Friday, April 19, 2024

Signers of The United States Constitution

This is the list of the Signers of The United States Constitution on September 17, 1787. Thus far we have visited eleven of these signers gravesites.

An excellent source of information about the Signers can be found at the following National Park Service website: Historic Places Commemorating the Signing of the Constitution



Name
DOB - DOD
Burial Location
Visited
Abraham Baldwin
23 Nov 1754 – 4 Mar 1807
Washington, DC
Richard Bassett
2 Apr 1745 – 15 Sept 1815
Wilmington, DE
Gunning Bedford Jr.
1747 – 30 Mar 1812
Wilmington, DE
John Blair
17 Apr 1732 – 31 Aug 1800
Williamsburg, VA
William Blount
6 Apr 1749 – 21 Mar 1800
Knoxville, TN
David Brearley
11 June 1745 – 16 Aug 1790
Trenton, NJ
Jacob Broom
17 Oct 1752 – 25 Apr 1810
Philadelphia, PA
2021
Pierce Butler
11 July 1744 – 15 Feb 1822
Philadelphia, PA
Daniel Carroll
22 July 1730 – 7 May 1796
Silver Spring, MD
George Clymer
16 Mar 1739 – 23 Jan 1813
Trenton, NJ
2023
Jonathan Dayton
16 Oct 1760 – 9 Oct 1824
Elizabeth, NJ
John Dickinson
13 Nov 1732 – 14 Feb 1808
Wilmington, DE
William Few
8 June 1748 – 16 July 1828
Augusta, GA
Thomas Fitzsimons
Oct 1741 – 26 Aug 1811
Philadelphia, PA
Benjamin Franklin
17 Jan 1706 – 17 Apr 1790
Philadelphia, PA
2009
Nicholas Gilman
3 Aug 1755 – 2 May 1814
Exeter, NH
Nathaniel Gorham
27 May 1738 – 11 June 1796
Charlestown, MA
Alexander Hamilton
11 Jan 1757 – 12 July 1804
New York, NY
2023
Jared Ingersoll
24 Oct 1749 – 31 Oct 1822
Philadelphia, PA
William Jackson**
9 Mar 1759 – 17 Dec 1828
Philadelphia, PA
Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer*
1723 – 16 Nov 1790
Port Tobacco, MD
William Samuel Johnson
7 Oct 1727 – 14 Nov 1819
Stratford, CT
Rufus King
24 Mar 1755 – 29 Apr 1827
Jamaica, NY
John Langdon
26 June 1741 – 18 Sept 1819
Portsmouth, NH
William Livingston
30 Nov 1723 – 25 July 1790
Brooklyn, NY
James McHenry
16 Nov 1753 – 3 May 1816
Baltimore, MD
James Madison
16 Mar 1751 – 28 June 1836
Montpelier, VA
2009
Thomas Mifflin
10 Jan 1744 – 20 Jan 1800
Lancaster, PA
Gouverneur Morris
31 Jan 1752 – 6 Nov 1816
Bronx, NY
Robert Morris
20 Jan 1734 – 8 May 1806
Philadelphia, PA
2021
William Paterson
24 Dec 1745 – 9 Sept 1806
Menands, NY
Charles Pinckney
26 Oct 1757 – 29 Oct 1824
Charleston, SC
2021
Charles Cotesworth Pinckney
25 Feb 1746 – 16 Aug 1825
Charleston, SC
George Read
18 Sep 1733 – 21 Sep 1798
New Castle, DE
2021
John Rutledge
17 Sept 1739 – 21 June 1800
Charleston, SC
Roger Sherman
19 Apr 1721 – 23 Jul 1793
New Haven, CT
2023
Richard Dobbs Spaight
25 Mar 1758 – 6 Sept 1802
New Bern, NC
George Washington
22 Feb 1732 – 14 Dec 1799
Mount Vernon, VA
2000
Hugh Williamson
5 Dec 1735 – 22 May 1819
New York, NY
James Wilson
14 Sep 1742 – 28 Aug 1798
Philadelphia, PA
2021
 
 
 
 
 
* Gravesite on Private Property
 
 
 
** Secretary
 
 



Historical Background
The Constitutional Convention of 1787 was convened against a backdrop of economic instability and interstate disputes, marking a pivotal moment in American history. This assembly aimed to address the weaknesses inherent in the Articles of Confederation and to create a stronger, more effective national government.

The Articles of Confederation, established during the Revolutionary War, provided a loose framework for a national government, which was more of a confederation of independent states than a unified federal system. Under the Articles, there was no executive branch to enforce laws and no judicial system to interpret them. The Congress had limited powers, unable to levy taxes or regulate commerce effectively.

Economic turmoil and regional disputes underscored the inadequacies of the Articles. The inability to levy taxes meant that the government could not pay its debts or fund its operations, leading to financial chaos. Additionally, each state conducted its own foreign trade policies, which often conflicted with those of other states, undermining national interests.

The lack of a central authority to regulate commerce or enforce treaties led to diplomatic weaknesses. Foreign nations, including Britain and Spain, did not respect the young nation's sovereignty, contributing to its international instability. Domestically, the inability of the national government to resolve disputes between states or maintain a standing military added to the sense of disorder.

Shays’ Rebellion, an armed uprising in Massachusetts in 1786, epitomized the widespread social and economic unrest. This event, in particular, demonstrated the need for a stronger national government, as the federal authority could not effectively respond to the crisis.

In response to these challenges, the Philadelphia Convention was convened in May 1787. Presided over by George Washington, the Convention included delegates from all states except Rhode Island. The discussions were intense and the debates vigorous, leading to the creation of a new Constitution that proposed a balanced system of federal government with distinct executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

This new Constitution also included mechanisms for central economic authority, a uniform commercial policy, and the ability to raise funds through taxation. The debates and compromises that took place during the Convention addressed the delicate balance between state and federal powers, leading to the establishment of a system of checks and balances.

The ratification of the U.S. Constitution marked the end of the convention and the beginning of a new era of federal government. The successful transition from the Articles of Confederation to the Constitution demonstrated a remarkable achievement in the art of governance, setting the foundation for the future growth and stability of the United States. This historic change reflected the vision, compromises, and innovative ideas of the Founding Fathers, ensuring the creation of a government capable of adapting to future challenges.

