Twenty of the 53 signers also signed the Declaration of Independence.
Two of the signers eventually became Loyalists after the signing of The Declaration of Independence, and fled to Britain. They were Joseph Galloway and Isaac Low. One of the signers, Silas Deane, died under mysterious circumstances on his way back to Boston, and is buried in Deal, UK.
Thus far we have visited 32 of the 53 gravesites of these signers.
Recommended video: The Forgotten Foundational Document: The Articles of Association. by @TheHistoryGuyChannel.
Name
DOB - DOD
Burial Location
Visited
John Alsop
1724 – 22 Nov 1794
New York, NY
Edward Biddle
1738 – 5 September 1779
Baltimore, MD
Simon Boerum
29 Feb 1724 – 11 July 1775
New York, NY
Richard Caswell
3 Aug 1729 – 10 Nov 1789
Kinston, NC
Stephen Crane
1709 – 1 July 1780
Elizabethtown, NJ
Thomas Cushing III
24 Mar 1725 – 28 Feb 1788
Boston, MA
John De Hart
25 July 1727 – 1 June 1795
Elizabeth, NJ
Silas Deane
4 Jan 1738 – 23 Sept 1789
Deal, UK
James Duane
6 Feb 1733 – 1 Feb 1797
Duanesburg, NY
Nathaniel Folsom
28 Sept 1726 – 26 May 1790
Exeter, NH
Christopher Gadsden
16 Feb 1724 – 28 Aug 1805
Charleston, SC
Joseph Galloway
1731 — 29 Aug 1803
Watford, UK
Thomas Johnson Jr.
14 Nov 1732 – 26 Oct 1819
Frederick, MD
William Livingston
30 Nov 1723 – 25 July 1790
Brooklyn, NY
Isaac Low
13 Apr 1735 – 25 July 1791
Cowes, UK
Henry Middleton
1717 – 13 June 1784
Goose Creek, SC
Thomas Mifflin
10 Jan 1744 – 20 Jan 1800
Lancaster, PA
Richard Smith
22 Mar 1735 – 17 Sept 1803
Natchez, MS
John Sullivan
17 Feb 1740 – 23 Jan 1795
Durham, NH
Matthew Tilghman
17 Feb 1718 – 4 May 1790
Claiborne, MD
Henry Wisner
1720 – 4 Mar 1790
Wallkill, NY
* Gravesite on Private Property
Historical Background
The Continental Association, also known as the Articles of Association, was an agreement among the American colonies adopted by the First Continental Congress in Philadelphia on October 20, 1774, as a response to the escalating American Revolution. The colonies aimed to apply economic pressure on Britain, hoping to force Parliament to address their grievances, particularly the repeal of the Intolerable Acts. The agreement outlined a "non-importation, non-consumption, non-exportation" policy that called for a boycott of British goods. The boycott, suggested by Richard Henry Lee and based on an earlier Virginia initiative by George Washington and George Mason, opened with a pledge of loyalty to King George III but blamed Parliament for the oppressive laws imposed on the colonies.
The Continental Association's ban on British imports began on December 1, 1774, significantly reducing trade with Britain. In response, the British passed the New England Restraining Act, further escalating tensions. However, the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War in April 1775 overshadowed the need for the boycott. Despite this, the agreement represented the colonies' growing unity and resolve to act collectively in defense of their rights. Abraham Lincoln later recognized the adoption of the Association as a foundational moment in the formation of the United States, noting it as the origin of the Union in his first inaugural address in 1861.
Background
The Coercive Acts, passed by Parliament in 1774, aimed to punish Massachusetts for the Boston Tea Party and restructure colonial administration. This led to the convening of the First Continental Congress on September 5, 1774, where delegates from twelve colonies met to coordinate a response. Leaders such as George Washington, John Adams, and Patrick Henry were present. The Congress rejected a plan of reconciliation with Britain, fearing it would acknowledge Parliament's right to regulate colonial trade and impose taxes. Many Americans saw the Coercive Acts as a threat to their liberties, sparking the call for economic boycotts.
The boycott idea gained traction in May 1774, when the Boston Town Meeting, led by Samuel Adams, passed a resolution urging a halt to trade with Britain until the Boston Port Act, one of the Coercive Acts, was repealed. Paul Revere played a key role in spreading this message. Congress soon endorsed the Suffolk Resolves, which advocated for an embargo on British trade and called for the colonies to organize militias. This cooperation among the colonies laid the groundwork for the Continental Association, adopted on October 20, 1774, to address the growing crisis.
Provisions
The Continental Association immediately banned British tea and, starting December 1, 1774, all imports from Britain, Ireland, and the British West Indies. If the Intolerable Acts were not repealed by September 10, 1775, the colonies would also stop exporting goods to these regions. Article 2 specifically banned ships involved in the slave trade. The agreement also addressed the potential scarcity of goods, restricting merchants from price gouging. Local committees of inspection were established to monitor compliance, and violators were publicly ostracized. The Association promoted frugality, discouraging extravagance in clothing and even setting guidelines for simple funeral observances.
Enforcement
The Continental Association went into effect on December 1, 1774. Compliance was largely enforced through local committees, which were effective in most colonies except Georgia, where the need for British protection from Native Americans hindered participation. Public pressure played a significant role in enforcing the boycott, with newspapers and social networks shaming those who violated the agreement. In some cases, direct action was taken, such as in Annapolis, Maryland, where a merchant chose to burn his ship rather than face the consequences of importing British goods. In areas where enforcement was difficult, some counties enacted price ceilings to discourage smuggling.
Effects
The boycott caused a dramatic drop in trade with Britain, and by early 1775, the local committees of safety had become de facto revolutionary governments in many colonies. The Continental Association forced colonists to take sides, with Patriots supporting the boycott and Loyalists opposing it. In South Carolina, for example, Patriots dominated coastal areas, while Loyalists were more prevalent in the backcountry. The Association also led to the development of new governmental structures that supervised revolutionary activities.
Britain responded by passing the New England Restraining Act, which restricted the colonies' ability to trade with anyone except Britain and the British West Indies. This act, along with other punitive measures, only intensified the conflict, eventually leading to the outbreak of the Revolutionary War. Although the boycott ended with the war, the Continental Association's lasting impact was its demonstration of the colonies' ability to organize and act collectively in defense of their rights.
Legacy
The Continental Association is considered one of the first major steps toward the formation of the United States. In his first inaugural address in 1861, President Abraham Lincoln traced the origins of the Union to the Articles of Association, emphasizing the continuity between the Continental Association, the Declaration of Independence, and the Articles of Confederation. The Association represented the colonies' collective resolve to resist British oppression and laid the foundation for the political unity that would eventually lead to the establishment of the United States.
The Continental Association's ban on British imports began on December 1, 1774, significantly reducing trade with Britain. In response, the British passed the New England Restraining Act, further escalating tensions. However, the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War in April 1775 overshadowed the need for the boycott. Despite this, the agreement represented the colonies' growing unity and resolve to act collectively in defense of their rights. Abraham Lincoln later recognized the adoption of the Association as a foundational moment in the formation of the United States, noting it as the origin of the Union in his first inaugural address in 1861.
Background
The Coercive Acts, passed by Parliament in 1774, aimed to punish Massachusetts for the Boston Tea Party and restructure colonial administration. This led to the convening of the First Continental Congress on September 5, 1774, where delegates from twelve colonies met to coordinate a response. Leaders such as George Washington, John Adams, and Patrick Henry were present. The Congress rejected a plan of reconciliation with Britain, fearing it would acknowledge Parliament's right to regulate colonial trade and impose taxes. Many Americans saw the Coercive Acts as a threat to their liberties, sparking the call for economic boycotts.
The boycott idea gained traction in May 1774, when the Boston Town Meeting, led by Samuel Adams, passed a resolution urging a halt to trade with Britain until the Boston Port Act, one of the Coercive Acts, was repealed. Paul Revere played a key role in spreading this message. Congress soon endorsed the Suffolk Resolves, which advocated for an embargo on British trade and called for the colonies to organize militias. This cooperation among the colonies laid the groundwork for the Continental Association, adopted on October 20, 1774, to address the growing crisis.
Provisions
The Continental Association immediately banned British tea and, starting December 1, 1774, all imports from Britain, Ireland, and the British West Indies. If the Intolerable Acts were not repealed by September 10, 1775, the colonies would also stop exporting goods to these regions. Article 2 specifically banned ships involved in the slave trade. The agreement also addressed the potential scarcity of goods, restricting merchants from price gouging. Local committees of inspection were established to monitor compliance, and violators were publicly ostracized. The Association promoted frugality, discouraging extravagance in clothing and even setting guidelines for simple funeral observances.
Enforcement
The Continental Association went into effect on December 1, 1774. Compliance was largely enforced through local committees, which were effective in most colonies except Georgia, where the need for British protection from Native Americans hindered participation. Public pressure played a significant role in enforcing the boycott, with newspapers and social networks shaming those who violated the agreement. In some cases, direct action was taken, such as in Annapolis, Maryland, where a merchant chose to burn his ship rather than face the consequences of importing British goods. In areas where enforcement was difficult, some counties enacted price ceilings to discourage smuggling.
Effects
The boycott caused a dramatic drop in trade with Britain, and by early 1775, the local committees of safety had become de facto revolutionary governments in many colonies. The Continental Association forced colonists to take sides, with Patriots supporting the boycott and Loyalists opposing it. In South Carolina, for example, Patriots dominated coastal areas, while Loyalists were more prevalent in the backcountry. The Association also led to the development of new governmental structures that supervised revolutionary activities.
Britain responded by passing the New England Restraining Act, which restricted the colonies' ability to trade with anyone except Britain and the British West Indies. This act, along with other punitive measures, only intensified the conflict, eventually leading to the outbreak of the Revolutionary War. Although the boycott ended with the war, the Continental Association's lasting impact was its demonstration of the colonies' ability to organize and act collectively in defense of their rights.
Legacy
The Continental Association is considered one of the first major steps toward the formation of the United States. In his first inaugural address in 1861, President Abraham Lincoln traced the origins of the Union to the Articles of Association, emphasizing the continuity between the Continental Association, the Declaration of Independence, and the Articles of Confederation. The Association represented the colonies' collective resolve to resist British oppression and laid the foundation for the political unity that would eventually lead to the establishment of the United States.
John Adams
October 30 [O.S. October 19] 1735 – July 4, 1826
Home:
Quincy, MA
Education:
Harvard University
Profession:
President, Vice President, Minister to the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, Delegate to Continental Congress from Massachusetts
Info:
Adams was born in 1735 in Braintree, Massachusetts, and pursued a career in law after graduating from Harvard. His opposition to British policies, like the Stamp Act, propelled him into the revolutionary movement. Notably, he defended British soldiers in the Boston Massacre trials, showcasing his commitment to the rule of law. His career was marked by his advocacy for independence and effective leadership in the Continental Congress.
Following his significant contributions to the founding of the United States, Adams spent over a decade in Europe as a diplomat, playing a critical role in securing Dutch recognition and loans, as well as helping negotiate the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Revolutionary War. His later years were spent in politics and diplomacy, culminating in his presidency, where he navigated complex international tensions and internal party disputes. Adams retired to Quincy, Massachusetts, where he witnessed his son, John Quincy Adams, ascend to the presidency.
John Adams, often called the "Atlas of American Independence," played a pivotal role in initiating the American Revolution through his writings and political activities. He helped draft the Declaration of Independence and was a key figure in its passage through the Continental Congress. Adams's influence extended beyond the revolution, as he later served as the first Vice President and second President of the United States.
Following his significant contributions to the founding of the United States, Adams spent over a decade in Europe as a diplomat, playing a critical role in securing Dutch recognition and loans, as well as helping negotiate the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Revolutionary War. His later years were spent in politics and diplomacy, culminating in his presidency, where he navigated complex international tensions and internal party disputes. Adams retired to Quincy, Massachusetts, where he witnessed his son, John Quincy Adams, ascend to the presidency.
John Adams, often called the "Atlas of American Independence," played a pivotal role in initiating the American Revolution through his writings and political activities. He helped draft the Declaration of Independence and was a key figure in its passage through the Continental Congress. Adams's influence extended beyond the revolution, as he later served as the first Vice President and second President of the United States.
John Adams by Gilbert Stuart c. 1800-1815
John Adams 2007
Samuel Adams
27 Sep 1722 – 2 Oct 1803
Home:
Boston, Massachusetts
Education:
Harvard University
Profession:
Governor of Massachusetts, Lt. Gov. of Mass., State Senator of Mass., Delegate to Continental Congress from Mass., Clerk of House of Representatives of Mass.
Info:
Samuel Adams, a key figure in the American Revolution, was born in Boston in 1722. Initially, he struggled in various jobs and faced financial difficulties but found his passion in politics, becoming a leader in Massachusetts's resistance against British control. His political activities and writings significantly shaped the early revolutionary movements.
Adams was instrumental in protesting against the Sugar and Stamp Acts and later the Townshend Acts, helping to organize resistance like the Boston Tea Party. His efforts contributed to the unity among the colonies against British policies, advocating for collective action through the creation of committees of correspondence and involvement in the Continental Congress.
Beyond his revolutionary contributions, Adams held various political roles in Massachusetts, serving as a state senator and governor. He remained influential in promoting republican values and governance until his death in 1803. Adams's legacy as a foundational American patriot is marked by his relentless advocacy for independence and democratic principles.
Adams was instrumental in protesting against the Sugar and Stamp Acts and later the Townshend Acts, helping to organize resistance like the Boston Tea Party. His efforts contributed to the unity among the colonies against British policies, advocating for collective action through the creation of committees of correspondence and involvement in the Continental Congress.
Beyond his revolutionary contributions, Adams held various political roles in Massachusetts, serving as a state senator and governor. He remained influential in promoting republican values and governance until his death in 1803. Adams's legacy as a foundational American patriot is marked by his relentless advocacy for independence and democratic principles.
Samuel Adams by John Singleton Copley
Samuel Adams 2007
John Alsop
1724 – 22 Nov 1794
Home:
New York, New York
Education:
Profession:
Politician, merchant
Info:
John Alsop Jr. (1724–1794) was an influential American merchant and politician who played a critical role in the early political life of New York City during the era of the American Revolution. Born in 1724 in New Windsor, in the Province of New York, he came from a family with deep colonial roots. His father, John Alsop Sr., was a lawyer primarily involved in real estate, and his mother, Abigail Sackett, was the daughter of Captain Joseph Sackett. On his father’s side, Alsop descended from Captain Richard Alsop and Hannah Underhill, part of a lineage that dated back to the earliest English settlers in the region. His ancestry also connected him to the Underhill and Feake families, including descendants of Governor John Winthrop of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
Alsop moved to New York City as a young man and, together with his younger brother Richard, entered the world of commerce. They established themselves as successful importers, specializing in cloth and dry goods. Over time, their business flourished, making the Alsop name synonymous with one of the great merchant houses of the city. This mercantile success afforded John Alsop the wealth and social standing that enabled him to become involved in civic affairs.
As his influence grew, Alsop was elected to represent New York County in the Province of New York Assembly. He also participated in important civic undertakings, helping to incorporate the New York Hospital Association and serving as its first governor from 1770 to 1784. By the mid-1770s, as tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain mounted, Alsop was drawn into the turbulent political sphere.
In 1774, when New York’s colonial assembly hesitated in responding to the Continental Congress, independent committees in each county chose delegates. Alsop was named a delegate to the First Continental Congress, serving alongside noted figures like John Jay and Philip Livingston. He signed the 1774 Continental Association, an agreement to boycott British goods—an act that demonstrated support for colonial rights despite personal business losses.
Though he was an active supporter of non-importation measures and a key figure in New York’s revolutionary Committees of Sixty, Alsop ultimately favored a peaceful resolution with Britain. As the Continental Congress moved toward declaring independence in 1776, he resigned his post rather than sign the Declaration of Independence. Nevertheless, he remained active in provisioning the Continental Army and supporting the cause in more moderate ways.
When British forces occupied New York, Alsop fled to Middletown, Connecticut, remaining there until the war’s conclusion. After the Revolution, he returned to help rebuild both his personal fortunes and the city’s commercial infrastructure. He served as president of the New York Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating his continued dedication to civic improvement.
In 1766, Alsop married Mary Frogat, with whom he had one daughter, Mary Alsop, who would later marry Rufus King, a Founding Father and U.S. Senator. John Alsop Jr. died on November 22, 1794, in Newtown, Queens County, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent merchant-patriot and an ancestor to several notable American figures. His remains are interred at Trinity Church Cemetery in Manhattan.
Alsop moved to New York City as a young man and, together with his younger brother Richard, entered the world of commerce. They established themselves as successful importers, specializing in cloth and dry goods. Over time, their business flourished, making the Alsop name synonymous with one of the great merchant houses of the city. This mercantile success afforded John Alsop the wealth and social standing that enabled him to become involved in civic affairs.
As his influence grew, Alsop was elected to represent New York County in the Province of New York Assembly. He also participated in important civic undertakings, helping to incorporate the New York Hospital Association and serving as its first governor from 1770 to 1784. By the mid-1770s, as tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain mounted, Alsop was drawn into the turbulent political sphere.
In 1774, when New York’s colonial assembly hesitated in responding to the Continental Congress, independent committees in each county chose delegates. Alsop was named a delegate to the First Continental Congress, serving alongside noted figures like John Jay and Philip Livingston. He signed the 1774 Continental Association, an agreement to boycott British goods—an act that demonstrated support for colonial rights despite personal business losses.
Though he was an active supporter of non-importation measures and a key figure in New York’s revolutionary Committees of Sixty, Alsop ultimately favored a peaceful resolution with Britain. As the Continental Congress moved toward declaring independence in 1776, he resigned his post rather than sign the Declaration of Independence. Nevertheless, he remained active in provisioning the Continental Army and supporting the cause in more moderate ways.
