 Dawkins's father on his death in 1744 bequeathed 25,000 acres of land and approximately £100,000 to his three surviving sons.James, the eldest son (James Dawkins II, who died in 1757), inherited 14,300 acres, William received 5000, and Henry 5700.From 1752 to 1758 Henry Dawkins was a member of the assembly in Jamaica, and was then on the council to 1759.