Abraham Baldwin
March 4, 1754 – March 4, 1807
Home:
Augusta, GA
Education:
Yale College
Profession:
Chaplain in the Continental Army; Lawyer and politician.
Info:
Abraham Baldwin, originally from Connecticut, moved to Georgia where he significantly influenced education and politics. He helped found the University of Georgia and served both in the U.S. House and Senate, often opposing Hamiltonian policies and aligning with Jefferson and Madison. During the Constitutional Convention, he played a crucial role in resolving the representation crisis, shifting his stance to support equal state representation in the Senate.


 


Richard Bassett
April 2, 1745 – August 15, 1815
Home:
Cecil County, MD
Education:
Mostly self-educated
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
Richard Bassett was a prominent figure in early American politics, starting his career as a lawyer and planter in Delaware. He served as a captain in the Dover cavalry during the Revolutionary War and participated in the Annapolis Convention. At the Constitutional Convention, he played a quiet role, voting on issues without making speeches or joining committees. Later, he served as a U.S. Senator, the Chief Justice of Delaware's court of common pleas, and Governor of Delaware. A devout Methodist, he supported religious activities and retired after his judgeship was abolished by the Jeffersonian Republicans.


 


Gunning Bedford, Jr.
1747 – March 30, 1812
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
College of New Jersey (Princeton)
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
Gunning Bedford, Jr., an influential lawyer and jurist from Delaware, played a significant role in early U.S. history. He attended the Constitutional Convention as a strong advocate for small states and was a vocal member of the committee that drafted the Great Compromise. After the convention, Bedford served as a Federal District Judge for Delaware, appointed by George Washington, and held this position until his death in 1812. He also supported abolitionism and education reform in his later years.


 


John Blair
1732 – August 31, 1800
Home:
Williamsburg, VA
Education:
College of William and Mary
Profession:
Lawyer, judge
Info:
ohn Blair, born in 1732 in Virginia, was an influential lawyer and jurist. He actively participated in Virginia's early revolutionary activities and later served as a judge in various high courts. Blair was a delegate at the Constitutional Convention, where he supported the Virginia Plan but was not vocal in debates.

In 1789, President Washington appointed him as one of the original Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court, where he served until 1796. Blair retired to Williamsburg and lived quietly until his death in 1800.


 


William Blount
March 26, 1749 – March 21, 1800
Home:
Bertie County, NC
Education:
Limited formal education
Profession:
Plantation owner, land speculator, politician
Info:
William Blount, born in 1749, was the great-grandson of Thomas Blount, an English settler in North Carolina. He received a good education and grew up to enlist as a paymaster in the North Carolina forces during the War for Independence in 1776. Two years later, he married Mary Grainger, and they had six children, one of whom also became prominent in Tennessee politics.

Blount dedicated much of his life to public service, serving in the North Carolina legislature from 1780 to 1790 and participating in national politics as a delegate to the Continental Congress from 1782 to 1787. He held various positions, including speaker of the lower house of the North Carolina legislature and member of the upper house.

In 1787, Blount was appointed as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, where he signed the Constitution reluctantly to ensure unanimity among the states. He favored his state's ratification of the document but failed to be elected to the First U.S. Senate. In 1790, he ventured westward beyond the Appalachians, settling in what became Tennessee, where he held speculative land interests and represented North Carolina in dealings with Native Americans.

Blount's popularity grew as he served as Governor for the Territory South of the River Ohio and Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the Southern Department. In 1796, he presided over the constitutional convention that transformed part of the Territory into the State of Tennessee and was elected as one of its first U.S. Senators.

However, in 1797, Blount's financial troubles escalated due to his speculations in western lands. He also became embroiled in a scandal involving a plan to use Indians, frontiersmen, and British naval forces to conquer Spanish territories. This plan was uncovered, leading to his expulsion from the Senate and impeachment in the House. Despite the scandal, Blount remained active in Tennessee politics, being elected to the state senate in 1798 and rising to the speakership. He passed away in 1800 at the age of 51 in Knoxville, Tennessee, and was buried in the cemetery of the First Presbyterian Church.


 


David Brearley
June 11, 1745 – August 16, 1790
Home:
Spring Grove, NJ
Education:
College of New Jersey (Princeton)
Profession:
Lawyer, judge
Info:
David Brearly, born in 1745, hailed from a Yorkshire family that migrated to New Jersey around 1680. He was born at Spring Grove near Trenton and pursued a career in law after attending but not graduating from the College of New Jersey. In 1767, he married Elizabeth Mullen and began practicing law in Allentown, New Jersey.

Brearly actively supported the Revolutionary cause and was apprehended by the British for high treason. However, he was rescued by a group of patriots. He participated in the convention that drafted the New Jersey State constitution in 1776 and rose from captain to colonel in the New Jersey militia during the War for Independence. In 1779, Brearly was elected as the chief justice of the New Jersey supreme court, a position he held until 1789. His notable decision in the case of Holmes v. Walton in 1780 showcased the principle of judicial review. He was also honored with an honorary M.A. degree from the College of New Jersey the following year.

At the age of 42, Brearly attended the Constitutional Convention, aligning with William Paterson and opposing proportional representation of the states in Congress. He chaired the committee on postponed matters during the convention but did not emerge as a prominent leader. Brearly's subsequent career was brief, as he passed away at the age of 45 in 1790. He presided over the New Jersey convention that ratified the Constitution in 1788 and served as a Presidential elector in 1789. President Washington appointed him as a Federal District Judge the same year, a position he held until his death.

Outside of his judicial duties, Brearly was active in lodge and church affairs, holding prominent positions in the Masonic Order and serving as a delegate to the Episcopal General Conference in 1786. He remarried Elizabeth Higbee in 1783 after the death of his first wife. Brearly passed away in Trenton in 1790 and was buried at St. Michael's Episcopal Church. His legacy lives on through his contributions to law and his dedication to public service.


 


Jacob Broom
1752 – April 25, 1810
Home:
Wilmington, DE
Education:
Limited formal education
Profession:
Surveyor, businessman, politician
Info:
Jacob Broom was born in 1752 in Wilmington, Delaware, the eldest son of a prosperous blacksmith turned farmer. He received his education at home and likely attended the local Old Academy. Despite initially following his father's footsteps into farming and studying surveying, Broom primarily pursued a career in mercantile endeavors, including shipping, the import trade, and real estate. In 1773, he married Rachel Pierce, with whom he had eight children.