When British forces occupied New York, Alsop fled to Middletown, Connecticut, remaining there until the war’s conclusion. After the Revolution, he returned to help rebuild both his personal fortunes and the city’s commercial infrastructure. He served as president of the New York Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating his continued dedication to civic improvement.
In 1766, Alsop married Mary Frogat, with whom he had one daughter, Mary Alsop, who would later marry Rufus King, a Founding Father and U.S. Senator. John Alsop Jr. died on November 22, 1794, in Newtown, Queens County, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent merchant-patriot and an ancestor to several notable American figures. His remains are interred at Trinity Church Cemetery in Manhattan.
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John Alsop
Edward Biddle
1738 – 5 September 1779
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
Profession:
Lawyer
Info:
Edward Biddle (1738–1779) was an American soldier, lawyer, and political leader from Pennsylvania who actively shaped the early revolutionary era. Born into a time of rising colonial discontent, Biddle became one of the voices advocating for American rights in the face of British policies. Although the details of his early life are sparse, his marriage in 1761 to Elizabeth Ross—sister of George Ross, another influential patriot—helped connect him to prominent families already embedded in the colonial political landscape. Through these ties, and under the mentorship of George Ross, Biddle studied law and, by 1767, he had gained admission to the Pennsylvania bar. Soon afterward, he and Elizabeth settled in Reading, where he established a law practice that would serve as the foundation for his public career.
While Biddle and his wife never had children, they came from extensive families, and their relatives would become well-known figures. Betsy Ross, famous for the legendary first American flag, was married to a nephew of his wife. In later generations, Biddle’s own family line produced distinguished public figures including his nephew, Congressman Richard Biddle, and financier Nicholas Biddle, a central figure in early American banking.
Biddle’s entry into public life came in 1767, when he won election to the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly as a representative for Berks County. He served in this legislative body until its dissolution at the start of the Revolution. His capabilities and interests went beyond local governance: that same year, he joined the American Philosophical Society, reflecting a broader engagement with the intellectual currents of his time. As the political climate heated up, Biddle became more deeply involved in the radical Whig faction within Pennsylvania’s political scene. He was instrumental in shaping the colony’s response to British actions and guiding it toward a path of resistance and independence.
By 1774, the colony’s legislature was divided, especially regarding how to respond to escalating tensions with Great Britain. That year, Pennsylvania chose a delegation to the First Continental Congress consisting of both moderates and radicals. Biddle joined Thomas Mifflin, John Morton, and his brother-in-law George Ross among the more radical delegates. During the Congress, Biddle played a key role on the committee that drafted the Declaration of Rights and oversaw the printing of the Congress’s resolutions. The Continental Association, advocating non-importation of British goods, was renewed under his watchful eye.
Pennsylvania’s internal conflicts continued into 1775 when Governor John Penn sought to chart a conciliatory course with Britain. Biddle, however, stood firmly with the Whigs who, along with figures like John Dickinson, steered the Assembly toward supporting the actions of the Continental Congress instead of pursuing appeasement. His leadership was recognized when he was elected Speaker of the Assembly, replacing the moderate Joseph Galloway.
Over the course of the Revolution, Biddle’s health declined, and he eventually traveled to Maryland, where he died in Chatsworth, Baltimore County, on September 5, 1779. He was buried in St. Paul’s Churchyard in Baltimore. Although his life was relatively brief, Edward Biddle’s legal, political, and legislative work contributed significantly to Pennsylvania’s—and the nation’s—progress toward independence.
While Biddle and his wife never had children, they came from extensive families, and their relatives would become well-known figures. Betsy Ross, famous for the legendary first American flag, was married to a nephew of his wife. In later generations, Biddle’s own family line produced distinguished public figures including his nephew, Congressman Richard Biddle, and financier Nicholas Biddle, a central figure in early American banking.
Biddle’s entry into public life came in 1767, when he won election to the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly as a representative for Berks County. He served in this legislative body until its dissolution at the start of the Revolution. His capabilities and interests went beyond local governance: that same year, he joined the American Philosophical Society, reflecting a broader engagement with the intellectual currents of his time. As the political climate heated up, Biddle became more deeply involved in the radical Whig faction within Pennsylvania’s political scene. He was instrumental in shaping the colony’s response to British actions and guiding it toward a path of resistance and independence.
By 1774, the colony’s legislature was divided, especially regarding how to respond to escalating tensions with Great Britain. That year, Pennsylvania chose a delegation to the First Continental Congress consisting of both moderates and radicals. Biddle joined Thomas Mifflin, John Morton, and his brother-in-law George Ross among the more radical delegates. During the Congress, Biddle played a key role on the committee that drafted the Declaration of Rights and oversaw the printing of the Congress’s resolutions. The Continental Association, advocating non-importation of British goods, was renewed under his watchful eye.
Pennsylvania’s internal conflicts continued into 1775 when Governor John Penn sought to chart a conciliatory course with Britain. Biddle, however, stood firmly with the Whigs who, along with figures like John Dickinson, steered the Assembly toward supporting the actions of the Continental Congress instead of pursuing appeasement. His leadership was recognized when he was elected Speaker of the Assembly, replacing the moderate Joseph Galloway.
Over the course of the Revolution, Biddle’s health declined, and he eventually traveled to Maryland, where he died in Chatsworth, Baltimore County, on September 5, 1779. He was buried in St. Paul’s Churchyard in Baltimore. Although his life was relatively brief, Edward Biddle’s legal, political, and legislative work contributed significantly to Pennsylvania’s—and the nation’s—progress toward independence.
No Image
Richard Bland
6 May 1710 – 26 Oct 1776
Home:
Jordan's Point, VA
Education:
College of William & Mary and Edinburgh University
Profession:
Planter, Lawyer and Politician
Info:
Richard Bland (1710–1776) was a prominent American Founding Father, planter, lawyer, and politician from Virginia. Born on May 6, 1710, he likely entered the world either at his family’s main plantation at Jordan’s Point along the James River or at their residence in Williamsburg. Both parents hailed from the First Families of Virginia, ensuring Bland grew up within a powerful network of influential colonists. When he was just shy of ten, both parents died, leaving Bland and his siblings under the guardianship of uncles William and Richard Randolph. This early environment shaped Bland’s future as a thoughtful scholar and public servant.
Bland received a solid education for his time. After his formative years of home study and guardianship, he attended the College of William & Mary, one of the premier institutions in the colony. Seeking further intellectual stimulation, he continued his studies in Scotland at Edinburgh University. He was admitted to the Virginia bar in 1746 but never practiced law publicly. Instead, he used his legal knowledge as a firm grounding for his work in political life and scholarly writing.
Upon reaching adulthood, Bland inherited his father’s Jordan Point plantation and other parcels of land, managing them with enslaved labor. Although later recognized as an early critic of slavery’s principles, he remained part of the system that sustained Virginia’s plantation economy.
Bland’s true mark on history lies in his lengthy political career and intellectual contributions. Elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1742, he served continuously for over three decades until the American Revolution disrupted the colonial government. During this period, he became a prominent figure, often working quietly behind the scenes. He excelled in committee work, particularly in drafting legislation and negotiating laws, and earned a reputation as one of the most influential figures in the assembly’s last quarter century. His close cousins, Peyton Randolph and Jane Randolph Jefferson (mother of Thomas Jefferson), helped create a network of family alliances that influenced Virginia’s political landscape. Bland’s mentorship of his younger cousin Thomas Jefferson would bear fruit as Jefferson rose to national prominence.
Bland’s written works played a significant role in shaping colonial thought. During the Parson’s Cause controversy (1759–1760), he penned a pamphlet opposing higher clerical pay and the appointment of a bishop. In 1766, he published his most influential piece, An Inquiry into the Rights of the British Colonies, where he argued against Parliament’s authority to tax colonists without their consent. His reasoning contributed to the emerging ethos of “no taxation without representation” and earned praise from Jefferson for its clear-sighted analysis.
In the turbulent 1770s, Bland represented Virginia in the First Continental Congress, signing the Continental Association in 1774. Although he declined to serve in the Second Continental Congress after August 1775 due to age and health, he continued to shape Virginia’s future. He helped draft Virginia’s first state constitution in mid-1776 and was named to the new House of Delegates that October.
Bland collapsed and died in Williamsburg on October 26, 1776. He was buried at Jordan’s Point. His lasting legacy includes a rich intellectual heritage, a formative influence on Jefferson, and the honor of having Virginia’s Bland County and Richard Bland College bear his name.
Bland received a solid education for his time. After his formative years of home study and guardianship, he attended the College of William & Mary, one of the premier institutions in the colony. Seeking further intellectual stimulation, he continued his studies in Scotland at Edinburgh University. He was admitted to the Virginia bar in 1746 but never practiced law publicly. Instead, he used his legal knowledge as a firm grounding for his work in political life and scholarly writing.
Upon reaching adulthood, Bland inherited his father’s Jordan Point plantation and other parcels of land, managing them with enslaved labor. Although later recognized as an early critic of slavery’s principles, he remained part of the system that sustained Virginia’s plantation economy.
Bland’s true mark on history lies in his lengthy political career and intellectual contributions. Elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1742, he served continuously for over three decades until the American Revolution disrupted the colonial government. During this period, he became a prominent figure, often working quietly behind the scenes. He excelled in committee work, particularly in drafting legislation and negotiating laws, and earned a reputation as one of the most influential figures in the assembly’s last quarter century. His close cousins, Peyton Randolph and Jane Randolph Jefferson (mother of Thomas Jefferson), helped create a network of family alliances that influenced Virginia’s political landscape. Bland’s mentorship of his younger cousin Thomas Jefferson would bear fruit as Jefferson rose to national prominence.
Bland’s written works played a significant role in shaping colonial thought. During the Parson’s Cause controversy (1759–1760), he penned a pamphlet opposing higher clerical pay and the appointment of a bishop. In 1766, he published his most influential piece, An Inquiry into the Rights of the British Colonies, where he argued against Parliament’s authority to tax colonists without their consent. His reasoning contributed to the emerging ethos of “no taxation without representation” and earned praise from Jefferson for its clear-sighted analysis.
In the turbulent 1770s, Bland represented Virginia in the First Continental Congress, signing the Continental Association in 1774. Although he declined to serve in the Second Continental Congress after August 1775 due to age and health, he continued to shape Virginia’s future. He helped draft Virginia’s first state constitution in mid-1776 and was named to the new House of Delegates that October.
Bland collapsed and died in Williamsburg on October 26, 1776. He was buried at Jordan’s Point. His lasting legacy includes a rich intellectual heritage, a formative influence on Jefferson, and the honor of having Virginia’s Bland County and Richard Bland College bear his name.
Richard Bland
Simon Boerum
29 Feb 1724 – 11 July 1775
Home:
Brooklyn, New York
Education:
Dutch school in Flatbush
Profession:
Farmer, Miller and Politician
Info:
Simon Boerum (1724–1775) was an influential colonial-era farmer, miller, and political leader from Long Island, New York, during a period marked by growing tensions with Great Britain. Born on February 29, 1724, he came from a family of Dutch ancestry who had settled in the region when it was still part of New Netherland. His parents, William Jacob Boerum and Rachel Bloom Boerum, farmed in the town of New Lots in Kings County (an area that would later become part of Brooklyn). Baptized into the Dutch Reformed Church on March 8, young Boerum benefited from the Dutch cultural and religious traditions of the community. He received his early education at a local Dutch school in Flatbush, preparing him for both the practical demands of farm life and the evolving world of colonial politics.
As a young man, Boerum embraced a life closely tied to the land. He farmed and operated a mill in Flatbush, taking advantage of the fertile soil and the area’s need for local milling services. In 1748, he purchased a home and garden at the intersection of what are now Fulton and Hoyt Streets in downtown Brooklyn. That same year, on April 30, he married Maria Schenck, with whom he shared this home for the remainder of their lives. Their marriage reflected the interwoven families and networks that characterized the Dutch communities of Long Island and played a role in Boerum’s local prominence.
Boerum’s public career began in 1750, when Governor George Clinton appointed him as county clerk for Kings County. He would hold this position for the rest of his life, evidence of the trust and stability he represented in local governance. His capabilities and steady leadership led to a seat in the Province of New York Assembly after 1761. As political tensions between Great Britain and the American colonies intensified over taxation, representation, and governance, Boerum found himself at the center of increasingly complex political debates.
In 1774, when the New York Assembly failed to reach consensus on sending delegates to the newly proposed Continental Congress, Kings County selected Boerum to represent their interests. On October 1, 1774, the Continental Congress formally added him to New York’s delegation. Once in Philadelphia, Boerum proved sympathetic to more radical measures. He supported the Continental Association, a non-importation agreement aimed at pressuring Britain through economic means. Boerum also assisted in defeating the Galloway Plan, a more moderate proposal that sought reconciliation with England rather than moving toward independence.
The tumult of the revolutionary period continued into 1775. The New York Assembly, hostile to the resolutions of the First Continental Congress, was abruptly adjourned. In response, Boerum was elected to the revolutionary New York Provincial Congress, representing a shift away from traditional colonial governance toward a revolutionary structure. That body re-appointed him to the Continental Congress, signifying his importance and reliability as a leader. However, failing health intervened, and Boerum returned home from Philadelphia.
He died at his Brooklyn residence on July 11, 1775, his life cut short as the crisis that would lead to the American Revolution intensified. Initially buried in the Dutch Burying Ground in New Lots, Boerum and his wife were later reinterred in Green-Wood Cemetery in 1848, ensuring his memory endures in the place he called home.
As a young man, Boerum embraced a life closely tied to the land. He farmed and operated a mill in Flatbush, taking advantage of the fertile soil and the area’s need for local milling services. In 1748, he purchased a home and garden at the intersection of what are now Fulton and Hoyt Streets in downtown Brooklyn. That same year, on April 30, he married Maria Schenck, with whom he shared this home for the remainder of their lives. Their marriage reflected the interwoven families and networks that characterized the Dutch communities of Long Island and played a role in Boerum’s local prominence.
Boerum’s public career began in 1750, when Governor George Clinton appointed him as county clerk for Kings County. He would hold this position for the rest of his life, evidence of the trust and stability he represented in local governance. His capabilities and steady leadership led to a seat in the Province of New York Assembly after 1761. As political tensions between Great Britain and the American colonies intensified over taxation, representation, and governance, Boerum found himself at the center of increasingly complex political debates.
In 1774, when the New York Assembly failed to reach consensus on sending delegates to the newly proposed Continental Congress, Kings County selected Boerum to represent their interests. On October 1, 1774, the Continental Congress formally added him to New York’s delegation. Once in Philadelphia, Boerum proved sympathetic to more radical measures. He supported the Continental Association, a non-importation agreement aimed at pressuring Britain through economic means. Boerum also assisted in defeating the Galloway Plan, a more moderate proposal that sought reconciliation with England rather than moving toward independence.
The tumult of the revolutionary period continued into 1775. The New York Assembly, hostile to the resolutions of the First Continental Congress, was abruptly adjourned. In response, Boerum was elected to the revolutionary New York Provincial Congress, representing a shift away from traditional colonial governance toward a revolutionary structure. That body re-appointed him to the Continental Congress, signifying his importance and reliability as a leader. However, failing health intervened, and Boerum returned home from Philadelphia.
He died at his Brooklyn residence on July 11, 1775, his life cut short as the crisis that would lead to the American Revolution intensified. Initially buried in the Dutch Burying Ground in New Lots, Boerum and his wife were later reinterred in Green-Wood Cemetery in 1848, ensuring his memory endures in the place he called home.
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Richard Caswell
3 Aug 1729 – 10 Nov 1789
Home:
Kinston, NC
Education:
Profession:
Governor, Statesman, Lawyer, and Military Leader
Info:
Richard Caswell (1729–1789) was a prominent American statesman, lawyer, and military leader who played a crucial role in shaping North Carolina’s early governance and its participation in the Revolutionary War. Born on August 3, 1729, in what is now Baltimore County, Maryland, Caswell’s family relocated to New Bern, North Carolina, during his youth. He benefited from an upbringing that emphasized public service, and by 1750, he was deputy surveyor for the province. Caswell grew into a man of diverse talents and enterprises, working as a lawyer, farmer, land speculator, tanner, and holding leadership roles in the Freemasons.
A dedicated public servant, Caswell spent 17 years as a member of the North Carolina House of Burgesses. While in office, he introduced the bill that led to the establishment of “Kingston,” later renamed Kinston during the Revolution. Caswell’s leadership on the home front intersected with military affairs during the Regulator Movement, notably at the Battle of Alamance in 1771, where he commanded the right wing of Governor William Tryon’s forces.
In the emerging struggle with Britain, Caswell was an influential figure. As a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, he signed the Continental Association, marking him as a supporter of colonial rights. He served again in 1775 before dedicating himself more fully to military roles in the Southern theater of the Revolution. Appointed to command the New Bern minutemen in 1776, he led the Patriot forces to victory at the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge, a turning point in securing North Carolina for the American cause. Though later faced with defeat at Camden in 1780—owing largely to the collapse of neighboring militia—Caswell’s overall service bolstered the state’s revolutionary effort. Commissioned successively as colonel, brigadier general, and major general of militia, he remained involved in military leadership until the war’s conclusion.
Caswell’s political achievements are equally significant. He presided over the North Carolina Provincial Congress that drafted the state’s first constitution in 1776. Named acting governor as the Congress adjourned, he then became the state’s first governor under the new constitution, serving from 1777 to 1780. Prevented by law from serving more than three consecutive one-year terms, he returned to public life afterward as comptroller and as a state senator. In 1785, he was elected governor again, serving until 1787. Though chosen as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, Caswell did not attend. At his death in 1789, he was serving as Speaker of the North Carolina Senate, illustrating a lifelong commitment to guiding the state’s public policy.
Caswell’s family life was marked by two marriages—first to Mary Mackilwean, then to Sarah Heritage—resulting in multiple children, several of whom served in the military. His sons William and Richard both fought in the Revolution, continuing their father’s legacy of service. Caswell died on November 10, 1789, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and was likely buried near his Kinston home, where a memorial now stands. Caswell County, Fort Caswell, and educational provisions in the state’s early constitution all reflect his enduring influence.
