watching over the interests of the hospital ; he was also one of the pro moters of the settlement of Georgia and Nova Scotia; and his name is honourably connected with various other charities. In carrying out his philanthropic schemes he spent nearly all his private means; and an annuity of £17o was raised for him by public subscription.