Although not highly involved in patriotic activities, Broom served as assistant burgess of Wilmington in 1776, at the age of 24. Over the following years, he held various local offices, including chief burgess, borough assessor, president of the city "street regulators," and justice of the peace for New Castle County. He also provided valuable service to George Washington by preparing maps prior to the Battle of Brandywine, Pennsylvania.

Broom represented Delaware in the State legislature from 1784 to 1786 and again in 1788. Although chosen as a delegate to the Annapolis Convention, he did not attend. However, at the Constitutional Convention, Broom was a dedicated attendee, never missing a session, and spoke on several occasions, though his role was minor compared to some of the more prominent delegates.

After the Convention, Broom returned to Wilmington, where he erected a home near the Brandywine River in 1795. He held various local offices, including serving as the first postmaster of Wilmington from 1790 to 1792, and was actively involved in economic ventures such as the Delaware Bank and operating a cotton mill and machine shop. Additionally, he participated in efforts related to internal improvements, including toll roads, canals, and bridges, as well as an unsuccessful attempt to mine bog iron ore.

Broom also engaged in philanthropic and religious activities, serving on the board of trustees of the College of Wilmington and as a lay leader at Old Swedes Church. He passed away at the age of 58 in 1810 while in Philadelphia on business and was buried at Christ Church Burial Ground.

 
 


Pierce Butler
July 11, 1744 – February 15, 1822
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
Profession:
British military officer, plantation owner, politician
Info:
Pierce Butler, born in 1744 in County Carlow, Ireland, hailed from an aristocratic background, his father being Sir Richard Butler, a Member of Parliament and a baronet.

Following the path of many younger sons of the British aristocracy, Butler pursued a military career, eventually becoming a major in His Majesty's 29th Regiment. He was stationed in Boston in 1768 during colonial unrest and later resigned his commission to pursue a planter's life in the Charleston area after marrying Mary Middleton, daughter of a wealthy South Carolinian, in 1771.

During the Revolutionary War, Butler aligned with the Whig cause and served as adjutant general in the South Carolina militia in 1779. Despite his aristocratic background, he took leadership of the democratic upcountry faction in the State legislature and experienced financial difficulties due to the war's impact on his property. He even traveled to Amsterdam to seek a personal loan to alleviate his financial strain.

In 1787, Butler was elected to both the Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention, where he emerged as an outspoken nationalist and a key spokesman for the Madison-Wilson caucus. He also supported the interests of southern slaveholders and served on the committee on postponed matters.

Returning to South Carolina, Butler defended the Constitution but did not participate in the ratifying convention. He later served in the U.S. Senate from 1789 to 1796, where he demonstrated party independence by supporting some aspects of Hamilton's fiscal program while opposing others.

Butler's later career primarily focused on his role as a wealthy planter, although he briefly returned to the Senate from 1803 to 1804 to fill out an unexpired term. He spent his last years in Philadelphia, where he passed away in 1822 at the age of 77 and was buried in the yard of Christ Church.


 


Daniel Carroll
July 22, 1730 – May 5, 1796
Home:
Upper Marlboro, MD
Education:
Studied in Europe
Profession:
Plantation owner, politician
Info:
Daniel Carroll, born in 1730 at Upper Marlboro, Md., hailed from a prominent Maryland family of Irish descent. His older brother was John Carroll, the first Roman Catholic bishop in the United States, and he was distantly related to Charles Carroll of Carrollton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

After completing his education at St. Omer's in Flanders, Daniel married Eleanor Carroll and lived the life of a gentleman planter for the next two decades. He initially hesitated to support the War for Independence and remained out of the public eye during this period.

In 1781, Carroll entered politics, serving in the Continental Congress from 1781 to 1784. He played a crucial role in Maryland's decision to accede to the Articles of Confederation and began his tenure in the Maryland senate, which would span his lifetime. Additionally, he supported George Washington's efforts to promote the Patowmack Company, aiming to canalize the Potomac River to facilitate transportation between the East and the trans-Appalachian West.

Although Carroll arrived late to the Constitutional Convention, he attended regularly thereafter, contributing to debates and serving on the committee on postponed matters. Upon returning to Maryland, he campaigned for the ratification of the Constitution, although he did not participate in the State convention.

In 1789, Carroll was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he supported locating the National Capitol on the banks of the Potomac and endorsed Hamilton's program for the Federal assumption of State debts. Additionally, George Washington appointed him as one of three commissioners to survey and define the District of Columbia in 1791, where Carroll owned significant land.

Due to ill health, Carroll resigned from his post as commissioner in 1795. He passed away in 1796 at the age of 65 at his home near Rock Creek in Forest Glen, Md., and was laid to rest in St. John's Catholic Cemetery.


 


George Clymer
16 Mar 1739 – 23 Jan 1813
Home:
Morrisville, PA
Education:
Private
Profession:
Merchant, Member of the Philadelphia Committee of Safety, Elected to the Continental Congress, Member of Pennsylvania Legislature, Revenue Officer, Federal Indian Agent, First president of: Philadelphia Bank, Philadelphia Academy of Fine Arts, vice-president of the Philadelphia Agricultural Society
Info:
Clymer's early life was marked by tragedy, being orphaned in 1740 at only a year old. However, he was fortunate to be raised and educated by a wealthy uncle who eventually made him a partner in his mercantile firm. Clymer further solidified his position in the business world by merging operations with the Merediths and marrying his senior partner's daughter, Elizabeth, in 1765.

Moved by the impact of British economic restrictions on his business, Clymer quickly embraced the Revolutionary cause. He actively participated in patriotic meetings, served on the Pennsylvania council of safety, and led efforts to force the resignation of Philadelphia tea consignees appointed by Britain under the Tea Act in 1773. Clymer's financial acumen led him to serve as one of the first Continental treasurers, personally underwriting the war effort by exchanging all his specie for Continental currency.

In the Continental Congress, Clymer played a quiet yet influential role in committee efforts related to commerce, finance, and military affairs. He also served on important investigative commissions, notably remaining in Philadelphia with a few others when Congress fled to Baltimore in 1776. Despite his contributions, Clymer suffered personal losses during the War, with British troops vandalizing his home in Chester County in 1777.

Following his congressional service, Clymer was elected to the Pennsylvania legislature, where he advocated for legislative reform and opposed capital punishment. At the Constitutional Convention, he played a modest yet effective role in shaping the final document.