A dedicated public servant, Caswell spent 17 years as a member of the North Carolina House of Burgesses. While in office, he introduced the bill that led to the establishment of “Kingston,” later renamed Kinston during the Revolution. Caswell’s leadership on the home front intersected with military affairs during the Regulator Movement, notably at the Battle of Alamance in 1771, where he commanded the right wing of Governor William Tryon’s forces.
In the emerging struggle with Britain, Caswell was an influential figure. As a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, he signed the Continental Association, marking him as a supporter of colonial rights. He served again in 1775 before dedicating himself more fully to military roles in the Southern theater of the Revolution. Appointed to command the New Bern minutemen in 1776, he led the Patriot forces to victory at the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge, a turning point in securing North Carolina for the American cause. Though later faced with defeat at Camden in 1780—owing largely to the collapse of neighboring militia—Caswell’s overall service bolstered the state’s revolutionary effort. Commissioned successively as colonel, brigadier general, and major general of militia, he remained involved in military leadership until the war’s conclusion.
Caswell’s political achievements are equally significant. He presided over the North Carolina Provincial Congress that drafted the state’s first constitution in 1776. Named acting governor as the Congress adjourned, he then became the state’s first governor under the new constitution, serving from 1777 to 1780. Prevented by law from serving more than three consecutive one-year terms, he returned to public life afterward as comptroller and as a state senator. In 1785, he was elected governor again, serving until 1787. Though chosen as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, Caswell did not attend. At his death in 1789, he was serving as Speaker of the North Carolina Senate, illustrating a lifelong commitment to guiding the state’s public policy.
Caswell’s family life was marked by two marriages—first to Mary Mackilwean, then to Sarah Heritage—resulting in multiple children, several of whom served in the military. His sons William and Richard both fought in the Revolution, continuing their father’s legacy of service. Caswell died on November 10, 1789, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and was likely buried near his Kinston home, where a memorial now stands. Caswell County, Fort Caswell, and educational provisions in the state’s early constitution all reflect his enduring influence.
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Richard Caswell
Samuel Chase
17 Apr 1741 – 19 Jun 1811
Home:
Baltimore, MD
Education:
Studied Law
Profession:
Associate Justice, Judge
Info:
Samuel Chase (1741–1811) was an American Founding Father, distinguished jurist, and leading figure in the country’s early political and legal affairs. Born on April 17, 1741, near Princess Anne, Maryland, he was the son of Reverend Thomas Chase, an Anglican clergyman who had immigrated from England. Educated primarily at home, Chase studied law under John Hall in Annapolis, Maryland, and by 1761 had launched a thriving legal practice in that city. Known for his passionate and at times combative personality—earning him the nickname “Old Bacon Face”—Chase quickly positioned himself as a formidable attorney and political operator.
By 1764, Chase had entered the Maryland General Assembly, a body in which he served for two decades. An early advocate for colonial rights, he forcefully opposed British taxation and joined with fellow patriots such as William Paca to found a local Sons of Liberty chapter. His growing political influence gained him a seat in the Continental Congress, where he represented Maryland, signed the Continental Association in 1774, and later affixed his name to the Declaration of Independence in 1776. These acts placed him firmly in the pantheon of Founding Fathers.
As the new nation took shape, Chase’s legal acumen and strong personality made him a key figure in both state and federal government. He was a fervent Anti-Federalist during the debates over the U.S. Constitution’s ratification in Maryland, though the state eventually voted to approve the document. After serving as chief justice on the District Criminal Court in Baltimore and the Maryland General Court, Chase’s stature caught the attention of President George Washington. In 1796, Washington appointed him as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court. He took his seat in 1796 and would serve until his death, helping shape the young nation’s jurisprudence at a time when the contours of federal authority were still untested.
Chase’s judicial career, however, became fraught with controversy. A staunch Federalist, he was outspoken against what he saw as the excesses of the Jeffersonian Republicans. His partisan commentary on the bench—particularly critical remarks about legislation favored by the Jefferson administration—triggered a dramatic political clash. In 1804, the House of Representatives impeached him on charges that he allowed his political biases to influence his judicial decisions. This was the first and only impeachment of a U.S. Supreme Court justice to date. Tried before the Senate in 1805, Chase was acquitted, thus setting a crucial precedent for judicial independence. His acquittal affirmed that judges could not be removed simply for their political beliefs or judicial philosophy—an important reinforcement of the separation of powers and the integrity of the judiciary.
Despite this tumultuous chapter, Chase remained on the Supreme Court until his death on June 19, 1811. He was buried in Baltimore’s Old Saint Paul’s Cemetery. While his legacy is complicated by his ownership of enslaved people and his often fiery temperament, Samuel Chase’s contributions to the Revolution, his role in shaping legal precedent, and his defense of judicial independence mark him as a significant figure in early American history.
By 1764, Chase had entered the Maryland General Assembly, a body in which he served for two decades. An early advocate for colonial rights, he forcefully opposed British taxation and joined with fellow patriots such as William Paca to found a local Sons of Liberty chapter. His growing political influence gained him a seat in the Continental Congress, where he represented Maryland, signed the Continental Association in 1774, and later affixed his name to the Declaration of Independence in 1776. These acts placed him firmly in the pantheon of Founding Fathers.
As the new nation took shape, Chase’s legal acumen and strong personality made him a key figure in both state and federal government. He was a fervent Anti-Federalist during the debates over the U.S. Constitution’s ratification in Maryland, though the state eventually voted to approve the document. After serving as chief justice on the District Criminal Court in Baltimore and the Maryland General Court, Chase’s stature caught the attention of President George Washington. In 1796, Washington appointed him as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court. He took his seat in 1796 and would serve until his death, helping shape the young nation’s jurisprudence at a time when the contours of federal authority were still untested.
Chase’s judicial career, however, became fraught with controversy. A staunch Federalist, he was outspoken against what he saw as the excesses of the Jeffersonian Republicans. His partisan commentary on the bench—particularly critical remarks about legislation favored by the Jefferson administration—triggered a dramatic political clash. In 1804, the House of Representatives impeached him on charges that he allowed his political biases to influence his judicial decisions. This was the first and only impeachment of a U.S. Supreme Court justice to date. Tried before the Senate in 1805, Chase was acquitted, thus setting a crucial precedent for judicial independence. His acquittal affirmed that judges could not be removed simply for their political beliefs or judicial philosophy—an important reinforcement of the separation of powers and the integrity of the judiciary.
Despite this tumultuous chapter, Chase remained on the Supreme Court until his death on June 19, 1811. He was buried in Baltimore’s Old Saint Paul’s Cemetery. While his legacy is complicated by his ownership of enslaved people and his often fiery temperament, Samuel Chase’s contributions to the Revolution, his role in shaping legal precedent, and his defense of judicial independence mark him as a significant figure in early American history.
Samuel Chase by John Beale Bordley
The gate is locked at Old Saint Paul's Cemetary. Contact the office at (410) 685-3404.
Stephen Crane
1709 – 1 July 1780
Home:
Elizabeth, NJ
Education:
Profession:
Colonial Politician and Civic Leader
Info:
Stephen Crane (1709 – July 1, 1780) was a prominent American colonial politician and civic leader from Elizabethtown, in what is now Elizabeth, New Jersey. Born into a respected family during the early 18th century, Crane’s life spanned the turbulent years leading up to and during the American Revolution. Over the course of his career, he would serve in various significant roles, from local sheriff to member of the Continental Congress, helping to shape the political landscape in both his home colony and the emerging nation.
From an early stage, Crane was involved in public affairs. He began as sheriff of Essex County and soon became active in the local town committee. His reputation for fairness and capability led to his appointment as a judge of the court of common pleas. By the 1760s, Crane’s steady rise in colonial government was evident: between 1766 and 1773, he served in the colony’s General Assembly, even becoming its speaker in 1771. His influence did not stop there; he also held the office of mayor of Elizabethtown. Such positions reflected not only his leadership qualities but also the trust placed in him by his community and peers.
As tensions escalated between the American colonies and Great Britain, Crane emerged as a committed advocate for colonial rights. He deeply opposed the increasing taxes and restrictions imposed by the British Parliament, a stance that led to direct involvement in the larger political struggle. Alongside Matthias Hatfield, Crane is recorded as having traveled to England, where he did not hesitate to voice his protest against unjust taxation. This experience underscored Crane’s growing role in the movement toward independence.
From 1774 to 1776, Stephen Crane represented New Jersey in the Continental Congress, placing him among the foremost leaders of the era. Alongside other delegates, he signed the Continental Association, a pivotal agreement that established a unified boycott of British goods. Although he did not return for subsequent sessions due to urgent political divisions within New Jersey—specifically the longstanding regional tensions between East and West Jersey—Crane’s early contributions to the Continental Congress helped set the stage for future American unity and governance.
Throughout the Revolutionary War period, Crane remained active in New Jersey politics, holding various public offices and participating in the state’s Provincial Congress, General Assembly, and Legislative Council. His roles were critical in guiding New Jersey through the complexities of the conflict.
Tragically, Crane’s life ended violently and prematurely. During the British invasion of northern New Jersey in 1780, Hessian soldiers passed through Elizabethtown on their way to the Battle of Springfield. Crane, caught in their path, was bayoneted. He succumbed to his wounds on July 1, 1780, and was laid to rest in the First Presbyterian Church cemetery in Elizabeth, alongside his wife and father.
Stephen Crane’s legacy extended through his descendants, many of whom served in the nation’s military and civic affairs. Notably, his lineage included Jonathan Townley Crane and the celebrated American author Stephen Crane, who achieved fame for his novel The Red Badge of Courage. In this way, Stephen Crane’s impact resonated far beyond his own lifetime, weaving his name into the broader tapestry of American history and culture.
From an early stage, Crane was involved in public affairs. He began as sheriff of Essex County and soon became active in the local town committee. His reputation for fairness and capability led to his appointment as a judge of the court of common pleas. By the 1760s, Crane’s steady rise in colonial government was evident: between 1766 and 1773, he served in the colony’s General Assembly, even becoming its speaker in 1771. His influence did not stop there; he also held the office of mayor of Elizabethtown. Such positions reflected not only his leadership qualities but also the trust placed in him by his community and peers.
As tensions escalated between the American colonies and Great Britain, Crane emerged as a committed advocate for colonial rights. He deeply opposed the increasing taxes and restrictions imposed by the British Parliament, a stance that led to direct involvement in the larger political struggle. Alongside Matthias Hatfield, Crane is recorded as having traveled to England, where he did not hesitate to voice his protest against unjust taxation. This experience underscored Crane’s growing role in the movement toward independence.
From 1774 to 1776, Stephen Crane represented New Jersey in the Continental Congress, placing him among the foremost leaders of the era. Alongside other delegates, he signed the Continental Association, a pivotal agreement that established a unified boycott of British goods. Although he did not return for subsequent sessions due to urgent political divisions within New Jersey—specifically the longstanding regional tensions between East and West Jersey—Crane’s early contributions to the Continental Congress helped set the stage for future American unity and governance.
Throughout the Revolutionary War period, Crane remained active in New Jersey politics, holding various public offices and participating in the state’s Provincial Congress, General Assembly, and Legislative Council. His roles were critical in guiding New Jersey through the complexities of the conflict.
Tragically, Crane’s life ended violently and prematurely. During the British invasion of northern New Jersey in 1780, Hessian soldiers passed through Elizabethtown on their way to the Battle of Springfield. Crane, caught in their path, was bayoneted. He succumbed to his wounds on July 1, 1780, and was laid to rest in the First Presbyterian Church cemetery in Elizabeth, alongside his wife and father.
Stephen Crane’s legacy extended through his descendants, many of whom served in the nation’s military and civic affairs. Notably, his lineage included Jonathan Townley Crane and the celebrated American author Stephen Crane, who achieved fame for his novel The Red Badge of Courage. In this way, Stephen Crane’s impact resonated far beyond his own lifetime, weaving his name into the broader tapestry of American history and culture.
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Stephen Crane
Thomas Cushing III
24 Mar 1725 – 28 Feb 1788
Home:
Boston, MA
Education:
Harvard
Profession:
Political Figure, Merchant, and Lawyer
Info:
Thomas Cushing III (1725–1788) was a prominent Massachusetts political figure, merchant, and lawyer who played a significant role in the tumultuous years leading up to American independence and the early formation of the state’s government. Born on March 24, 1725, into a well-established Boston family, Cushing enjoyed the advantages of wealth and education. He graduated from Harvard in 1744, studied law, and joined his family’s prosperous merchant business. His marriage to Deborah Fletcher in 1747 produced five children, cementing family ties that would bolster his local prominence.
Cushing’s political career began at the local level when he won election as a Boston selectman in 1753, a position he held until 1763. He advanced to the colonial assembly (General Court) in 1761, where he quickly emerged as a steady, moderate voice. In 1766, after the governor rejected the assembly’s preferred candidate, James Otis, Cushing was chosen as a compromise speaker of the house. He would serve in that office until the British governor dissolved the assembly in 1774. As speaker, his signature appeared on numerous petitions and protests against British policies, leading authorities in London to view him as a radical troublemaker.
Although not as fiery as some of his colleagues—he tended toward moderation—Cushing was closely associated with key Patriot leaders. He formed a productive political alliance with John Hancock, contributing financially and often working behind the scenes, which enabled Hancock to remain the more visible leader. Cushing’s correspondence with Benjamin Franklin, who represented the assembly’s interests in London, highlighted his preference for calm negotiation and attempts at reconciliation, even as tensions escalated.
Cushing represented Massachusetts in the First and Second Continental Congresses (1774–1775). He signed the Continental Association, which organized a boycott of British goods. However, his reluctance to fully embrace independence cost him politically. In late 1775, as sentiment for breaking with Britain intensified, he lost his seat in Congress to Elbridge Gerry, a vocal supporter of independence.
Despite this setback, Cushing remained active in Massachusetts politics. During the Revolutionary War, he served as a commissary, provisioning both American and allied French troops—a role he and other merchants used to advance their business interests. He was also involved in attempts to stabilize the faltering wartime economy, joining other leaders in efforts to control runaway inflation, albeit without much success.
With the establishment of Massachusetts’ state government in 1780, Cushing continued his public service. He briefly served as the state senate’s first president before being elected as Massachusetts’ first lieutenant governor that same year. He served under his old ally John Hancock for several terms. When Hancock resigned in 1785, Cushing served briefly as acting governor until James Bowdoin assumed the office. Although he was frequently depicted by opponents as overshadowed by Hancock, Cushing’s steady presence and managerial capabilities were vital to the state’s early governance.
Thomas Cushing died in office on February 28, 1788, and was buried in Boston’s Granary Burying Ground. His legacy endures in the town of Cushing, Maine, which bears his name, and in the memory of his moderate, pragmatic approach to the challenges of the Revolutionary era.
Cushing’s political career began at the local level when he won election as a Boston selectman in 1753, a position he held until 1763. He advanced to the colonial assembly (General Court) in 1761, where he quickly emerged as a steady, moderate voice. In 1766, after the governor rejected the assembly’s preferred candidate, James Otis, Cushing was chosen as a compromise speaker of the house. He would serve in that office until the British governor dissolved the assembly in 1774. As speaker, his signature appeared on numerous petitions and protests against British policies, leading authorities in London to view him as a radical troublemaker.
Although not as fiery as some of his colleagues—he tended toward moderation—Cushing was closely associated with key Patriot leaders. He formed a productive political alliance with John Hancock, contributing financially and often working behind the scenes, which enabled Hancock to remain the more visible leader. Cushing’s correspondence with Benjamin Franklin, who represented the assembly’s interests in London, highlighted his preference for calm negotiation and attempts at reconciliation, even as tensions escalated.
Cushing represented Massachusetts in the First and Second Continental Congresses (1774–1775). He signed the Continental Association, which organized a boycott of British goods. However, his reluctance to fully embrace independence cost him politically. In late 1775, as sentiment for breaking with Britain intensified, he lost his seat in Congress to Elbridge Gerry, a vocal supporter of independence.
Despite this setback, Cushing remained active in Massachusetts politics. During the Revolutionary War, he served as a commissary, provisioning both American and allied French troops—a role he and other merchants used to advance their business interests. He was also involved in attempts to stabilize the faltering wartime economy, joining other leaders in efforts to control runaway inflation, albeit without much success.
With the establishment of Massachusetts’ state government in 1780, Cushing continued his public service. He briefly served as the state senate’s first president before being elected as Massachusetts’ first lieutenant governor that same year. He served under his old ally John Hancock for several terms. When Hancock resigned in 1785, Cushing served briefly as acting governor until James Bowdoin assumed the office. Although he was frequently depicted by opponents as overshadowed by Hancock, Cushing’s steady presence and managerial capabilities were vital to the state’s early governance.
Thomas Cushing died in office on February 28, 1788, and was buried in Boston’s Granary Burying Ground. His legacy endures in the town of Cushing, Maine, which bears his name, and in the memory of his moderate, pragmatic approach to the challenges of the Revolutionary era.
Thomas Cushing III
John De Hart
25 July 1727 – 1 June 1795
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Education:
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John De Hart was born on July 25, 1727, in Elizabethtown, now Elizabeth, New Jersey, to Jacob and Abigail (Crane) De Hart. He pursued a career in law and was admitted to the bar in 1770. De Hart married Sarah Dagworthy, with whom he had eight children: John, Jacob, Matthias, Stephen, Sarah, Abigail, Jane, and Louisa. His prominence rose rapidly, and in 1774, he represented New Jersey at the First Continental Congress, where he supported the non-importation agreements aimed at pressuring Britain, yet favored reconciliation. He continued as a delegate in the Second Continental Congress in 1775 but resigned on November 13 due to growing disagreements over independence from Great Britain. The resignation was accepted by the New Jersey General Assembly on November 22.