Clymer's later years were marked by continued public service, including as a U.S. Representative in the First Congress and as collector of excise taxes in Pennsylvania. He also contributed to community projects and served as the first president of the Philadelphia Bank. Clymer passed away in 1813 at the age of 73 at his estate, Summerseat, and was laid to rest in the Friends Meeting House Cemetery at Trenton, N.J.

George Clymer by Charles Willson Peale


Jonathan Dayton
October 16, 1760 – October 9, 1824
Home:
Elizabethtown, NJ
Education:
College of New Jersey (Princeton)
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
Jonathan Dayton was born in 1760 in Elizabethtown, New Jersey, to a family deeply involved in both local and state politics. He received a quality education, graduating from the College of New Jersey (now Princeton) in 1776. At just 19 years old, he joined the Continental Army and quickly rose to the rank of captain, serving under his father and the Marquis de Lafayette. He was even captured by the British for a time and fought in the Battle of Yorktown.

After the war, Dayton returned home, studied law, and began practicing. Throughout the 1780s, he balanced his legal career with land speculation and political activities, including a stint in the New Jersey assembly. In 1787, he attended the Constitutional Convention as a delegate, signing the Constitution despite some reservations.

Dayton's political career continued to flourish after the convention. He served in the Continental Congress in 1788 and later became a prominent Federalist legislator. Although elected to the House of Representatives in 1791, he initially opted to serve in New Jersey's state government before eventually joining the House, where he was elected Speaker in the Fourth and Fifth Congresses.

Personally, Dayton purchased Boxwood Hall in Elizabethtown as his residence and remained active in state and national politics. He later served in the U.S. Senate, supporting significant policies like the Louisiana Purchase while opposing the repeal of the Judiciary Act of 1801.

Dayton's political career faced a setback in 1806 when illness prevented him from participating in Aaron Burr's controversial expedition. Though indicted for treason, he was not prosecuted, but his national political career suffered. Nevertheless, he remained influential in New Jersey politics, holding various local offices and serving in the state assembly.

In 1824, Dayton hosted Lafayette during the latter's tour of the United States. Dayton passed away later that year in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and was laid to rest at St. John's Episcopal Church. The city of Dayton, Ohio, stands as a testament to his legacy, named after him due to his extensive land holdings in the area. He married Susan Williamson, and they had two daughters.


 


John Dickinson
November 8, 1732 – February 14, 1808
Home:
Talbot County, MD
Education:
Home-schooled
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
John Dickinson, known as the "Penman of the Revolution," was born in 1732 at Crosiadore estate in Maryland. He moved to Delaware with his family in 1740 and later pursued legal studies in Philadelphia and London. Returning to Philadelphia in 1757, he became a prominent lawyer and married Mary Norris in 1770.

Dickinson’s political career began with his election to the Delaware assembly in 1760 and later the Pennsylvania assembly. Despite losing his seat in 1764 due to political conflicts, he emerged as a key figure in the American Revolutionary movement, particularly through his writings against the Stamp Act in 1765 and subsequent publications advocating colonial rights.

His efforts included drafting resolutions for the Stamp Act Congress and penning the influential "Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania." Despite his opposition to immediate violent resistance, Dickinson's political and military involvements deepened as relations with Britain deteriorated, leading him to the First Continental Congress and various local defense committees in Philadelphia.

Although Dickinson opposed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, his contributions continued as he helped draft the Articles of Confederation and participated in military service. Later, he served as president of both Delaware and Pennsylvania, attended the Constitutional Convention in 1787, and supported the U.S. Constitution's ratification. Dickinson spent his final years writing and died in 1808 in Wilmington, Delaware.


 


William Few
June 8, 1748 – July 16, 1828
Home:
Baltimore County, MD
Education:
Limited formal education
Profession:
Farmer, lawyer, politician
Info:
William Few was born in 1748 in Maryland and faced early hardships, including the tragic hanging of his brother due to political unrest. His family moved to Georgia for better prospects. Few, who had informally studied law, began practicing in Augusta around 1776.

During the American Revolution, Few aligned with the Whig cause, serving as a lieutenant colonel in the dragoons and engaging actively in Georgia's political and military affairs. He held multiple roles including legislator, executive council member, and Continental Congress delegate, significantly contributing to the nascent state’s governance.

At the Constitutional Convention of 1787, Few was instrumental despite missing parts of the proceedings due to his concurrent congressional duties. He later became one of Georgia's first U.S. Senators, a federal judge, and engaged in various civic duties after moving to New York City.

Continuing his public service in New York, Few held positions such as legislator, alderman, and inspector of prisons, among others. His philanthropic efforts, especially towards Methodist causes, marked his later years until his death in 1828 in Fishkill-on-the-Hudson. Few's legacy includes his contributions to both Georgia and New York’s political landscapes.


 


Thomas Fitzsimons
1741 – August 29, 1811
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
Limited formal education
Profession:
Merchant, politician
Info:
Thomas Fitzsimons, born in Ireland in 1741, migrated to America and established himself as a prominent merchant in Philadelphia through his partnership in George Meade and Company. His business flourished in the West India trade.

As the American Revolution took hold, Fitzsimons supported the Whig cause, taking on roles such as militia commander and member of various local committees, while his firm aided the war effort. His political career expanded post-war as he served in the Continental Congress and the Pennsylvania legislature, and participated in the Constitutional Convention, aligning with nationalist views.

Fitzsimons continued to influence American politics as a U.S. Representative, advocating for Hamiltonian federalist policies. Despite facing financial setbacks, he remained a significant figure in business, contributing to institutions like the Bank of North America and the Insurance Company of North America. His commitment to civic and religious causes in Philadelphia persisted until his death in 1811.


 


Benjamin Franklin
17 Jan 1706 – 17 Apr 1790
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
Self-taught, apprenticed as a printer. Honorary Doctor of Laws, Universities of Edinburgh and Oxford.
Profession:
Printer, Publisher, Scientist. Clerk of the Pennsylvania Assembly, Founded the Library Company of Philadelphia,Postmaster of Philadelphia, Member of Pennsylvania Assembly, Deputy Postmaster general of the British colonies in America, founded Academy of Sciences of Philadelphia, Agent to Europe for Pennsylvania, for Pennsylvania, Georgia, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Elected to Continental Congress, Testified before Parliament concerning the Stamp Act, Postmaster General of the united colonies, Commissioner to the French Court, Minister plenipotentiary to the French Court, Negotiator in and Member of the Treaties with Great-Britain, Member of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, President of Pennsylvania Society for the Abolition of Slavery, Senior member of the Constitutional Convention
Info:
Benjamin Franklin, born in 1706 in Boston, was the son of a soap- and candle-maker. With minimal formal education, Franklin was largely self-taught and began contributing to his half-brother's newspaper at an early age. His move to Philadelphia in 1723 marked the start of a distinguished career in printing and publishing.

Franklin's influence extended beyond business. His civic contributions included founding libraries and educational institutions, and he made significant advancements in science. His political career was equally prolific, serving in various capacities including as a colonial legislator and postmaster general, and representing Pennsylvania in significant diplomatic and political roles.

Franklin's political evolution peaked during his time in England, where he initially sought to ease colonial tensions. However, the Stamp Act crisis shifted his views, leading him to become an outspoken advocate for American rights. Upon returning to America, he played pivotal roles in the Continental Congress and the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.

In his later years, Franklin's diplomatic efforts were crucial in securing French support during the American Revolution, and he was instrumental in negotiating the Treaty of Paris. A fervent abolitionist, Franklin spent his final years promoting social causes, passing away in 1790 in Philadelphia. His legacy as a foundational figure in American history remains profound.

Benjamin Franklin by Joseph Siffrein Duplessis


Nicholas Gilman
August 3, 1755 – May 2, 1814
Home:
Exeter, NH
Education:
Limited formal education
Profession:
Merchant, politician
Info:
Nicholas Gilman, born in 1755 in Exeter, New Hampshire, was deeply involved in both the local business and the political scene from a young age. During the American Revolution, he served as a captain in the Continental Army, demonstrating his commitment to the colonial cause.

Post-war, Gilman returned to New Hampshire and re-engaged in politics and his family's business. He served in the Continental Congress but was particularly notable for his participation in the Constitutional Convention of 1787. Although he arrived late and played a minor role, he was influential in the ratification process back in New Hampshire.

As a politician, Gilman transitioned from being a Federalist to a Democratic-Republican, reflecting his evolving political views. He served multiple terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate, and held significant state positions, including State treasurer of New Hampshire.

Gilman's career exemplified a blend of military service and steadfast political involvement. He remained active in national and state politics until his death in 1814 in Philadelphia. Gilman's legacy is marked by his moderate political stance and his consistent dedication to the needs of his state and country.


 


Nathaniel Gorham
May 27, 1738 – June 11, 1796
Home:
Charlestown, MA
Education:
Limited formal education
Profession:
Merchant, politician
Info:
Nathaniel Gorham, born in 1738 in Charlestown, Massachusetts, began his career as a merchant after briefly apprenticing in Connecticut. He married Rebecca Call in 1763, with whom he had nine children. Gorham's political journey started in the colonial legislature, supporting the Whig cause throughout the Revolutionary period.

He held various significant roles, including delegate to the provincial congress and member of the Commonwealth's Board of War. Gorham also served in the Massachusetts legislature and became the speaker in several terms. Despite lacking legal training, he started a judicial career in 1785.

As a member of the Continental Congress, Gorham played an influential role during critical periods of the American Revolution. He was notable at the Constitutional Convention, advocating for a strong national government and helping secure Massachusetts’ ratification of the Constitution.

However, Gorham's later years were marked by financial troubles following a risky land deal in New York, which led to his insolvency and decline in political and social stature. He died in 1796 and is buried in Charlestown, Massachusetts.


 


Alexander Hamilton
January 11, 1755 or 1757 – July 12, 1804
Home:
New York, NY
Education:
King's College (Columbia)
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
Alexander Hamilton was born around 1755 in the Leeward Islands. His early life was marked by abandonment and hardship, but benefactors recognized his intelligence and funded his education in New York. Hamilton quickly became involved in revolutionary activities, writing influential pamphlets and joining the military as an aide to General Washington.

Post-war, Hamilton studied law, entered practice, and was a key advocate for a stronger central government, contributing to the Federalist Papers and helping ratify the Constitution. As the first Secretary of the Treasury, he established foundational financial systems and policies that shaped the future of the U.S.

Hamilton's political and personal life was tumultuous, marked by feuds and scandals. His rivalry with Aaron Burr culminated in a fatal duel in 1804, cutting his influential career short. Hamilton is remembered as a profound architect of the American financial and political system.

portrait by John Trumbull
 


Jared Ingersoll
October 27, 1749 – October 31, 1822
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
Yale College
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
Born in 1749 in Connecticut, Jared Ingersoll was a prominent lawyer and politician. He studied law in London and shifted from Loyalist sympathies to support the American cause. Ingersoll held various legal and political positions, including attorney general of Pennsylvania and U.S. District Attorney.

He was a quiet yet supportive delegate at the Constitutional Convention and later ran unsuccessfully for Vice-President as a Federalist. His legal career was distinguished, involving significant constitutional cases before the Supreme Court.

Ingersoll's contributions to American law and politics were substantial, though he often worked behind the scenes. He died in 1822 in Philadelphia, leaving behind a legacy of public service and legal excellence.


 


William Jackson (secretary)
March 9, 1759 – December 17, 1828
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
Primarily self-educated
Profession:
Military officer, merchant, politician
Info:
William Jackson, born in Cumberland, England in 1759, moved to Charleston, South Carolina, after losing his parents. He joined the Continental Army, quickly advancing from cadet to second lieutenant by 1776. Throughout the Revolutionary War, he served in significant battles and as an aide to major generals, demonstrating his leadership and strategic skills.

Post-war, Jackson's career diversified as he served as assistant secretary of war and as a secretary to the U.S. Constitutional Convention in 1787, where he signed the Constitution. His role did not end with the war; he also became a personal secretary to President George Washington.

Transitioning to law, Jackson was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in 1788. Despite various pursuits in public service, including attempts to secure other governmental posts, he eventually focused on his legal practice and other business ventures. He later became involved with the Society of the Cincinnati and continued public engagements until his death in 1828.


 


Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer
1723 – November 16, 1790
Home:
Charles County, MD
Education:
Limited formal education
Profession:
Plantation owner, politician
Info:
Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, born in 1723 in Maryland, was a wealthy landowner and influential political figure. He served in various capacities, including as a member of Maryland's provincial court and as president of the state's senate.