In 1776, De Hart actively contributed to establishing an independent government in New Jersey. He participated in the state convention and served on the committee that drafted the New Jersey State Constitution in June of that year. On September 4, 1776, he was appointed to the New Jersey Supreme Court, but was later replaced by Governor William Livingston in February 1777 due to his failure to attend court sessions regularly. Despite this setback, De Hart continued to practice law successfully. His final public role was serving as Mayor of Elizabeth, elected in November 1789, a position he held until his death. John De Hart passed away at his Elizabeth home on June 1, 1795, and was buried in St. John's Episcopal Churchyard. His legacy includes the historic De Hart House and familial ties to General Winfield Scott through his granddaughter Maria D. Mayo.
In 1776, De Hart actively contributed to establishing an independent government in New Jersey. He participated in the state convention and served on the committee that drafted the New Jersey State Constitution in June of that year. On September 4, 1776, he was appointed to the New Jersey Supreme Court, but was later replaced by Governor William Livingston in February 1777 due to his failure to attend court sessions regularly. Despite this setback, De Hart continued to practice law successfully. His final public role was serving as Mayor of Elizabeth, elected in November 1789, a position he held until his death. John De Hart passed away at his Elizabeth home on June 1, 1795, and was buried in St. John's Episcopal Churchyard. His legacy includes the historic De Hart House and familial ties to General Winfield Scott through his granddaughter Maria D. Mayo.
Silas Deane
4 Jan 1738 – 23 Sept 1789
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Education:
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Info:
Silas Deane was born on January 4, 1738, in Groton, Connecticut. Educated at Yale, where he graduated in 1758, Deane briefly practiced law before moving to Wethersfield, Connecticut, to build a successful career as a merchant. He married twice, first to Mehitable (Nott) Webb in 1763, with whom he had one son, Jesse. After Mehitable’s death in 1767, Deane married Elizabeth (Saltonstall) Evards in 1770. Elizabeth passed away in 1777 while Deane was abroad. Politically active, he served in the Connecticut House of Representatives beginning in 1768 and was appointed to the Wethersfield Committee of Correspondence in 1769. From 1774 to 1776, he served as a Connecticut delegate to the Continental Congress, signing the Continental Association and aiding in establishing the U.S. Navy.
In March 1776, Deane was appointed as the first American envoy to France, tasked with obtaining crucial financial and military support. He successfully negotiated the 1778 Treaty of Alliance with France alongside Benjamin Franklin and Arthur Lee. Deane recruited notable foreign officers such as Lafayette, von Steuben, and Pulaski, significantly bolstering the American military effort. However, controversy arose over his financial dealings, exacerbated by rival Arthur Lee's accusations. Congress recalled Deane in December 1777 and subsequently charged him with financial impropriety. Unable to adequately defend himself without his records, Deane faced further scandal when intercepted letters suggested pessimism about the American cause, branding him a traitor by some.
Post-war, Deane lived in Europe, primarily in Ghent and London, attempting unsuccessfully to rebuild his fortune and clear his reputation. He authored defenses of his wartime actions but fell into poverty. Deane died under mysterious circumstances aboard the ship Boston Packet on September 23, 1789, possibly poisoned. His descendants eventually secured financial restitution from Congress in 1841, rectifying previous injustices against him.
In March 1776, Deane was appointed as the first American envoy to France, tasked with obtaining crucial financial and military support. He successfully negotiated the 1778 Treaty of Alliance with France alongside Benjamin Franklin and Arthur Lee. Deane recruited notable foreign officers such as Lafayette, von Steuben, and Pulaski, significantly bolstering the American military effort. However, controversy arose over his financial dealings, exacerbated by rival Arthur Lee's accusations. Congress recalled Deane in December 1777 and subsequently charged him with financial impropriety. Unable to adequately defend himself without his records, Deane faced further scandal when intercepted letters suggested pessimism about the American cause, branding him a traitor by some.
Post-war, Deane lived in Europe, primarily in Ghent and London, attempting unsuccessfully to rebuild his fortune and clear his reputation. He authored defenses of his wartime actions but fell into poverty. Deane died under mysterious circumstances aboard the ship Boston Packet on September 23, 1789, possibly poisoned. His descendants eventually secured financial restitution from Congress in 1841, rectifying previous injustices against him.
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John Dickinson
13 Nov 1732 – 14 Feb 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.
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.
John Dickinson
John Dickinson Placque at Wilmington Friends Meeting House
Wilmington Friends Meeting House 2024
John Dickinson 2024
Wilmington Friends Meeting House 2024
James Duane
6 Feb 1733 – 1 Feb 1797
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James Duane was born on February 6, 1733, in New York City to wealthy parents Anthony Duane and Althea Ketaltas. After his mother's death in 1736 and father's in 1747, he became a ward of Robert Livingston, 3rd Lord of Livingston Manor. He studied law under James Alexander, was admitted to the bar in 1754, and began practicing law in New York City. In 1762, he became clerk of New York’s Chancery Court and served briefly as acting attorney general in 1767. His successful legal practice made him wealthy, owning extensive property in Manhattan and an estate, Duanesburg, in Schenectady County, New York. Duane married Mary Livingston in 1759, strengthening ties to influential political circles.
Politically conservative yet opposed to British taxation policies, Duane was selected as a delegate from New York to the First Continental Congress in 1774, where he supported reconciliation efforts with Britain. Despite initial hesitancy, he later supported independence, serving as a delegate to the Second Continental Congress from 1775 to 1781, although he missed signing the Declaration of Independence due to obligations in New York. Duane signed the Continental Association and the Articles of Confederation, playing key roles in revolutionary governance. He was instrumental in forming New York’s early revolutionary committees and drafting the state constitution in 1776.
After the war, Duane served as the first post-colonial Mayor of New York City from 1784 to 1789, guiding the city through its post-war reconstruction. He was also a New York State Senator, a founder of the New York Manumission Society advocating against slavery, and in 1789, was appointed by President George Washington as the first judge of the United States District Court for New York, serving until his resignation due to ill health in 1794. James Duane died on February 1, 1797, at his estate in Duanesburg.
Politically conservative yet opposed to British taxation policies, Duane was selected as a delegate from New York to the First Continental Congress in 1774, where he supported reconciliation efforts with Britain. Despite initial hesitancy, he later supported independence, serving as a delegate to the Second Continental Congress from 1775 to 1781, although he missed signing the Declaration of Independence due to obligations in New York. Duane signed the Continental Association and the Articles of Confederation, playing key roles in revolutionary governance. He was instrumental in forming New York’s early revolutionary committees and drafting the state constitution in 1776.
After the war, Duane served as the first post-colonial Mayor of New York City from 1784 to 1789, guiding the city through its post-war reconstruction. He was also a New York State Senator, a founder of the New York Manumission Society advocating against slavery, and in 1789, was appointed by President George Washington as the first judge of the United States District Court for New York, serving until his resignation due to ill health in 1794. James Duane died on February 1, 1797, at his estate in Duanesburg.
James Duane
Eliphalet Dyer
14 Sept 1721 – 13 May 1807
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Eliphalet Dyer was born on September 14, 1721, in Windham, Connecticut. He attended Yale College, graduating in 1740, and after studying law, was admitted to the bar in 1746. Dyer quickly entered public service as a militia officer, justice of the peace, and member of the colonial assembly starting in 1747. He actively participated in land speculation projects, notably involving the Susquehanna and Wyoming Valley regions. During the French and Indian War, he served as lieutenant colonel, playing a key role in the 1755 expedition capturing Crown Point. In 1758, he led Connecticut’s Third Provincial Regiment in support of British operations in Canada.
In 1763, Dyer traveled to London as an agent for the Susquehanna Land Company to secure title rights to Wyoming lands, although unsuccessfully. As colonial tensions rose, he represented Connecticut at the Stamp Act Congress in 1765, an important early act of colonial resistance. In 1766, he was appointed as a justice to Connecticut’s Superior Court, serving until 1793, including as chief justice from 1789. As revolutionary fervor escalated, Dyer was active on Connecticut’s Committee of Safety and was elected as a delegate to the Continental Congress, attending sessions intermittently between 1774 and 1783, and signing the Continental Association. Fellow delegate John Adams described him as earnest and honorable, though somewhat verbose.
Dyer retired from public duties in 1793, settling back into private life in Windham. He passed away at his home on May 13, 1807, and was buried in Windham Cemetery. His daughter Amelia married Joseph Trumbull, another delegate elected to Congress, further linking Dyer to prominent revolutionary-era families in Connecticut.
In 1763, Dyer traveled to London as an agent for the Susquehanna Land Company to secure title rights to Wyoming lands, although unsuccessfully. As colonial tensions rose, he represented Connecticut at the Stamp Act Congress in 1765, an important early act of colonial resistance. In 1766, he was appointed as a justice to Connecticut’s Superior Court, serving until 1793, including as chief justice from 1789. As revolutionary fervor escalated, Dyer was active on Connecticut’s Committee of Safety and was elected as a delegate to the Continental Congress, attending sessions intermittently between 1774 and 1783, and signing the Continental Association. Fellow delegate John Adams described him as earnest and honorable, though somewhat verbose.
Dyer retired from public duties in 1793, settling back into private life in Windham. He passed away at his home on May 13, 1807, and was buried in Windham Cemetery. His daughter Amelia married Joseph Trumbull, another delegate elected to Congress, further linking Dyer to prominent revolutionary-era families in Connecticut.
Eliphalet Dyer
Eliphalet Dyer
Gen. William Floyd
17 Dec 1734 – 4 Aug 1821
Home:
Westernville, NY
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Profession:
Farmer, Soldier, Member of Continental Congress, Member of Congress, State Senator, New York
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William Floyd, born in 1734 on Long Island, New York, was a significant figure during the American Revolution, despite his primarily local influence. He managed his family's large estate from a young age and became deeply involved in local politics and militia before joining the Continental Congress. During the war, British forces occupied his home, and his family endured years of hardship and displacement.
Floyd's post-war life continued in public service, including terms in the New York State Senate and the U.S. Congress. He supported the Federal Constitution and held several presidential elector positions. Later, he ventured into western land investments, which led him to relocate and develop new properties in central New York.
In his later years, Floyd settled on his new lands, founding a community and continuing his involvement in local affairs until his death in 1821. His life journey from a colonial landowner to a national political figure and pioneering settler showcases the breadth of personal and professional challenges faced by the signers of the Declaration.
Floyd's post-war life continued in public service, including terms in the New York State Senate and the U.S. Congress. He supported the Federal Constitution and held several presidential elector positions. Later, he ventured into western land investments, which led him to relocate and develop new properties in central New York.
In his later years, Floyd settled on his new lands, founding a community and continuing his involvement in local affairs until his death in 1821. His life journey from a colonial landowner to a national political figure and pioneering settler showcases the breadth of personal and professional challenges faced by the signers of the Declaration.
Gen. William Floyd by Ralph Earl
The Gen. William Floyd House is a historic house on Main Street at Gifford Hill Road in Westernville, New York. Built in 1803, it was the last home of Founding Father William Floyd (1734–1821), a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and a driving force in the settlement of the area. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1971. The house is a private residence, and is not normally open to the public.
Nathaniel Folsom
28 Sept 1726 – 26 May 1790
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Nathaniel Folsom was born on September 28, 1726, into a prominent family in Exeter, New Hampshire. After his father's death in 1740, Folsom began working for a merchant and eventually became successful in the timber industry, operating sawmills and investing in commerce. In 1761, he partnered with distant cousins Joseph and Josiah Gilman, forming Folsom, Gilman & Gilman, a firm active in shipbuilding, general merchandise, and import-export business. Although the partnership ended in 1768, Folsom continued in foreign trade and lumber for the remainder of his life. He married Dorothy Smith, with whom he had seven children; after her death, he married Mary Fisher and had another daughter.
Folsom also pursued a distinguished military career. During the French and Indian War, he led a company in the 1755 Crown Point expedition, significantly contributing to the capture of the French commander, Baron Dieskau, at the Battle of Lake George. Rising to colonel in New Hampshire's Fourth Regiment, Folsom played a pivotal role in December 1774 by escorting cannons seized during the raid on Fort William and Mary safely to Durham. At the Revolutionary War’s onset, the New Hampshire Provincial Congress appointed him brigadier general of state militia forces, later promoting him to major general, responsible for recruiting and training throughout the conflict.
Politically, Folsom was deeply involved in revolutionary activities. As a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, he signed the Continental Association. He served again in the Continental Congress between 1777 and 1780, simultaneously holding influential local roles, including membership in New Hampshire’s Committee of Safety and presidency of the 1783 state constitutional convention. Folsom served as chief judge of Rockingham County from 1783 until his death on May 26, 1790. He was buried in Exeter's Winter Street Cemetery.
Folsom also pursued a distinguished military career. During the French and Indian War, he led a company in the 1755 Crown Point expedition, significantly contributing to the capture of the French commander, Baron Dieskau, at the Battle of Lake George. Rising to colonel in New Hampshire's Fourth Regiment, Folsom played a pivotal role in December 1774 by escorting cannons seized during the raid on Fort William and Mary safely to Durham. At the Revolutionary War’s onset, the New Hampshire Provincial Congress appointed him brigadier general of state militia forces, later promoting him to major general, responsible for recruiting and training throughout the conflict.
Politically, Folsom was deeply involved in revolutionary activities. As a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, he signed the Continental Association. He served again in the Continental Congress between 1777 and 1780, simultaneously holding influential local roles, including membership in New Hampshire’s Committee of Safety and presidency of the 1783 state constitutional convention. Folsom served as chief judge of Rockingham County from 1783 until his death on May 26, 1790. He was buried in Exeter's Winter Street Cemetery.
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Christopher Gadsden
16 Feb 1724 – 28 Aug 1805
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Christopher Gadsden was born on February 16, 1724, in Charleston, South Carolina, into a family of English ancestry. After early education near Bristol, England, he returned to America in 1740 and apprenticed in a Philadelphia counting house. He inherited a substantial fortune when his father died in 1741. Gadsden briefly served as a purser on a British warship during King George’s War (1745–46), then became a successful merchant in Charleston. By the 1750s, he had established a major commercial enterprise, owning stores, merchant vessels, plantations, and eventually constructing Gadsden’s Wharf—one of the busiest ports for the transatlantic slave trade. Despite his later revolutionary credentials, Gadsden was a slaveholder and profited from the enslaved labor system central to South Carolina’s economy.
In 1759, Gadsden led a militia company against the Cherokee and, in 1757, entered politics through election to the Commons House of Assembly. His disputes with royal governors sharpened his advocacy for colonial rights. As a delegate to the 1765 Stamp Act Congress, he firmly opposed Parliamentary authority over the colonies and forged a friendship with Samuel Adams. Known for his fiery rhetoric, he earned the nickname “the Sam Adams of the South.” Gadsden later helped found the Charleston Sons of Liberty and was elected to both the First and Second Continental Congresses, signing the Continental Association and designing the iconic “Don’t Tread on Me” flag.
In 1776, he became a brigadier general of South Carolina forces and helped fortify Charleston. Captured during the British siege in 1780, he was imprisoned in solitary confinement in Florida for 42 weeks. After the war, he returned to politics, participating in the 1788 state convention that ratified the U.S. Constitution. Gadsden died on August 28, 1805, in Charleston. His legacy lives on through the Gadsden flag, a symbol of American liberty.
In 1759, Gadsden led a militia company against the Cherokee and, in 1757, entered politics through election to the Commons House of Assembly. His disputes with royal governors sharpened his advocacy for colonial rights. As a delegate to the 1765 Stamp Act Congress, he firmly opposed Parliamentary authority over the colonies and forged a friendship with Samuel Adams. Known for his fiery rhetoric, he earned the nickname “the Sam Adams of the South.” Gadsden later helped found the Charleston Sons of Liberty and was elected to both the First and Second Continental Congresses, signing the Continental Association and designing the iconic “Don’t Tread on Me” flag.
In 1776, he became a brigadier general of South Carolina forces and helped fortify Charleston. Captured during the British siege in 1780, he was imprisoned in solitary confinement in Florida for 42 weeks. After the war, he returned to politics, participating in the 1788 state convention that ratified the U.S. Constitution. Gadsden died on August 28, 1805, in Charleston. His legacy lives on through the Gadsden flag, a symbol of American liberty.
Christopher Gadsden
Joseph Galloway
1731 — 29 Aug 1803
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Joseph Galloway was born in 1731 near West River, Maryland, to a wealthy Quaker family. In 1740, he moved with his father to Pennsylvania and received a liberal education. Studying law in Philadelphia, Galloway developed a lasting friendship with Benjamin Franklin. Admitted to the bar, he became an influential attorney and married Grace Growdon in 1753, aligning himself with one of Pennsylvania’s wealthiest families. Despite their social prominence, the marriage was reportedly unhappy. Galloway’s political career began early: he was elected to the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly in 1756 and served until 1774, including eight years as speaker. He joined the American Philosophical Society in 1768 and became vice president under Franklin.
Galloway was a moderate loyalist who opposed independence but favored reform. He proposed a Plan of Union at the First Continental Congress in 1774, seeking a permanent colonial legislature under the British Crown. Though narrowly defeated, the plan was later published by Galloway in 1775. Although he signed the Continental Association, he increasingly distanced himself from revolutionary activity. After refusing election to the Second Congress in 1775, he left politics and ultimately fled to British-occupied New York in 1776. As an advisor to General William Howe, he provided intelligence, helped plan military operations, and governed Philadelphia during the British occupation in 1777–78.
When the British evacuated Philadelphia in 1778, Galloway escaped to England with his daughter. He was convicted of treason by Pennsylvania in absentia, and his estates, including Trevose Manor, were seized. In Britain, Galloway became a leading voice for American Loyalists and testified against the Howe brothers in Parliament. He spent his final years in religious study and died a widower on August 29, 1803, in Watford, Hertfordshire, never returning to America.