Despite his initial reluctance, Jenifer supported the Revolutionary War effort and held several key financial and administrative roles in Maryland. He was a strong advocate for a centralized national government, participating in the Constitutional Convention and supporting nationalist figures like Madison.

Jenifer's political career concluded shortly after the convention, and he died in 1790 in Annapolis. His contributions to the early governance of the United States, particularly in shaping the Constitution, are noted in his legacy, although the exact location of his grave remains unknown.


 


William Samuel Johnson
October 7, 1727 – November 14, 1819
Home:
Stratford, CT
Education:
Yale College, King's College (Columbia)
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
Born in 1727 in Connecticut, William Samuel Johnson was steered towards academia by his father, a prominent clergyman and educator. Graduating from Yale and later receiving honors from Harvard, Johnson chose law over ministry, establishing a successful practice. His political career was marked by moderate views, especially during the tumultuous Revolutionary War period.

Despite his initial reluctance, Johnson played a significant role at the Constitutional Convention, advocating for the Connecticut Compromise. Post-Constitution, he served as a U.S. Senator and significantly influenced the Judiciary Act of 1789. Later, he dedicated his efforts to the presidency of Columbia College, boosting its stature before retiring in 1800.


 


Rufus King
March 24, 1755 – April 29, 1827
Home:
Scarborough, MA
Education:
Harvard College
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
Rufus King, born in 1755 in present-day Maine, quickly rose in political and legal circles after graduating from Harvard and pursuing law. His early political career included terms in the Massachusetts legislature and the Continental Congress, where he spoke against slavery.

As a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, King transformed from a supporter of the Articles of Confederation to a proponent of a strong federal government. His subsequent political career was marked by his service as a U.S. Senator and Ambassador to Great Britain, navigating complex international relations. King's later years were focused on national issues, including opposition to the Missouri Compromise, before retiring due to health concerns.


 


John Langdon
June 26, 1741 – September 18, 1819
Home:
Portsmouth, NH
Education:
Limited formal education
Profession:
Merchant, politician
Info:
John Langdon, born in 1741 in New Hampshire, was a successful merchant who became a prominent Revolutionary War figure. He used his resources to support American forces and played a significant role in key battles. As a politician, he was deeply involved in shaping state and national policies, serving in the Continental Congress and later as a U.S. Senator.

Langdon was instrumental in the Constitutional Convention, despite arriving late, and supported strengthening the federal government. He shifted from the Federalist to the Democratic-Republican party, reflecting his evolving political views. After serving as Governor of New Hampshire, he declined further national office roles, retiring from active politics in 1812. Langdon's life exemplified commitment to public service and governance.


 


William Livingston
November 30, 1723 – July 25, 1790
Home:
Albany, NY
Education:
Yale College
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
William Livingston, born in 1723 in Albany, New York, chose a career in law over his family's trading business. After graduating from Yale in 1741, he married Susanna French in 1745, with whom he had thirteen children. Livingston quickly became known as a supporter of popular causes, using his satirical writing skills to oppose Anglican influence in New York.

In 1769, after losing control of the colonial assembly, Livingston retired to his estate, Liberty Hall, in New Jersey, intending to live as a gentleman farmer. However, the Revolutionary War pulled him back into public service. He became a member of the Essex County committee of correspondence and later served in the First and Second Continental Congresses.

In June 1776, Livingston was appointed brigadier general of the New Jersey militia and was elected as New Jersey's first governor later that year, a position he held for fourteen years. During his tenure, he was active in the antislavery movement and agricultural innovation. Livingston also participated in the 1787 Constitutional Convention, though he missed some sessions due to his gubernatorial duties.

Livingston died in 1790 at his estate. Initially buried in the local Presbyterian Churchyard, his remains were later moved to Trinity Churchyard in Manhattan and then to Brooklyn's Greenwood Cemetery.


 


James McHenry
November 16, 1753 – May 3, 1816
Home:
Baltimore, MD
Education:
Studied medicine
Profession:
Surgeon, politician
Info:
Born in Ireland in 1753, James McHenry emigrated to Philadelphia in 1771. He studied medicine under Dr. Benjamin Rush and joined the Continental Army as a surgeon. Captured in 1776, he was paroled and became George Washington's secretary.

After the war, McHenry served in the Maryland Senate and the Continental Congress. He played a minor role at the Constitutional Convention due to his brother's illness but kept a journal that proved historically valuable. McHenry vigorously supported the Constitution's ratification in Maryland.

Appointed Secretary of War by Washington, McHenry served until 1800, when disagreements with President Adams led to his resignation. He retired to his estate near Baltimore, maintaining his Federalist views and opposing the War of 1812. McHenry died in 1816 and is buried in Baltimore's Westminster Presbyterian Cemetery.


 


James Madison
March 16, 1751 – June 28, 1836
Home:
Montpelier, VA
Education:
College of New Jersey (Princeton)
Profession:
Lawyer, politician, considered "Father of the Constitution"
Info:
James Madison, born in 1751 in Virginia, was a key architect of the Constitution and the fourth President of the United States. After graduating from the College of New Jersey (Princeton), he quickly engaged in state and local politics, later serving in the Continental Congress.

Madison's leadership at the 1787 Constitutional Convention was instrumental, advocating for a strong federal government. His contributions continued as he co-authored The Federalist Papers and helped pass the Bill of Rights. Along with Jefferson, he founded the Democratic-Republican Party, opposing Hamilton's policies.

As Secretary of State and later President, Madison dealt with the challenges of European conflicts impacting U.S. sovereignty, leading to the War of 1812. After his presidency, he remained active, focusing on the University of Virginia and national unity. Madison died in 1836, leaving a profound legacy in American governance.


 
Montpelier - Montpelier Station, Virginia
James Madison
Dolly and James Madison's Headstones
Dolly Madison


Thomas Mifflin
January 10, 1744 – January 20, 1800
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
College of Philadelphia (University of Pennsylvania)
Profession:
Merchant, military officer, politician
Info:
Thomas Mifflin, a member of a prominent Quaker family in Philadelphia, was born in 1744. He left his Quaker roots to join the Continental Army, serving as Quartermaster General and later as a major general. Despite his military service, Mifflin faced criticism and controversy, particularly regarding his administrative roles.

After his military career, Mifflin returned to politics, serving in the Pennsylvania legislature and as President of the Continental Congress. He was a delegate at the Constitutional Convention, though he was not a prominent speaker there. Mifflin later served as Pennsylvania's governor, where his policies aligned with the Democratic-Republican Party.

Despite his early wealth, Mifflin's extravagant lifestyle led to financial difficulties. He died in 1800 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, with the state covering his burial expenses due to his indebtedness. Mifflin's life was marked by significant public service tempered by personal and financial controversies.


 


Gouverneur Morris
January 31, 1752 – November 6, 1816
Home:
Morrisania, NY
Education:
King's College (Columbia)
Profession:
Lawyer, politician, key figure in writing the final draft of the Constitution
Info:
Gouverneur Morris, born in 1752 at Morrisania in present-day Bronx, came from a wealthy family with a record of public service. Educated by private tutors and at a Huguenot school, he graduated from King’s College at 16 and later practiced law in New York. Initially wary of the revolutionary movement, Morris became an active supporter, serving in New York's provincial congress and drafting the state’s first constitution.

Morris continued his public service in the legislature and the Continental Congress, where he was a key supporter of George Washington. Despite losing a congressional re-election bid in 1779, he played a significant role as the assistant to the Superintendent of Finance. Morris was a dominant voice at the Constitutional Convention, advocating for a strong national government and playing a crucial role in drafting the Constitution.

After public service, Morris spent a decade in Europe engaging in diplomacy and business. Returning to the U.S., he served briefly in the Senate as a staunch Federalist. Morris retired to Morrisania, where he remained active in politics and opposed the War of 1812. He died in 1816.


 


Robert Morris
20 Jan 1734 – 8 May 1806
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
Private and Apprenticeship
Profession:
Merchant, Delegate to the Continental Congress, Appointed Special Commissioner of Finance, Author of the plan for a National Bank, Financial Agent of the United States, Delegate to the Pennsylvania Legislature, Delegate to the Constitutional Convention, United States Senator, Appointed Secretary of the Treasury
Info:
Born near Liverpool, England, in 1734, Robert Morris moved to Maryland at 13 to join his father. He later moved to Philadelphia, becoming a partner in a prominent firm. His engagement in revolutionary activities was cautious initially but he became instrumental in financing the American Revolution, earning a reputation as a financier.

After serving in the Continental Congress and the Pennsylvania legislature, Morris was appointed as Superintendent of Finance, where he implemented significant financial reforms and founded the Bank of North America. His later years were marked by extensive land speculation, leading to financial ruin and imprisonment for debt. Morris died in 1806 in relative obscurity.

Robert Morris by Robert Edge Pine (c. 1720 - 1788) Photographer: cliff1066 - Flickr
Christ Church
Robert Morris - 2021


William Paterson
December 24, 1745 – September 9, 1806
Home:
Albany, NY
Education:
College of New Jersey (Princeton)
Profession:
Lawyer, judge, politician
Info:
William Paterson was born in Ireland in 1745 and moved to America as a child. He graduated from the College of New Jersey (Princeton), practiced law, and became active in New Jersey's revolutionary efforts, serving as the state's attorney general during the Revolution.

Paterson was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, where he proposed the New Jersey Plan, advocating for equal state representation regardless of size. After the convention, he served in the U.S. Senate and as Governor of New Jersey. Paterson was later appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court, where he served until his death in 1806.


 


Charles Pinckney
October 26, 1757 – October 29, 1824
Home:
Charleston, SC
Education:
Educated in England
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
Charles Pinckney, born in 1757 in Charleston, South Carolina, was a prominent advocate of American independence and national government. He claimed, controversially, to have influenced the U.S. Constitution significantly. Pinckney served in the Continental Army and was captured by the British during the war.

After the war, Pinckney held various political roles, including Governor of South Carolina and U.S. Senator. As a diplomat, he was instrumental in negotiations with Spain. His political views evolved, leading him to support the Democratic-Republican Party against his previous Federalist allies. Pinckney retired from politics in 1821 and died in 1824.

portrait by Gilbert Stuart
 


Charles Cotesworth Pinckney
February 25, 1746 – August 16, 1825
Home:
Charleston, SC
Education:
Educated in England
Profession:
Military officer, lawyer, politician
Info:
Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, born in 1746 in Charleston, had a distinguished military and political career. Educated in England, he practiced law in South Carolina and served in the Continental Congress and the state legislature. During the Constitutional Convention, he was a strong advocate for a robust federal government.

Pinckney's post-convention career included diplomatic missions and military appointments. He was a major general in the U.S. Army and ran unsuccessfully for president. Pinckney was also active in educational and religious organizations in South Carolina. He died in 1825.


 


George Read
18 Sep 1733 – 21 Sep 1798
Home:
New Castle, DE
Education:
Private school - Chester Pennsylvania, Philadelphia College, Law studies
Profession:
Admitted to Philadelphia Bar, Attorney General (in Delaware), Member of Delaware Committee of Correspondence, Elected to Continental Congress, Member of Delaware Constitutional Convention, Acting Governor of Delaware, Judge, Court of Appeals, State Senator, Chief Justice of the State of Delaware
Info:
George Read, born in 1733 in Maryland, moved to Delaware where he practiced law and entered politics. A moderate who was initially reluctant about independence, Read became a signer of the Declaration of Independence and played key roles in Delaware's government and at the Constitutional Convention.

Read was known for his conservative views and support for a strong executive branch. After serving in the U.S. Senate, he became the chief justice of Delaware. Read's contributions to state and national governance were significant until his death in 1798.

George Read by Robert Edge Pine
Immanuel Church
Immanuel Church
George Read - 2021
George Read - 2021


John Rutledge
September 17, 1739 – July 23, 1800
Home:
Charleston, SC
Education:
Educated in England
Profession:
Lawyer, politician
Info:
John Rutledge, born in 1739 near Charleston, South Carolina, was a prominent early American statesman. After studying law at London's Middle Temple, he returned to Charleston, establishing a successful legal career and acquiring considerable wealth through plantations and slaves. Elected to the provincial assembly in 1761, Rutledge played a moderate role during the revolutionary tensions, chairing a committee that petitioned the House of Lords during the Stamp Act Congress.

Rutledge's political career escalated as he represented South Carolina in the First and Second Continental Congresses, adopting moderate positions. He was instrumental in reorganizing South Carolina's government and served as the president of the lower house of the legislature. In 1779, during the British invasion of South Carolina, Rutledge became governor, facing significant military challenges and personal losses, including the confiscation of his property when Charleston fell in 1780.