Galloway was a moderate loyalist who opposed independence but favored reform. He proposed a Plan of Union at the First Continental Congress in 1774, seeking a permanent colonial legislature under the British Crown. Though narrowly defeated, the plan was later published by Galloway in 1775. Although he signed the Continental Association, he increasingly distanced himself from revolutionary activity. After refusing election to the Second Congress in 1775, he left politics and ultimately fled to British-occupied New York in 1776. As an advisor to General William Howe, he provided intelligence, helped plan military operations, and governed Philadelphia during the British occupation in 1777–78.
When the British evacuated Philadelphia in 1778, Galloway escaped to England with his daughter. He was convicted of treason by Pennsylvania in absentia, and his estates, including Trevose Manor, were seized. In Britain, Galloway became a leading voice for American Loyalists and testified against the Howe brothers in Parliament. He spent his final years in religious study and died a widower on August 29, 1803, in Watford, Hertfordshire, never returning to America.
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Joseph Galloway
Benjamin Harrison, V
13 Dec 1730 – 24 Apr 1791
Home:
Charles City, VA
Education:
Attended William and Mary College
Profession:
Farmer, Elected to Virginia House of Burgesses, Member of the Continental
Congress, Reelected to House of Burgesses, Selected as Speaker, Elected Governor of Virginia
Info:
Benjamin Harrison V was born on April 5, 1726, at Berkeley Plantation in Charles City County, Virginia, the eldest son of Benjamin Harrison IV and Anne Carter. He descended from a long line of influential Virginians engaged in colonial politics. After studying briefly at the College of William & Mary, Harrison inherited Berkeley and other holdings when his father was killed by lightning in 1745. He gained wealth through plantations, a grist mill, and fisheries, and like many planters of the time, he enslaved numerous individuals. In 1748, he married Elizabeth Bassett; they had eight children, including William Henry Harrison, who would become the 9th President of the United States.
Harrison's political career began early; he was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses in the early 1750s, representing both Surry and Charles City Counties over time. Throughout the 1760s and early 1770s, he protested British taxation, helped lead Virginia’s resistance to the Townshend Acts, and signed both the Virginia Association and Continental Association. As a delegate to the First and Second Continental Congresses, he chaired the Committee of the Whole and presided over the final debates on the Declaration of Independence, which he signed on July 4, 1776. Known for his humor and blunt speech, he worked closely with John Hancock but clashed with John and Samuel Adams.
During the war, Harrison returned to Virginia politics, serving multiple terms in the House of Delegates and as Speaker. He became the fifth Governor of Virginia (1781–1784) during a financially strained period. He opposed ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1788, citing the absence of a bill of rights. Harrison died on April 24, 1791. He was the father of a U.S. President and great-grandfather of another, leaving a prominent legacy in American history.
Harrison's political career began early; he was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses in the early 1750s, representing both Surry and Charles City Counties over time. Throughout the 1760s and early 1770s, he protested British taxation, helped lead Virginia’s resistance to the Townshend Acts, and signed both the Virginia Association and Continental Association. As a delegate to the First and Second Continental Congresses, he chaired the Committee of the Whole and presided over the final debates on the Declaration of Independence, which he signed on July 4, 1776. Known for his humor and blunt speech, he worked closely with John Hancock but clashed with John and Samuel Adams.
During the war, Harrison returned to Virginia politics, serving multiple terms in the House of Delegates and as Speaker. He became the fifth Governor of Virginia (1781–1784) during a financially strained period. He opposed ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1788, citing the absence of a bill of rights. Harrison died on April 24, 1791. He was the father of a U.S. President and great-grandfather of another, leaving a prominent legacy in American history.
Benjamin Harrison, V
The mansion on the Berkeley Plantation built by Benjamin Harrison IV in 1726.
Patrick Henry
29 May 1736 – 6 June 1799
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Patrick Henry was born on May 29, 1736, in Hanover County, Virginia. Raised on a family farm called Studley, he was educated at home by his father, John Henry, a Scottish immigrant and graduate of King's College, Aberdeen. Though raised Anglican, Henry was heavily influenced by the Great Awakening and the emotional preaching of Presbyterian ministers like Samuel Davies. This exposure shaped his future oratorical style. At age 15, Henry worked as a store clerk, then co-ran a failed general store with his brother. In 1754, he married Sarah Shelton, receiving Pine Slash Farm and six slaves from her father. However, the farm and their tavern venture faltered, leading Henry to pursue law. Studying independently, he earned his license in 1760 and soon became known for courtroom success, particularly in the “Parson’s Cause,” where he denounced royal interference in colonial law, branding King George III a tyrant.
Henry’s political career advanced rapidly after the Parson’s Cause. In 1765, he entered the Virginia House of Burgesses and introduced the Virginia Stamp Act Resolves, challenging Parliament’s right to tax the colonies. His impassioned rhetoric—possibly including the line "If this be treason, make the most of it!"—galvanized colonial resistance. Though controversial, he emerged as a prominent champion of colonial rights. He spent much of the 1760s and early 1770s practicing law, managing land holdings, and advocating for frontier development. Henry also opposed slavery in principle, though he remained a lifelong slaveholder. By 1774, he was appointed to the First Continental Congress and forcefully declared himself not a Virginian, but an American, arguing for unity among the colonies.
In March 1775, at the Second Virginia Convention, Henry gave his most famous speech, declaring, “Give me liberty or give me death!” He soon led militia in protest against the seizure of gunpowder by the royal governor. Elected as Virginia’s first post-independence governor in 1776, Henry served five non-consecutive one-year terms. He supported George Rogers Clark’s western expedition and sided with Washington during the Conway Cabal. After the war, he returned to state politics, opposing the U.S. Constitution due to its strong central government and lack of a Bill of Rights. Though eventually reconciled to Federalism, he declined national office offers and died at Red Hill, Virginia, on June 6, 1799, leaving behind a legacy as one of America’s most powerful revolutionary voices.
Henry’s political career advanced rapidly after the Parson’s Cause. In 1765, he entered the Virginia House of Burgesses and introduced the Virginia Stamp Act Resolves, challenging Parliament’s right to tax the colonies. His impassioned rhetoric—possibly including the line "If this be treason, make the most of it!"—galvanized colonial resistance. Though controversial, he emerged as a prominent champion of colonial rights. He spent much of the 1760s and early 1770s practicing law, managing land holdings, and advocating for frontier development. Henry also opposed slavery in principle, though he remained a lifelong slaveholder. By 1774, he was appointed to the First Continental Congress and forcefully declared himself not a Virginian, but an American, arguing for unity among the colonies.
In March 1775, at the Second Virginia Convention, Henry gave his most famous speech, declaring, “Give me liberty or give me death!” He soon led militia in protest against the seizure of gunpowder by the royal governor. Elected as Virginia’s first post-independence governor in 1776, Henry served five non-consecutive one-year terms. He supported George Rogers Clark’s western expedition and sided with Washington during the Conway Cabal. After the war, he returned to state politics, opposing the U.S. Constitution due to its strong central government and lack of a Bill of Rights. Though eventually reconciled to Federalism, he declined national office offers and died at Red Hill, Virginia, on June 6, 1799, leaving behind a legacy as one of America’s most powerful revolutionary voices.
James Kinsey
James Kinsey
James Kinsey
James Kinsey
Patrick Henry
Joseph Hewes
23 Jan 1730 – 10 Nov 1779
Home:
New Jersey
Education:
Princeton College
Profession:
Member of the Colonial Assembly of North Carolina, Member of the Committee
of Correspondence, member of new Provincial Assembly, Elected to Continental Congress, Defacto first
Secretary of the Navy
Info:
oseph Hewes was born on July 9, 1730, in Princeton, New Jersey, to Quaker parents. Though not formally educated at the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University), he likely attended the grammar school affiliated with the Stonybrook Quaker Meeting. In the early 1750s, Hewes moved to Philadelphia, apprenticing with his cousin’s husband, Joseph Ogden, a merchant. Through this work, he traveled widely, including to Edenton, North Carolina. Finding opportunity there, he moved to Edenton in 1754 and co-founded the firm "Blount, Hewes and Co.," becoming one of the region’s leading merchants. Hewes’s wealth, generosity, and business acumen earned him widespread respect, though he remained unmarried following the tragic death of a woman he nearly wed.
In 1763, Hewes formed a new partnership, "Hewes and Smith," expanding his mercantile and shipbuilding operations. His investments included warehouses, a rope walk, and shipyards vital to the shipping industry. His public service began in 1757 as a justice of the peace, and in 1760 he was elected to the North Carolina Assembly, where he served until 1775. Although he was born a Quaker, his religious affiliations evolved; he served as a vestryman at St. Paul's Anglican Church in Edenton and may have held deist beliefs. His close friend James Iredell admired Hewes's intellect and character, though he lamented Hewes’s religious skepticism.
Hewes played a central role in North Carolina’s revolutionary movement. He served in the First Continental Congress in 1774 and helped draft and sign the Continental Association. During the Second Continental Congress (1775–1776), he was instrumental in military planning and became a founding architect of the U.S. Navy. His committee work was vital, and he personally helped secure a naval commission for John Paul Jones. Though not an early advocate for independence, Hewes gradually shifted, recognizing its necessity. He voted for and signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, then briefly returned to Edenton for rest.
Though criticized by some for alleged absenteeism, Hewes remained a dedicated public servant. In 1779, he returned to Congress despite poor health. His final months were marked by intense illness, and he resigned shortly before dying in Philadelphia on November 10, 1779. Congress honored him with a public funeral. Buried at Christ Church Burial Ground with Masonic honors, Joseph Hewes was remembered as industrious, honorable, and a vital contributor to American independence.
In 1763, Hewes formed a new partnership, "Hewes and Smith," expanding his mercantile and shipbuilding operations. His investments included warehouses, a rope walk, and shipyards vital to the shipping industry. His public service began in 1757 as a justice of the peace, and in 1760 he was elected to the North Carolina Assembly, where he served until 1775. Although he was born a Quaker, his religious affiliations evolved; he served as a vestryman at St. Paul's Anglican Church in Edenton and may have held deist beliefs. His close friend James Iredell admired Hewes's intellect and character, though he lamented Hewes’s religious skepticism.
Hewes played a central role in North Carolina’s revolutionary movement. He served in the First Continental Congress in 1774 and helped draft and sign the Continental Association. During the Second Continental Congress (1775–1776), he was instrumental in military planning and became a founding architect of the U.S. Navy. His committee work was vital, and he personally helped secure a naval commission for John Paul Jones. Though not an early advocate for independence, Hewes gradually shifted, recognizing its necessity. He voted for and signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, then briefly returned to Edenton for rest.
Though criticized by some for alleged absenteeism, Hewes remained a dedicated public servant. In 1779, he returned to Congress despite poor health. His final months were marked by intense illness, and he resigned shortly before dying in Philadelphia on November 10, 1779. Congress honored him with a public funeral. Buried at Christ Church Burial Ground with Masonic honors, Joseph Hewes was remembered as industrious, honorable, and a vital contributor to American independence.
Joseph Hewes
Joseph Hewes and George Ross
William Hooper
28 Jun 1742 – 14 Oct 1790
Home:
Hillsborough, NC
Education:
Harvard College
Profession:
Elected to General Assembly of North Carolina, Member of Continental
Congress, Judge of the Federal Court
Info:
William Hooper, born on June 28, 1742, in Boston, Massachusetts, was a Founding Father, lawyer, and signer of the Declaration of Independence. He was the eldest of five children born to Scottish minister William Hooper and Mary Dennie, the daughter of a Massachusetts merchant. His father, hoping he would enter the clergy, enrolled him in Boston Latin School and later Harvard University. Hooper graduated with honors in 1760 but chose to pursue law instead of religion. He studied under prominent attorney James Otis until 1764, then left Boston to avoid the saturated legal market.
Hooper relocated to Wilmington, North Carolina, in 1764 and quickly built a respected law practice. He represented wealthy farmers and colonial officials, eventually marrying Anne Clark, the daughter of a local sheriff. The couple had three children. By 1770, Hooper had become deputy Attorney General of North Carolina. He initially supported British authority and helped suppress the Regulator uprising. His firm loyalty to Governor Tryon and his opposition to popular unrest caused him to be viewed with suspicion by emerging Patriots.
Despite his early Loyalist associations, Hooper gradually aligned with the Patriot cause. Elected to the General Assembly in 1773, he opposed British interference in local courts and expressed growing support for independence in correspondence with allies. He helped organize a new government after the royal assembly dissolved and was appointed to North Carolina’s Committee of Correspondence. In 1774, he attended the First Continental Congress and later signed the Declaration of Independence, although he missed the vote due to obligations in North Carolina.
After resigning from Congress in 1777, Hooper returned to North Carolina. The British sought to capture him during the war, and his properties were destroyed, leaving him and his family destitute. He survived illness and hardship with the help of friends and eventually resettled in Hillsborough. There, he continued working in the state assembly until 1783.
In post-war life, Hooper’s support for Federalist policies and leniency toward Loyalists diminished his popularity. Appointed a federal judge in 1786, he remained active in public affairs until illness overtook him. He died in Hillsborough on October 14, 1790, at age 48. His remains were later moved to Guilford Courthouse National Military Park in honor of his contributions to American independence.
Hooper relocated to Wilmington, North Carolina, in 1764 and quickly built a respected law practice. He represented wealthy farmers and colonial officials, eventually marrying Anne Clark, the daughter of a local sheriff. The couple had three children. By 1770, Hooper had become deputy Attorney General of North Carolina. He initially supported British authority and helped suppress the Regulator uprising. His firm loyalty to Governor Tryon and his opposition to popular unrest caused him to be viewed with suspicion by emerging Patriots.
Despite his early Loyalist associations, Hooper gradually aligned with the Patriot cause. Elected to the General Assembly in 1773, he opposed British interference in local courts and expressed growing support for independence in correspondence with allies. He helped organize a new government after the royal assembly dissolved and was appointed to North Carolina’s Committee of Correspondence. In 1774, he attended the First Continental Congress and later signed the Declaration of Independence, although he missed the vote due to obligations in North Carolina.
After resigning from Congress in 1777, Hooper returned to North Carolina. The British sought to capture him during the war, and his properties were destroyed, leaving him and his family destitute. He survived illness and hardship with the help of friends and eventually resettled in Hillsborough. There, he continued working in the state assembly until 1783.
In post-war life, Hooper’s support for Federalist policies and leniency toward Loyalists diminished his popularity. Appointed a federal judge in 1786, he remained active in public affairs until illness overtook him. He died in Hillsborough on October 14, 1790, at age 48. His remains were later moved to Guilford Courthouse National Military Park in honor of his contributions to American independence.
William Hooper
Monument and burial site of John Penn and William Hooper at the
Guilford
Courthouse Battle Grounds.
Courthouse Battle Grounds.
Note: Joseph Hewes is buried in Philidephia, PA
Stephen Hopkins
7 Mar 1707 – 13 Jul 1785
Home:
Providence, RI
Education:
Profession:
Surveyor, Speaker of the Rhode Island Assembly, Delegate to the Albany
Convention, Member of the Continental Congress, Member of Rhode Island Legislature
Info:
Stephen Hopkins, born on March 7, 1707, in Providence, Rhode Island, was a Founding Father, governor, chief justice, and a signer of both the Continental Association and Declaration of Independence. Descended from early settlers and raised in the rural region of Chopmist Hill, Hopkins was largely self-educated. He became a passionate reader and gained skills in surveying, astronomy, and science. As a young man, he earned respect for his intellect and civic involvement, beginning his public service at age 23 as a justice of the peace in Scituate.
Hopkins went on to hold numerous civic positions, including town clerk, deputy, and speaker of the House of Deputies. He moved to Providence in 1742, expanding his career into shipping, privateering, and iron manufacturing. He became a partner in the Hope Furnace, producing pig iron and cannons for the Revolutionary War. In 1755, he was elected governor and served multiple terms, alternating with rival Samuel Ward due to political disputes over currency policy.
One of Hopkins’s most notable achievements came in 1764 with the publication of The Rights of Colonies Examined, a widely read pamphlet challenging British taxation. His leadership was further solidified by his role in the 1772 Gaspee Affair, where he helped protect colonists from British retribution following the burning of a British revenue ship. His support of colonial liberties positioned him as a key figure in the growing independence movement.
In 1774, Hopkins was chosen as a delegate to the First Continental Congress. Despite a debilitating palsy, he contributed significantly, especially to naval affairs. As a member of the Second Continental Congress, Hopkins signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, famously stating, “My hand trembles, but my heart does not.” Poor health forced his resignation later that year, though he remained active in Rhode Island politics until 1779.
Hopkins was also instrumental in founding Brown University, serving as its first chancellor. A complex figure, he was a slaveholder who later freed at least one enslaved man and introduced anti-slave trade legislation. He died in Providence on July 13, 1785, at age 78. His legacy remains deeply tied to Rhode Island’s early governance and the American Revolution.
Hopkins went on to hold numerous civic positions, including town clerk, deputy, and speaker of the House of Deputies. He moved to Providence in 1742, expanding his career into shipping, privateering, and iron manufacturing. He became a partner in the Hope Furnace, producing pig iron and cannons for the Revolutionary War. In 1755, he was elected governor and served multiple terms, alternating with rival Samuel Ward due to political disputes over currency policy.
One of Hopkins’s most notable achievements came in 1764 with the publication of The Rights of Colonies Examined, a widely read pamphlet challenging British taxation. His leadership was further solidified by his role in the 1772 Gaspee Affair, where he helped protect colonists from British retribution following the burning of a British revenue ship. His support of colonial liberties positioned him as a key figure in the growing independence movement.
In 1774, Hopkins was chosen as a delegate to the First Continental Congress. Despite a debilitating palsy, he contributed significantly, especially to naval affairs. As a member of the Second Continental Congress, Hopkins signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, famously stating, “My hand trembles, but my heart does not.” Poor health forced his resignation later that year, though he remained active in Rhode Island politics until 1779.
Hopkins was also instrumental in founding Brown University, serving as its first chancellor. A complex figure, he was a slaveholder who later freed at least one enslaved man and introduced anti-slave trade legislation. He died in Providence on July 13, 1785, at age 78. His legacy remains deeply tied to Rhode Island’s early governance and the American Revolution.
Charles Humphreys
19 Sept 1714 – 11 Mar 1786
Home:
Haverford, Pennsylvania
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Charles Humphreys, born on September 19, 1714, in Haverford, Pennsylvania, was a delegate to the First Continental Congress and a signatory to the Continental Association. A miller and fuller by trade, Humphreys became a prosperous businessman in colonial Pennsylvania, operating mills that relied on the labor of enslaved people. His participation in early American politics came at a pivotal moment in the buildup to the Revolutionary War.
The son of Daniel Humphreys and Hannah Wynne—herself the daughter of Dr. Thomas Wynne—Charles was part of a prominent Pennsylvania family. Along with his sisters, Elizabeth and Rebecca, he enslaved multiple Black individuals during their adult lives. A 1780 record identifies several of the people they held in bondage, including adult men Tom and Caesar; women Judy, Nany, Nancy, and Dolly; and children Alice, Fanny, and Tommey. Humphreys’s economic success was in part built upon the forced labor of these individuals.
In 1774, Humphreys was appointed to represent Pennsylvania at the First Continental Congress. There, he joined other colonial leaders in signing the Continental Association, which aimed to establish a boycott of British goods in response to oppressive policies from Parliament. However, when the Second Continental Congress took up the question of declaring independence from Britain in 1776, Humphreys opposed the Declaration of Independence. He believed that its adoption would lead inevitably to war, which conflicted with his Quaker religious convictions emphasizing peace. As a result, he voted against independence and soon withdrew from the Congress.
Though he did not support the war, Humphreys remained sympathetic to the Patriot cause. He criticized the actions of the British government and supported reforms, even if he was unwilling to endorse open rebellion. In 1782, he became the owner of a grist and fulling mill, further expanding his business operations. His life reflects the complexities of colonial American society—an individual supportive of reform and resistance but restrained by religious beliefs and simultaneously complicit in the institution of slavery.
Charles Humphreys died in his hometown of Haverford, Pennsylvania, on March 11, 1786. His legacy is a mixture of political engagement, religious conviction, and participation in the systems of his time.
The son of Daniel Humphreys and Hannah Wynne—herself the daughter of Dr. Thomas Wynne—Charles was part of a prominent Pennsylvania family. Along with his sisters, Elizabeth and Rebecca, he enslaved multiple Black individuals during their adult lives. A 1780 record identifies several of the people they held in bondage, including adult men Tom and Caesar; women Judy, Nany, Nancy, and Dolly; and children Alice, Fanny, and Tommey. Humphreys’s economic success was in part built upon the forced labor of these individuals.
In 1774, Humphreys was appointed to represent Pennsylvania at the First Continental Congress. There, he joined other colonial leaders in signing the Continental Association, which aimed to establish a boycott of British goods in response to oppressive policies from Parliament. However, when the Second Continental Congress took up the question of declaring independence from Britain in 1776, Humphreys opposed the Declaration of Independence. He believed that its adoption would lead inevitably to war, which conflicted with his Quaker religious convictions emphasizing peace. As a result, he voted against independence and soon withdrew from the Congress.
Though he did not support the war, Humphreys remained sympathetic to the Patriot cause. He criticized the actions of the British government and supported reforms, even if he was unwilling to endorse open rebellion. In 1782, he became the owner of a grist and fulling mill, further expanding his business operations. His life reflects the complexities of colonial American society—an individual supportive of reform and resistance but restrained by religious beliefs and simultaneously complicit in the institution of slavery.
Charles Humphreys died in his hometown of Haverford, Pennsylvania, on March 11, 1786. His legacy is a mixture of political engagement, religious conviction, and participation in the systems of his time.
Charles Humphreys
John Jay
23 Dec 1745 – 17 May 1829
Home:
"Bedford House," Bedford, New York
Education:
King’s College (now Columbia University)
Profession:
Lawyer, Politician, Member of the New York Committee of Correspondence, Delegate to the Continental Congress, President of the Continental Congress, Chief Justice of New York (1777–1778)Minister Plenipotentiary to Spain, Peace Commissioner and signatory of the Treaty of Paris, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, First Chief Justice of the United States, Governor of New York and Negotiator of the Jay Treaty with Great Britain
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John Jay was a foundational figure in American history, playing critical roles as a diplomat, jurist, and statesman during the Revolutionary War and the early years of the United States. Born on December 12, 1745, in New York City, Jay hailed from a prominent and wealthy family, which allowed him access to an excellent education. He attended a boarding school in New Rochelle, New York, before graduating from King’s College (now Columbia University) in 1764. His education prepared him for a career in law, and by 1768, Jay was admitted to the bar, quickly establishing himself as a successful and respected lawyer in New York.
Jay’s entry into politics came through his involvement in the New York committee of correspondence, a group that played a vital role in organizing colonial resistance to British policies in the years leading up to the American Revolution. His skills and leadership were soon recognized, leading to his election as a delegate to the Continental Congress, where he served from 1774 to 1776 and again from 1778 to 1779.
In 1777, during his time in the Continental Congress, Jay was recalled to New York to assist in drafting the state’s first constitution, a critical task as the colonies began to see themselves as independent states. Following this, he was appointed the first Chief Justice of the New York State Supreme Court in May 1777. Jay's tenure as Chief Justice was short-lived, as he resigned in December 1778 to assume the presidency of the Continental Congress, a position he held from December 10, 1778, to September 28, 1779. Although the role was largely ceremonial by that time, it was a period during which Jay’s leadership and diplomatic skills were increasingly called upon.
Jay's diplomatic career began in earnest when he was appointed Minister Plenipotentiary to Spain on September 27, 1779. His mission was to secure financial and military support for the American Revolution, although his efforts in Spain met with limited success. Nonetheless, Jay’s diplomatic acumen was recognized, and in 1781, he was appointed as one of the American ministers to negotiate peace with Great Britain. His work culminated in the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which officially ended the Revolutionary War and recognized American independence. Jay’s insistence on favorable terms for the United States during these negotiations demonstrated his steadfast commitment to the new nation's interests.
Following the war, Jay continued to play a key role in shaping the young nation's foreign policy. On May 1, 1783, he was appointed one of the ministers to negotiate treaties with European powers, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled diplomat. Upon returning to New York in 1784, Jay was appointed Secretary of Foreign Affairs by the Confederation Congress, a position he held until 1789. During this period, Jay effectively managed the nation's foreign relations under the Articles of Confederation, navigating the complex and often precarious international environment in which the fledgling United States found itself.
In 1789, with the establishment of the federal government under the new Constitution, President George Washington appointed John Jay as the first Chief Justice of the United States. As Chief Justice, Jay was responsible for establishing many of the procedures and practices that would define the Supreme Court's role in the American legal system. His tenure, which lasted until June 29, 1795, was marked by his efforts to ensure that the judiciary would be an independent and co-equal branch of government. Jay’s decision in *Chisholm v. Georgia* (1793), which affirmed the right of citizens to sue states in federal court, was particularly significant, though it led to the passage of the Eleventh Amendment, which limited such suits.
Jay’s influence extended beyond the judiciary. In 1794, while still serving as Chief Justice, he was appointed Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to Great Britain by President Washington. His mission was to negotiate a treaty to resolve ongoing conflicts between the two nations, including issues related to British interference with American shipping and the continued British military presence on American soil. The resulting Jay Treaty, signed in 1794, was highly controversial; while it averted war with Britain and secured important economic concessions, many Americans felt it was too conciliatory to British interests. Despite the controversy, the treaty was ratified, highlighting Jay's ability to navigate complex diplomatic challenges.
In 1795, Jay was elected Governor of New York, a position he held until 1801. As governor, Jay focused on reforms to the state's judicial system and infrastructure improvements, while also promoting the abolition of slavery in New York, a cause he had long supported. Jay’s tenure as governor was marked by his steady leadership during a period of significant political change and conflict, both within the state and the nation.
After declining to seek reelection as governor in 1801 and also declining a reappointment as Chief Justice of the United States, Jay retired from public life. He spent his remaining years at his farm in Bedford, near New York City, where he lived a relatively quiet life until his death on May 17, 1829. He was interred in the family burying ground at Rye, New York.
John Jay's legacy as a Founding Father of the United States is profound. His contributions as a diplomat, jurist, and statesman were instrumental in shaping the nation's early government and foreign policy. From his role in negotiating the Treaty of Paris to his service as the first Chief Justice of the United States, Jay's influence on the development of the United States was substantial and enduring. His commitment to the principles of justice, diplomacy, and governance continues to be remembered and honored in American history.
Jay’s entry into politics came through his involvement in the New York committee of correspondence, a group that played a vital role in organizing colonial resistance to British policies in the years leading up to the American Revolution. His skills and leadership were soon recognized, leading to his election as a delegate to the Continental Congress, where he served from 1774 to 1776 and again from 1778 to 1779.
In 1777, during his time in the Continental Congress, Jay was recalled to New York to assist in drafting the state’s first constitution, a critical task as the colonies began to see themselves as independent states. Following this, he was appointed the first Chief Justice of the New York State Supreme Court in May 1777. Jay's tenure as Chief Justice was short-lived, as he resigned in December 1778 to assume the presidency of the Continental Congress, a position he held from December 10, 1778, to September 28, 1779. Although the role was largely ceremonial by that time, it was a period during which Jay’s leadership and diplomatic skills were increasingly called upon.
Jay's diplomatic career began in earnest when he was appointed Minister Plenipotentiary to Spain on September 27, 1779. His mission was to secure financial and military support for the American Revolution, although his efforts in Spain met with limited success. Nonetheless, Jay’s diplomatic acumen was recognized, and in 1781, he was appointed as one of the American ministers to negotiate peace with Great Britain. His work culminated in the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which officially ended the Revolutionary War and recognized American independence. Jay’s insistence on favorable terms for the United States during these negotiations demonstrated his steadfast commitment to the new nation's interests.
Following the war, Jay continued to play a key role in shaping the young nation's foreign policy. On May 1, 1783, he was appointed one of the ministers to negotiate treaties with European powers, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled diplomat. Upon returning to New York in 1784, Jay was appointed Secretary of Foreign Affairs by the Confederation Congress, a position he held until 1789. During this period, Jay effectively managed the nation's foreign relations under the Articles of Confederation, navigating the complex and often precarious international environment in which the fledgling United States found itself.
In 1789, with the establishment of the federal government under the new Constitution, President George Washington appointed John Jay as the first Chief Justice of the United States. As Chief Justice, Jay was responsible for establishing many of the procedures and practices that would define the Supreme Court's role in the American legal system. His tenure, which lasted until June 29, 1795, was marked by his efforts to ensure that the judiciary would be an independent and co-equal branch of government. Jay’s decision in *Chisholm v. Georgia* (1793), which affirmed the right of citizens to sue states in federal court, was particularly significant, though it led to the passage of the Eleventh Amendment, which limited such suits.
Jay’s influence extended beyond the judiciary. In 1794, while still serving as Chief Justice, he was appointed Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to Great Britain by President Washington. His mission was to negotiate a treaty to resolve ongoing conflicts between the two nations, including issues related to British interference with American shipping and the continued British military presence on American soil. The resulting Jay Treaty, signed in 1794, was highly controversial; while it averted war with Britain and secured important economic concessions, many Americans felt it was too conciliatory to British interests. Despite the controversy, the treaty was ratified, highlighting Jay's ability to navigate complex diplomatic challenges.
In 1795, Jay was elected Governor of New York, a position he held until 1801. As governor, Jay focused on reforms to the state's judicial system and infrastructure improvements, while also promoting the abolition of slavery in New York, a cause he had long supported. Jay’s tenure as governor was marked by his steady leadership during a period of significant political change and conflict, both within the state and the nation.
After declining to seek reelection as governor in 1801 and also declining a reappointment as Chief Justice of the United States, Jay retired from public life. He spent his remaining years at his farm in Bedford, near New York City, where he lived a relatively quiet life until his death on May 17, 1829. He was interred in the family burying ground at Rye, New York.
John Jay's legacy as a Founding Father of the United States is profound. His contributions as a diplomat, jurist, and statesman were instrumental in shaping the nation's early government and foreign policy. From his role in negotiating the Treaty of Paris to his service as the first Chief Justice of the United States, Jay's influence on the development of the United States was substantial and enduring. His commitment to the principles of justice, diplomacy, and governance continues to be remembered and honored in American history.
John Jay by Gilbert Stuart
Jay Heritage Center in Rye, NY. 2024
John Jay Headstone in front of monolith - John Jay Cemetery in Rye, NY. 2024
John Jay Cemetery in Rye, NY. 2024
Thomas Johnson Jr.
14 Nov 1732 – 26 Oct 1819
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Thomas Johnson (November 4, 1732 – October 26, 1819) was an American lawyer, patriot, and political leader who played a central role in Maryland and early United States history. He served as a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, where he signed the Continental Association, and later became Maryland’s first elected governor. A close associate of George Washington, Johnson was also briefly a justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.
Born in Calvert County, Maryland, Johnson came from a family with legal and political roots. He studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1753, later relocating his practice to Frederick County. Elected to Maryland’s provincial assembly in 1761, he gained experience in colonial politics. In 1766, he married Ann Jennings, and they had eight children. His early legal and political career set the stage for his influential role in the American Revolution.
As tensions with Britain escalated, Johnson became a leading pro-independence voice. In 1774 and 1775, he served in the Continental Congress, where he worked with Franklin and Harrison on the Committee of Secret Correspondence to seek foreign support. Back in Maryland, he authored the 1776 Maryland Declaration of Rights and helped write the state’s first constitution. He also served as a brigadier general in the Maryland militia and provided critical support to Washington during the New Jersey campaign and Valley Forge encampment.
In 1777, Johnson became Maryland’s first post-colonial governor, serving until 1779. He continued to play a leading role in state politics, including work on legislation that laid the groundwork for the Constitutional Convention. He supported the ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1788 and was later appointed by President Washington to help plan the new capital city. Johnson was also given a recess appointment to the Supreme Court in 1791 and authored the court’s first written opinion. He resigned in 1793 due to poor health.
Johnson declined several later federal appointments, including Secretary of State. He spent his final years in Frederick, Maryland, where he lived with his daughter Ann. He died in 1819 and is buried at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Though honored with several schools and bridges bearing his name, Johnson’s legacy has been reexamined due to his status as a slaveholder.
Born in Calvert County, Maryland, Johnson came from a family with legal and political roots. He studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1753, later relocating his practice to Frederick County. Elected to Maryland’s provincial assembly in 1761, he gained experience in colonial politics. In 1766, he married Ann Jennings, and they had eight children. His early legal and political career set the stage for his influential role in the American Revolution.
As tensions with Britain escalated, Johnson became a leading pro-independence voice. In 1774 and 1775, he served in the Continental Congress, where he worked with Franklin and Harrison on the Committee of Secret Correspondence to seek foreign support. Back in Maryland, he authored the 1776 Maryland Declaration of Rights and helped write the state’s first constitution. He also served as a brigadier general in the Maryland militia and provided critical support to Washington during the New Jersey campaign and Valley Forge encampment.
In 1777, Johnson became Maryland’s first post-colonial governor, serving until 1779. He continued to play a leading role in state politics, including work on legislation that laid the groundwork for the Constitutional Convention. He supported the ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1788 and was later appointed by President Washington to help plan the new capital city. Johnson was also given a recess appointment to the Supreme Court in 1791 and authored the court’s first written opinion. He resigned in 1793 due to poor health.
Johnson declined several later federal appointments, including Secretary of State. He spent his final years in Frederick, Maryland, where he lived with his daughter Ann. He died in 1819 and is buried at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Though honored with several schools and bridges bearing his name, Johnson’s legacy has been reexamined due to his status as a slaveholder.
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Thomas Johnson Jr.
James Kinsey
22 Mar 1731 – 4 Jan 1802
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James Kinsey (March 22, 1731 – January 4, 1802) was an American lawyer, legislator, and judge from New Jersey who played a role in the early political development of the United States. A devoted Quaker, Kinsey is best remembered for his service in the Continental Congress and for his long tenure as Chief Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court.
Kinsey was born in Philadelphia on March 22, 1731, and raised in the Quaker tradition. He attended local common schools and studied law before being admitted to the New Jersey bar in 1753. He established a legal practice that operated in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, though his primary residence was in Burlington County, New Jersey.
Kinsey’s political career began with his election to the New Jersey General Assembly, where he served from 1772 to 1775. During this period, as tensions with Great Britain escalated, he became involved in the revolutionary cause and was appointed to the committee of correspondence for Burlington County in 1774 and 1775. His work helped coordinate colonial resistance to British policies.
On July 23, 1774, Kinsey was appointed as a delegate to the First Continental Congress. He was among the signers of the Continental Association, an agreement that called for a boycott of British goods. However, Kinsey’s Quaker beliefs, which emphasized peace and nonviolence, likely contributed to his decision to resign from Congress on November 22, 1775, as the push toward armed conflict intensified.
After the Revolution, Kinsey continued his public service. On November 20, 1789, he was appointed Chief Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court, a position he held until his death. In this role, he contributed to the legal foundation of the newly independent state. He also served in the New Jersey Legislative Council representing Burlington County in 1791.
James Kinsey died on January 4, 1802, in Burlington, New Jersey. He was laid to rest in the Friends Burying Ground, consistent with his Quaker faith. Throughout his life, Kinsey remained committed to the law, public service, and the values of his religious tradition.
Kinsey was born in Philadelphia on March 22, 1731, and raised in the Quaker tradition. He attended local common schools and studied law before being admitted to the New Jersey bar in 1753. He established a legal practice that operated in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, though his primary residence was in Burlington County, New Jersey.