Post-war, Rutledge served in the Continental Congress and on South Carolina's chancery court. He was a leading delegate at the Constitutional Convention, advocating for southern interests and chairing the committee of detail. Washington appointed him as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court in 1789, and he later served briefly as Chief Justice. His public career ended when the Senate rejected his appointment due to his outspoken views and health issues. Rutledge died in 1800.


 


Roger Sherman
19 Apr 1721 – 23 Jul 1793
Home:
New Haven, CT
Education:
Informal, Cobbler, Surveyor, Lawyer. Honorary M.A. from Yale
Profession:
Admitted to Bar in New Milford Connecticut, Justice of the Peace, elected to General Assembly, representing New Milford Connecticut, Commisary for the Connecticut Troops, Elected to various Upper and Lower House offices representing New Haven, Judge of the Superior Court of Connecticut, Elected to Continental Congress, Distinguished member of the Constitutional Convention, Elected US Senator for Connecticut
Info:
Roger Sherman, born in 1723 in Newton, Massachusetts, was a self-taught man who rose from humble beginnings to significant political influence. A cobbler by trade, Sherman moved to New Milford, Connecticut, where he became a successful lawyer and politician without formal legal education. He served in the colonial legislature and was known for his political essays and participation in important committees.

Sherman was a major figure in the Continental Congress, contributing to the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation. He was known for his advocacy of high taxes over borrowing or printing money. In 1784, Sherman was elected as the mayor of New Haven and participated in the Constitutional Convention in 1787, where he played a critical role in the Great Compromise.

In his later years, Sherman served in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate, where he supported the Federalist cause. He died in 1793 in New Haven and was buried in the Grove Street Cemetery.



Richard Dobbs Spaight
March 25, 1758 – September 6, 1802
Home:
New Bern, NC
Education:
Educated in Scotland
Profession:
Plantation owner, politician
Info:
Richard Dobbs Spaight was born in 1758 in New Bern, North Carolina. After being orphaned at eight, he was educated in Ireland and graduated from the University of Glasgow. Returning to North Carolina in 1778, he quickly engaged in the state's Revolutionary War efforts, serving both militarily and legislatively.

Spaight was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention in 1787, where he supported the new framework but maintained a low profile. He served as North Carolina's governor from 1792 to 1795 and was a presidential elector in 1793. After a stint in the U.S. House of Representatives, Spaight returned to state politics but was tragically killed in a duel in 1802.


 


George Washington
February 22, 1732 – December 14, 1799
Home:
Mount Vernon, VA
Education:
Limited formal education
Profession:
Military officer, plantation owner, politician, first President of the United States
Info:
George Washington, born in 1732 in Virginia, was a pivotal figure in American history. His early career as a surveyor was followed by military engagements in the French and Indian War, setting the stage for his later leadership. Washington was a delegate to the Continental Congresses and served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, achieving a defining victory at Yorktown.

As the presiding officer at the Constitutional Convention in 1787, Washington's leadership helped shape the nation. He became the first President of the United States in 1789, setting many precedents during his two terms. Washington's Farewell Address provided enduring guidance on national unity and foreign policy. Retiring to Mount Vernon, he died in 1799, leaving a legacy of leadership and character.


 
Deven raising the flag at Mount Vernon, and laying a wreath at the tomb of George Washington. The Wreath laying ceremony was arranged prior to our visit to Mount Vernon.
Memorial House
Outline of the foundation of George Washington's birthplace.
Obelisk near George Washington's birthplace vistor center.


Hugh Williamson
December 5, 1735 – May 22, 1819
Home:
West Nottingham Township, PA
Education:
College of Philadelphia (University of Pennsylvania), University of Utrecht
Profession:
Physician, mathematician, politician
Info:
Hugh Williamson, born in 1735 in Pennsylvania, was a scholar and polymath who excelled in various fields. After initially training for the ministry, he switched to medicine and science, studying abroad before practicing in Philadelphia. He played an active role in the American Revolution, contributing writings that supported the colonial cause.

Williamson served as a surgeon-general during the war and entered politics afterward, serving in the Continental Congress and later in the Constitutional Convention. He was known for his involvement in key compromises and his advocacy for a strong federal government. After the convention, Williamson's life focused on literary and philanthropic pursuits until his death in 1819.


 


James Wilson
14 Sep 1742 – 28 Aug 1798
Home:
Edenton, NC
Education:
Attended the Universities of St. Andrews, Glasgow, and Edinburgh; College of Philadelphia. Honorary M.A. from Philadelphia College, studied Law with John Dickinson
Profession:
Admitted to the Bar, Member of the Pennsylvania provincial meeting, appointed to a Committee of Correspondence, Elected to Provincial Congress, Commissioned Colonel of the Fourth Cumberland County Battalion, Elected to the Continental Congress, Director of the Bank of North America, Member of the Constitutional Convention, Associate Justice to the US. Supreme Court
Info:
James Wilson was born around 1741 in Carskerdo, Scotland, and educated at the Universities of St. Andrews, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. He emigrated to America in 1765, during the Stamp Act agitations, and quickly transitioned from a Latin tutor at the College of Philadelphia to studying law under John Dickinson. Admitted to the bar in 1767, Wilson established a law practice and began a series of land speculations while also engaging in academic lectures.

Wilson entered Revolutionary politics in 1774, leading the Carlisle committee of correspondence and authoring influential tracts that established him as a Whig leader. Elected to the Continental Congress in 1775, he played a pivotal role, initially advocating for delay in the vote for independence but ultimately signing the Declaration of Independence in 1776. His political stance shifted towards conservatism, leading to a temporary fall from grace among his constituents.

Wilson's career rebounded as he became an advocate for aristocratic and conservative republican ideals. He survived a violent mob attack in 1779, known as the "Fort Wilson" incident. In the Constitutional Convention of 1787, Wilson's profound impact was evident as he significantly influenced the drafting process and fiercely advocated for ratification in Pennsylvania. Appointed by George Washington, Wilson served as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court starting in 1789, though his tenure was marred by financial difficulties and controversy.

Wilson's later years were troubled by debt and criticism, leading to his death in 1798 under stressful conditions while staying at the home of a fellow Supreme Court Justice in North Carolina. His contributions to the U.S. legal framework, however, remain a significant part of his legacy, marked by his deep engagement with the development of the U.S. Constitution and his academic endeavors in law.

James Wilson - 2021
James Wilson - 2021




No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)