Kinsey’s political career began with his election to the New Jersey General Assembly, where he served from 1772 to 1775. During this period, as tensions with Great Britain escalated, he became involved in the revolutionary cause and was appointed to the committee of correspondence for Burlington County in 1774 and 1775. His work helped coordinate colonial resistance to British policies.
On July 23, 1774, Kinsey was appointed as a delegate to the First Continental Congress. He was among the signers of the Continental Association, an agreement that called for a boycott of British goods. However, Kinsey’s Quaker beliefs, which emphasized peace and nonviolence, likely contributed to his decision to resign from Congress on November 22, 1775, as the push toward armed conflict intensified.
After the Revolution, Kinsey continued his public service. On November 20, 1789, he was appointed Chief Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court, a position he held until his death. In this role, he contributed to the legal foundation of the newly independent state. He also served in the New Jersey Legislative Council representing Burlington County in 1791.
James Kinsey died on January 4, 1802, in Burlington, New Jersey. He was laid to rest in the Friends Burying Ground, consistent with his Quaker faith. Throughout his life, Kinsey remained committed to the law, public service, and the values of his religious tradition.
James Kinsey
James Kinsey
James Kinsey
Richard Henry Lee
20 Jan 1732 – 19 Jun 1794
Home:
Coles Point, VA
Education:
The private school at Wakefield, Yorkshire, England
Profession:
Farmer, Justice of the peace, Virginia House of Burgesses, Continental Congress, First US Senator for Virginia
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Richard Henry Lee, a prominent Virginia statesman, played a crucial role in America's fight for independence. He introduced the resolution for independence in the Continental Congress and later served as its President. Throughout his career, he strongly opposed centralization of power and was a key figure in securing the inclusion of the Bill of Rights in the Constitution.
Lee's political contributions also included his leadership in opposing the Constitution due to the lack of a bill of rights. His writings, particularly the "Letters of the Federal Farmer," articulated the antifederalist sentiments prevalent at the time.
In the latter part of his career, Lee served in the U.S. Senate but resigned due to failing health. He died in 1794, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy for individual rights and limited government.
Lee's political contributions also included his leadership in opposing the Constitution due to the lack of a bill of rights. His writings, particularly the "Letters of the Federal Farmer," articulated the antifederalist sentiments prevalent at the time.
In the latter part of his career, Lee served in the U.S. Senate but resigned due to failing health. He died in 1794, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy for individual rights and limited government.
Richard Henry Lee by Charles Willson Peale
This burial site is located in the middle of a soybean field.
Philip Livingston
15 Jan 1716 – 12 Jun 1778
Home:
Brooklyn Heights, NY
Education:
Graduate of Yale College
Profession:
Merchant, Alderman, New York city; Delegate to the Albany Convention, Delegate to the Continental Congress, Later, State Senator in New York, Delegate to Federal Congress
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Philip Livingston, a significant New York merchant and philanthropist, was deeply involved in early American politics. He was initially conservative, preferring dignified protest against British policies, and served in various political roles including the New York assembly and as an alderman. Livingston participated in the Continental Congress and contributed to committees on important issues like commerce and the military.
Despite his moderate political views, Livingston supported the Revolutionary cause, contributing his resources to the war effort. His properties were heavily impacted during the British occupation of New York, being used as military facilities.
Livingston died in 1778 while still serving in Congress, demonstrating his commitment to American independence until his last moments. His legacy includes his contributions to political and civic institutions, which helped shape early American society.
Despite his moderate political views, Livingston supported the Revolutionary cause, contributing his resources to the war effort. His properties were heavily impacted during the British occupation of New York, being used as military facilities.
Livingston died in 1778 while still serving in Congress, demonstrating his commitment to American independence until his last moments. His legacy includes his contributions to political and civic institutions, which helped shape early American society.
Philip Livingston
William Livingston
30 Nov 1723 – 25 July 1790
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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.
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.
William Livingston
Isaac Low
13 Apr 1735 – 25 July 1791
Home:
Raritan Landing, Piscataway, New Jersey
Education:
educated through private means in line with his mercantile family's prominence
Profession:
Merchant and Political figure
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Born on April 13, 1735, Isaac was the son of Cornelius Low Jr., a successful merchant and builder of the Georgian-style Cornelius Low House, and Johanna Gouverneur Low. His family lineage was a blend of German, Dutch, and French Huguenot ancestry. The Lows were well-known in colonial New Jersey and New York society.
Isaac Low followed in his father’s footsteps and became a prominent merchant in New York City. His firm, Lott & Low, engaged in transatlantic trade and held substantial real estate holdings, including investments in a slitting mill. During the French and Indian War, Low served as a tax commissioner for the provincial government, furthering his standing in colonial administration. His wealth positioned him among New York’s elite, though not at its pinnacle.
Low’s political career began in earnest when he was chosen as a delegate to the Stamp Act Congress in 1765, where he spoke out against taxation without representation. He was an active organizer, serving as chairman of New York’s Committee of Correspondence and later, in 1774, as chairman of the Committee of Sixty. That same year, he represented New York in the First Continental Congress and later in the New York Provincial Congress. In 1775, he also became the first president of the New York Chamber of Commerce.
Though initially a Patriot, Low opposed war with Britain. After the Declaration of Independence, he resigned from the cause and was arrested in New Jersey on suspicion of treason, only to be released through George Washington’s intervention. He later collaborated with the British during their occupation of New York, which led to the confiscation of his property and a formal act of attainder in 1779. He moved to England in 1783, where he lived until his death.
Low was married to Margarita Cuyler, of the influential Schuyler and Van Cortlandt families. They had one son, Isaac Low Jr., who became a British army commissary-general. Isaac Low died in Cowes, Isle of Wight, on July 25, 1791.
Isaac Low followed in his father’s footsteps and became a prominent merchant in New York City. His firm, Lott & Low, engaged in transatlantic trade and held substantial real estate holdings, including investments in a slitting mill. During the French and Indian War, Low served as a tax commissioner for the provincial government, furthering his standing in colonial administration. His wealth positioned him among New York’s elite, though not at its pinnacle.
Low’s political career began in earnest when he was chosen as a delegate to the Stamp Act Congress in 1765, where he spoke out against taxation without representation. He was an active organizer, serving as chairman of New York’s Committee of Correspondence and later, in 1774, as chairman of the Committee of Sixty. That same year, he represented New York in the First Continental Congress and later in the New York Provincial Congress. In 1775, he also became the first president of the New York Chamber of Commerce.
Though initially a Patriot, Low opposed war with Britain. After the Declaration of Independence, he resigned from the cause and was arrested in New Jersey on suspicion of treason, only to be released through George Washington’s intervention. He later collaborated with the British during their occupation of New York, which led to the confiscation of his property and a formal act of attainder in 1779. He moved to England in 1783, where he lived until his death.
Low was married to Margarita Cuyler, of the influential Schuyler and Van Cortlandt families. They had one son, Isaac Low Jr., who became a British army commissary-general. Isaac Low died in Cowes, Isle of Wight, on July 25, 1791.
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Isaac Low
Thomas Lynch Jr.
5 Aug 1749 – 1779
Home:
Hopsewee Plantation, Georgetown, SC
Education:
Graduated Cambridge University
Profession:
Captain of a South Carolina Regimental Company, Delegate to the Continental Congress
Info:
Thomas Lynch, Jr., born in 1749 in South Carolina, quickly became a significant political figure due to his family's influence. He studied abroad in England before returning to manage his plantations and engaging in colonial politics during the revolutionary fervor.
Lynch served in various political roles and suffered from health issues after contracting bilious fever during a military recruitment trip. Despite poor health, he joined the Continental Congress, where he signed the Declaration of Independence.
Lynch's life ended tragically when he disappeared at sea in 1779 with his wife while seeking medical treatment in France.
The Hopsewee Plantation, birthplace of Thomas Lynch, Jr., is open for tours. Check their website for schedules.
Lynch served in various political roles and suffered from health issues after contracting bilious fever during a military recruitment trip. Despite poor health, he joined the Continental Congress, where he signed the Declaration of Independence.
Lynch's life ended tragically when he disappeared at sea in 1779 with his wife while seeking medical treatment in France.
The Hopsewee Plantation, birthplace of Thomas Lynch, Jr., is open for tours. Check their website for schedules.
Thomas Lynch, Jr.
Hopsewee Plantation
Hopsewee Plantation - Closed during our visit.
Thomas Lynch, Jr. Plaque located on the original house
Photo furnished by Hopsewee Plantation
Photo furnished by Hopsewee Plantation
Thomas McKean
19 Mar 1734 – 24 Jun 1817
Home:
Philadelphia, PA
Education:
Studied under Francis Allison
Profession:
Lawyer, Deputy Attorney General to County Sussex, Admitted to Bar of Pennsylvania Supreme Court, appointed Clerk of the Assembly of Delaware, Member of Delaware Assembly, Delegate to the Stamp Act Congress, Collector of Customs and Commissioner of Revenue at New Castle, Delegate to the Continental Congress, President of Delaware, Chief Justice of Pennsylvania, Governor of Pennsylvania
Info:
Among his many offices, McKean was a delegate to the Continental Congress (of which he later served as president), President of Delaware, Chief Justice of Pennsylvania, and Governor of Pennsylvania. The above-quoted statement regarding his being “hounded” by the British during the Revolutionary War is probably based upon a letter he wrote to his friend John Adams in 1777, in which he described how he had been “hunted like a fox by the enemy, compelled to remove my family five times in three months, and at last fixed them in a little log-house on the banks of the Susquehanna, but they were soon obliged to move again on account of the incursions of the Indians.”
However, it is problematic to assert that McKean’s treatment was due to his being a signer of the Declaration of Independence. (His name does not appear on printed copies of that document authenticated in January 1777, so it is likely he did not affix his name to it until later.) If he was targeted by the British, it was quite possibly because he also served in a military capacity as a volunteer leader of the militia. In any case, McKean did not end up in “poverty,” as the estate he left behind when he died in 1817 was described as consisting of “stocks, bonds, and huge land tracts in Pennsylvania.”[2]
[2] The Price They Paid - A popular essay outlines the fates of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, but many of its details are inaccurate. June 28, 2005 by David Mikkelson
However, it is problematic to assert that McKean’s treatment was due to his being a signer of the Declaration of Independence. (His name does not appear on printed copies of that document authenticated in January 1777, so it is likely he did not affix his name to it until later.) If he was targeted by the British, it was quite possibly because he also served in a military capacity as a volunteer leader of the militia. In any case, McKean did not end up in “poverty,” as the estate he left behind when he died in 1817 was described as consisting of “stocks, bonds, and huge land tracts in Pennsylvania.”[2]
[2] The Price They Paid - A popular essay outlines the fates of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, but many of its details are inaccurate. June 28, 2005 by David Mikkelson
Henry Middleton
1717 – 13 June 1784
Home:
Charleston, Province of South Carolina
Education:
Educated in England
Profession:
Planter and Politician
Info:
Henry Middleton was born in 1717 at "The Oaks," his family's plantation near Charleston, South Carolina. He was the son of Susan Amory Middleton and Arthur Middleton, a wealthy planter and acting governor of the colony. His grandfather, Edward Middleton, had emigrated from England via Barbados. Educated in England, Henry returned to South Carolina and inherited his father's estate, ultimately becoming one of the colony’s largest landowners, with 50,000 acres and around 800 enslaved people.
Middleton's public career began with appointments as justice of the peace and member of the Commons House of Assembly, where he was elected speaker three times. He served on the provincial council until resigning in 1770 over British policy. In 1774, Middleton was appointed a delegate to the First Continental Congress, where he briefly served as president after Peyton Randolph’s departure and signed the Continental Association. A moderate voice, he left the Second Continental Congress in 1776 when support for independence gained momentum.
Returning to South Carolina, Middleton became president of the provincial congress and later served on the council of safety. In 1776, he and his son Arthur helped draft South Carolina’s temporary state constitution. By 1779, he was a state senator. When Charleston fell to the British in 1780, Middleton accepted British rule, reverting to subject status. Nonetheless, due to his earlier Revolutionary support, his property was not confiscated.
In 1741, Middleton married Mary Baker Williams, with whom he had 12 children, seven of whom survived to adulthood. Their son Arthur signed the Declaration of Independence. His daughters married notable figures including Governor Edward Rutledge and Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. After Mary’s death in 1761, Middleton married Maria Henrietta Bull in 1762 and, after her death, married Lady Mary McKenzie, daughter of the 3rd Earl of Cromartie, in 1776.
Henry Middleton died on June 13, 1784, in Charleston and was buried in Goosecreek Churchyard, Berkeley County, South Carolina. His grandson, also Henry Middleton, became Governor of South Carolina and U.S. Minister to Russia.
Middleton's public career began with appointments as justice of the peace and member of the Commons House of Assembly, where he was elected speaker three times. He served on the provincial council until resigning in 1770 over British policy. In 1774, Middleton was appointed a delegate to the First Continental Congress, where he briefly served as president after Peyton Randolph’s departure and signed the Continental Association. A moderate voice, he left the Second Continental Congress in 1776 when support for independence gained momentum.
Returning to South Carolina, Middleton became president of the provincial congress and later served on the council of safety. In 1776, he and his son Arthur helped draft South Carolina’s temporary state constitution. By 1779, he was a state senator. When Charleston fell to the British in 1780, Middleton accepted British rule, reverting to subject status. Nonetheless, due to his earlier Revolutionary support, his property was not confiscated.
In 1741, Middleton married Mary Baker Williams, with whom he had 12 children, seven of whom survived to adulthood. Their son Arthur signed the Declaration of Independence. His daughters married notable figures including Governor Edward Rutledge and Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. After Mary’s death in 1761, Middleton married Maria Henrietta Bull in 1762 and, after her death, married Lady Mary McKenzie, daughter of the 3rd Earl of Cromartie, in 1776.
Henry Middleton died on June 13, 1784, in Charleston and was buried in Goosecreek Churchyard, Berkeley County, South Carolina. His grandson, also Henry Middleton, became Governor of South Carolina and U.S. Minister to Russia.
Thomas Mifflin
10 Jan 1744 – 20 Jan 1800
Home:
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Education:
University of Pennsylvania
Profession:
Merchant, Politician, Member of the Pennsylvania Colonial Legislature, Member of the Continental Congress, President of the Continental Congress, Major and Chief Aide-de-Camp to General George Washington during the Revolutionary War, Quartermaster General of the Continental Army, Major General in the Continental Army, Speaker of the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives, Delegate to the Constitutional Convention and Governor of Pennsylvania
Info:
Thomas Mifflin was a prominent American statesman, military officer, and political leader who played a critical role in both the Revolutionary War and the early governance of the United States. Born on January 10, 1744, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Mifflin was a member of a well-established Quaker family. His early education was robust, culminating in his graduation from the University of Pennsylvania in 1760, a reflection of his intellectual promise and the opportunities available to him as a member of Philadelphia’s elite.
Mifflin’s public career began with his involvement in the American Philosophical Society, to which he was elected in 1765. This society, founded by Benjamin Franklin, was a leading intellectual and scientific institution of the time, and Mifflin’s membership indicated his engagement with the important ideas and debates of his era. His political career soon followed, with his election to the colonial legislature of Pennsylvania, where he served from 1772 to 1774. His time in the legislature was marked by increasing tensions between the American colonies and the British Crown, and Mifflin quickly aligned himself with the growing movement for colonial rights.
Mifflin’s leadership abilities were recognized early in the struggle for independence, and he was elected as a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774. He continued to serve in the Continental Congress through 1775, a period that saw the colonies move from protest to outright rebellion. Mifflin’s contributions to the revolutionary cause were not limited to the political sphere. On July 4, 1775, he was appointed as a major and chief aide-de-camp to General George Washington, a position that placed him at the heart of the Continental Army’s command structure. Shortly thereafter, on August 14, 1775, Mifflin was appointed Quartermaster General of the Continental Army, responsible for overseeing the supply and logistics of the fledgling army. His work in this role was crucial to the army’s ability to sustain itself during the early, precarious years of the Revolution.
Mifflin's military career advanced rapidly. He was promoted to the rank of major general on February 19, 1777, reflecting his increasing importance in the Continental Army. However, his time in the military was not without controversy. As a member of the Board of War, appointed on November 7, 1777, Mifflin was involved in the administration of military affairs, but he also became embroiled in disputes regarding the army's management and leadership. Frustrated with the direction of the war and the challenges of his role, Mifflin resigned his commission as major general on February 25, 1779.
Despite his resignation from the military, Mifflin remained an influential figure in the American Revolution and the early Republic. He returned to the Continental Congress, serving from 1782 to 1784. During this period, he was elected President of the Continental Congress in 1783, a position in which he oversaw the ratification of the Treaty of Paris, which officially ended the Revolutionary War. Mifflin’s tenure as president also included the transition of the Continental Army from wartime service to peacetime status, a delicate and critical task that helped stabilize the new nation.
Mifflin’s dedication to education and civic life was evident through his service as a trustee of the University of Pennsylvania from 1778 to 1791. His influence extended to state politics, where he served as speaker of the Pennsylvania state house of representatives from 1785 to 1788. His leadership was further recognized when he was chosen as a delegate to the Federal Constitutional Convention in 1787. At the convention, Mifflin was one of the signatories of the United States Constitution, helping to create the framework for the new government.
Following the adoption of the Constitution, Mifflin continued to play a leading role in Pennsylvania’s government. He was elected president of the supreme executive council of Pennsylvania, serving from October 1788 to October 1790. During this time, Pennsylvania adopted a new state constitution, and Mifflin was elected president of the state constitutional convention in 1790. His leadership in these capacities culminated in his election as the first Governor of Pennsylvania under the new constitution, a position he held from 1790 to 1799. As governor, Mifflin oversaw the implementation of the new state government, worked to strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy, and managed internal conflicts, including the Whiskey Rebellion, which tested the authority of the federal government.
After his governorship, Mifflin continued to serve in public office, returning to the Pennsylvania state house of representatives in 1799 and 1800. However, his health began to decline, and his final years were marked by financial difficulties, partly due to his earlier wartime service, which had strained his personal resources.
Thomas Mifflin died on January 20, 1800, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He was interred in the front yard of Trinity Lutheran Church, a testament to his lifelong commitment to public service. Mifflin's legacy is one of dedication to the American cause, both on the battlefield and in the halls of government. His contributions to the Revolutionary War, the formation of the United States, and the governance of Pennsylvania place him among the notable figures of America’s founding era.
Mifflin’s public career began with his involvement in the American Philosophical Society, to which he was elected in 1765. This society, founded by Benjamin Franklin, was a leading intellectual and scientific institution of the time, and Mifflin’s membership indicated his engagement with the important ideas and debates of his era. His political career soon followed, with his election to the colonial legislature of Pennsylvania, where he served from 1772 to 1774. His time in the legislature was marked by increasing tensions between the American colonies and the British Crown, and Mifflin quickly aligned himself with the growing movement for colonial rights.
Mifflin’s leadership abilities were recognized early in the struggle for independence, and he was elected as a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774. He continued to serve in the Continental Congress through 1775, a period that saw the colonies move from protest to outright rebellion. Mifflin’s contributions to the revolutionary cause were not limited to the political sphere. On July 4, 1775, he was appointed as a major and chief aide-de-camp to General George Washington, a position that placed him at the heart of the Continental Army’s command structure. Shortly thereafter, on August 14, 1775, Mifflin was appointed Quartermaster General of the Continental Army, responsible for overseeing the supply and logistics of the fledgling army. His work in this role was crucial to the army’s ability to sustain itself during the early, precarious years of the Revolution.
Mifflin's military career advanced rapidly. He was promoted to the rank of major general on February 19, 1777, reflecting his increasing importance in the Continental Army. However, his time in the military was not without controversy. As a member of the Board of War, appointed on November 7, 1777, Mifflin was involved in the administration of military affairs, but he also became embroiled in disputes regarding the army's management and leadership. Frustrated with the direction of the war and the challenges of his role, Mifflin resigned his commission as major general on February 25, 1779.
Despite his resignation from the military, Mifflin remained an influential figure in the American Revolution and the early Republic. He returned to the Continental Congress, serving from 1782 to 1784. During this period, he was elected President of the Continental Congress in 1783, a position in which he oversaw the ratification of the Treaty of Paris, which officially ended the Revolutionary War. Mifflin’s tenure as president also included the transition of the Continental Army from wartime service to peacetime status, a delicate and critical task that helped stabilize the new nation.
Mifflin’s dedication to education and civic life was evident through his service as a trustee of the University of Pennsylvania from 1778 to 1791. His influence extended to state politics, where he served as speaker of the Pennsylvania state house of representatives from 1785 to 1788. His leadership was further recognized when he was chosen as a delegate to the Federal Constitutional Convention in 1787. At the convention, Mifflin was one of the signatories of the United States Constitution, helping to create the framework for the new government.
Following the adoption of the Constitution, Mifflin continued to play a leading role in Pennsylvania’s government. He was elected president of the supreme executive council of Pennsylvania, serving from October 1788 to October 1790. During this time, Pennsylvania adopted a new state constitution, and Mifflin was elected president of the state constitutional convention in 1790. His leadership in these capacities culminated in his election as the first Governor of Pennsylvania under the new constitution, a position he held from 1790 to 1799. As governor, Mifflin oversaw the implementation of the new state government, worked to strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy, and managed internal conflicts, including the Whiskey Rebellion, which tested the authority of the federal government.
After his governorship, Mifflin continued to serve in public office, returning to the Pennsylvania state house of representatives in 1799 and 1800. However, his health began to decline, and his final years were marked by financial difficulties, partly due to his earlier wartime service, which had strained his personal resources.
Thomas Mifflin died on January 20, 1800, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He was interred in the front yard of Trinity Lutheran Church, a testament to his lifelong commitment to public service. Mifflin's legacy is one of dedication to the American cause, both on the battlefield and in the halls of government. His contributions to the Revolutionary War, the formation of the United States, and the governance of Pennsylvania place him among the notable figures of America’s founding era.
John Morton
10 Mar 1724 – 1 Apr 1777
Home:
Chester, PA
Education:
Informal
Profession:
Judge, Elected to Provincial Assembly, Delegate to the Stamp Act Congress, President of the Provincial Assembly, Offices in Pennsylvania: Justice of the Peace, High Sheriff, Presiding Judge of the General Court and the Court of Common Pleas, Associate Judge of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania; Elected to Continental Congress
Info:
John Morton, born in 1725 in Pennsylvania, had a significant influence in the American Revolution. Initially a surveyor and politician at the local and state levels, Morton's political career evolved significantly over time. He served in the Pennsylvania legislature for many years and became an associate justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.
Morton's most notable contribution came as a delegate to the Continental Congress, where he played a pivotal role in the decision to declare independence from Britain. His critical vote supported the revolutionary cause, aligning Pennsylvania with the other colonies in favor of independence.
Morton died in 1777, just a year after signing the Declaration of Independence. His legacy includes his crucial role in the founding of the United States and his leadership in Pennsylvania. His efforts are commemorated in Chester, where he is buried.
Morton's most notable contribution came as a delegate to the Continental Congress, where he played a pivotal role in the decision to declare independence from Britain. His critical vote supported the revolutionary cause, aligning Pennsylvania with the other colonies in favor of independence.
Morton died in 1777, just a year after signing the Declaration of Independence. His legacy includes his crucial role in the founding of the United States and his leadership in Pennsylvania. His efforts are commemorated in Chester, where he is buried.
John Morton
John Morton - 2021
John Morton - 2021
John Morton - 2021
William Paca
31 Oct 1740 – 23 Oct 1799
Home:
Wye Plantation, MD
Education:
Profession:
Judge, Delegate to the Maryland Legislature, Member of the Committee of Correspondence, Patriot Leader; Elected to Continental Congress, Chief Justice of Maryland, Elected Governor of Maryland, Federal District Judge for the State of Maryland
Grave Site:
The gravesite is located on private property.
Info:
William Paca, a leader from Maryland, was a key figure in pushing his state towards supporting independence in 1776. He worked with others to shift the conservative Maryland Convention's stance, enabling congressional support for independence. Paca also contributed to the state by drafting its constitution and serving in various judicial roles.
Throughout his career, Paca remained active in state governance, serving as the Governor of Maryland where he focused on the welfare of war veterans and other postwar issues. He later played a role in the ratification of the Federal Constitution and was appointed as a Federal district judge by President Washington.
Paca died in 1799, having spent his later years at Wye Plantation, leaving a lasting impact on both his state and the country.
Throughout his career, Paca remained active in state governance, serving as the Governor of Maryland where he focused on the welfare of war veterans and other postwar issues. He later played a role in the ratification of the Federal Constitution and was appointed as a Federal district judge by President Washington.
Paca died in 1799, having spent his later years at Wye Plantation, leaving a lasting impact on both his state and the country.
Portrait of William Paca, Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Maryland.
Gate to Wey House
Wey House Service Entrance - Cemetery located down
this road, but the road is Posted.
Robert Treat Paine
11 Mar 1731 – 12 May 1814
Home:
Boston, MA
Education:
Harvard College
Profession:
Judge, Admitted to Massachusetts Bar, Elected to Provincial Assembly, Delegate to the Continental Congress, Attorney General for Massachusetts, Judge, Supreme Court of Massachusetts, State counselor
Info:
Robert Treat Paine, born in 1731 in Boston, was a clergyman turned lawyer who played a notable role in early American politics. He was deeply involved in the patriot movement, becoming one of Massachusetts's first delegates to the Continental Congress, where he specialized in military and Indian affairs. Known as "Objection Maker," Paine was critical in many legislative decisions.
After his congressional tenure, Paine served as Massachusetts's first attorney general and later as an associate justice of the Superior Court, appointed by his friend John Hancock. He was instrumental in drafting the Massachusetts constitution and remained active in civic and scientific affairs.
Paine retired in 1804 due to increasing deafness and passed away in 1814 in Boston. He was a founder of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and shifted from Calvinism to Unitarianism, reflecting his evolving personal beliefs and alignment with Federalist politics.
After his congressional tenure, Paine served as Massachusetts's first attorney general and later as an associate justice of the Superior Court, appointed by his friend John Hancock. He was instrumental in drafting the Massachusetts constitution and remained active in civic and scientific affairs.
Paine retired in 1804 due to increasing deafness and passed away in 1814 in Boston. He was a founder of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and shifted from Calvinism to Unitarianism, reflecting his evolving personal beliefs and alignment with Federalist politics.
Robert Treat Paine
Edmund Pendleton
9 Sept 1721 – 23 Oct 1803
Home:
Caroline County, Virginia
Education:
Apprenticeship under Benjamin Robinson; self-taught in law
Profession:
Planter, Lawyer, Judge, Politician
Info:
Edmund Pendleton was born on September 9, 1721, in Caroline County, Virginia. Orphaned at birth, he was raised by his mother and stepfather. His grandfather James Taylor and paternal grandfather Philip Pendleton were early English immigrants. At age 14, Edmund began clerking for the Caroline County Court under Benjamin Robinson, where he gained exposure to legal and political affairs and began studying law.
Pendleton received his license to practice law in 1741 and built a successful legal career, eventually choosing to practice in the General Court. In 1751, he became a justice of the peace for Caroline County. He mentored numerous young lawyers, including his nephews John Penn and John Taylor of Caroline, both of whom rose to prominence. From 1752 to 1776, Pendleton represented Caroline County in the House of Burgesses.
Pendleton was a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, serving with George Washington and Patrick Henry. Although he sought reconciliation with Britain, he helped organize resistance and signed the Continental Association. As president of the Virginia Committee of Safety in 1775–1776, he led the colony during the move toward independence. He presided over the Virginia Convention that authorized its delegates to propose separation from Britain.
A hip injury in 1777 left Pendleton reliant on crutches, but he remained active in public life. He helped revise Virginia’s laws with Jefferson and Wythe and became the first president of the Supreme Court of Appeals in 1778, serving until his death. In 1788, Pendleton presided over the Virginia Ratifying Convention for the U.S. Constitution, where he championed its adoption with thoughtful moderation.
Pendleton married twice. His first wife, Betty Roy, died in childbirth. He later married Sarah Pollard, with whom he had no children. Without direct heirs, Pendleton's legacy passed to his extended family, many of whom entered public service. Despite his national contributions, Pendleton did not free any of his enslaved people in his will.
He died on October 23, 1803, and was initially buried at his estate, Edmundsbury. His remains were later moved to Bruton Parish Church in Williamsburg. Pendleton Counties in West Virginia and Kentucky are named in his honor.
Pendleton received his license to practice law in 1741 and built a successful legal career, eventually choosing to practice in the General Court. In 1751, he became a justice of the peace for Caroline County. He mentored numerous young lawyers, including his nephews John Penn and John Taylor of Caroline, both of whom rose to prominence. From 1752 to 1776, Pendleton represented Caroline County in the House of Burgesses.
Pendleton was a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, serving with George Washington and Patrick Henry. Although he sought reconciliation with Britain, he helped organize resistance and signed the Continental Association. As president of the Virginia Committee of Safety in 1775–1776, he led the colony during the move toward independence. He presided over the Virginia Convention that authorized its delegates to propose separation from Britain.
A hip injury in 1777 left Pendleton reliant on crutches, but he remained active in public life. He helped revise Virginia’s laws with Jefferson and Wythe and became the first president of the Supreme Court of Appeals in 1778, serving until his death. In 1788, Pendleton presided over the Virginia Ratifying Convention for the U.S. Constitution, where he championed its adoption with thoughtful moderation.
Pendleton married twice. His first wife, Betty Roy, died in childbirth. He later married Sarah Pollard, with whom he had no children. Without direct heirs, Pendleton's legacy passed to his extended family, many of whom entered public service. Despite his national contributions, Pendleton did not free any of his enslaved people in his will.
He died on October 23, 1803, and was initially buried at his estate, Edmundsbury. His remains were later moved to Bruton Parish Church in Williamsburg. Pendleton Counties in West Virginia and Kentucky are named in his honor.
Edmund Pendleton
Peyton Randolph
10 Sept 1721 – 22 Oct 1775
Home:
Tazewell Hall, Williamsburg, Virginia
Education:
Private tutors in Virginia, College of William and Mary, Middle Temple, London, England (studied law)
Profession:
Lawyer, King's Attorney for Virginia, Speaker of the Virginia House of Burgesses, President of the Continental Congress
Info:
Peyton Randolph was a pivotal figure in the early history of the American Revolution and a respected leader in colonial Virginia. Born in September 1721 at Tazewell Hall in Williamsburg, Virginia, Randolph came from a prominent and influential family. His early education was provided by private tutors, a common practice among the elite of colonial society. Randolph continued his education at the College of William and Mary around 1739, where he received a classical education that prepared him for a career in law and public service.
Following his time at William and Mary, Randolph pursued legal studies at the Middle Temple in London, one of the four Inns of Court, which was essential training for aspiring lawyers in the British colonies. His education in England not only provided him with a deep understanding of English law but also exposed him to the political and legal traditions that would later influence his leadership during the American Revolution.
In 1744, Randolph was appointed as the King's attorney for Virginia, a prestigious position that made him the chief legal officer of the colony. In this role, he was responsible for prosecuting cases on behalf of the Crown, a position that required both legal acumen and loyalty to the British government. Randolph served as King's attorney until 1754, after which his focus shifted increasingly towards legislative and political affairs.
Randolph's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1748. Over the next two decades, he became one of the most influential figures in Virginia's colonial government. His leadership skills were recognized when he was elected Speaker of the House of Burgesses in 1766, a position he held until 1775. As Speaker, Randolph presided over the legislative body during a time of growing tension between the American colonies and Great Britain. His role required careful navigation between the demands of the British authorities and the increasing desire for autonomy among the colonists.
Randolph's influence extended beyond the legislative chamber. In 1773, he was appointed chairman of the Virginia committee of correspondence, a network of colonial leaders that facilitated communication and coordination between the colonies in their resistance to British policies. This position was crucial in the lead-up to the American Revolution, as it helped to unify the colonies and lay the groundwork for collective action against British rule.
As the situation between the colonies and Britain deteriorated, Randolph emerged as a leading advocate for colonial rights. He was elected president of the Virginia conventions of 1774 and 1775, assemblies that played a key role in organizing Virginia's response to British aggression. These conventions were instrumental in moving Virginia toward independence, and Randolph's leadership was central to their success.
Randolph's national prominence was further solidified when he was elected as a delegate to the First Continental Congress, which convened in Philadelphia on September 5, 1774. His fellow delegates, recognizing his experience and leadership, elected him as the first President of the Continental Congress. This position was of great importance, as the Congress was the body that would ultimately steer the colonies towards independence. However, Randolph's duties in Virginia required his attention, and he resigned from the presidency on October 22, 1774, to attend the Virginia House of Burgesses.
Despite his resignation, Randolph's commitment to the colonial cause remained steadfast. He was reelected to the Continental Congress in May 1775, where he once again served as its President. His leadership during these critical months helped to guide the Congress as it grappled with the escalating conflict with Britain. Unfortunately, Randolph's service was cut short by his untimely death in Philadelphia on October 22, 1775, just as the colonies were on the brink of declaring independence.
Peyton Randolph was buried beneath the chapel of the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, a fitting resting place for a man who had dedicated his life to public service and the pursuit of justice. His legacy as a leader, legislator, and early advocate for American independence is remembered as a foundational part of the story of the United States. Randolph's contributions to the revolutionary cause, particularly his role in uniting the colonies and his leadership in the Continental Congress, established him as one of the key figures in the struggle for American independence.
Following his time at William and Mary, Randolph pursued legal studies at the Middle Temple in London, one of the four Inns of Court, which was essential training for aspiring lawyers in the British colonies. His education in England not only provided him with a deep understanding of English law but also exposed him to the political and legal traditions that would later influence his leadership during the American Revolution.
In 1744, Randolph was appointed as the King's attorney for Virginia, a prestigious position that made him the chief legal officer of the colony. In this role, he was responsible for prosecuting cases on behalf of the Crown, a position that required both legal acumen and loyalty to the British government. Randolph served as King's attorney until 1754, after which his focus shifted increasingly towards legislative and political affairs.
Randolph's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1748. Over the next two decades, he became one of the most influential figures in Virginia's colonial government. His leadership skills were recognized when he was elected Speaker of the House of Burgesses in 1766, a position he held until 1775. As Speaker, Randolph presided over the legislative body during a time of growing tension between the American colonies and Great Britain. His role required careful navigation between the demands of the British authorities and the increasing desire for autonomy among the colonists.
Randolph's influence extended beyond the legislative chamber. In 1773, he was appointed chairman of the Virginia committee of correspondence, a network of colonial leaders that facilitated communication and coordination between the colonies in their resistance to British policies. This position was crucial in the lead-up to the American Revolution, as it helped to unify the colonies and lay the groundwork for collective action against British rule.
As the situation between the colonies and Britain deteriorated, Randolph emerged as a leading advocate for colonial rights. He was elected president of the Virginia conventions of 1774 and 1775, assemblies that played a key role in organizing Virginia's response to British aggression. These conventions were instrumental in moving Virginia toward independence, and Randolph's leadership was central to their success.
Randolph's national prominence was further solidified when he was elected as a delegate to the First Continental Congress, which convened in Philadelphia on September 5, 1774. His fellow delegates, recognizing his experience and leadership, elected him as the first President of the Continental Congress. This position was of great importance, as the Congress was the body that would ultimately steer the colonies towards independence. However, Randolph's duties in Virginia required his attention, and he resigned from the presidency on October 22, 1774, to attend the Virginia House of Burgesses.
Despite his resignation, Randolph's commitment to the colonial cause remained steadfast. He was reelected to the Continental Congress in May 1775, where he once again served as its President. His leadership during these critical months helped to guide the Congress as it grappled with the escalating conflict with Britain. Unfortunately, Randolph's service was cut short by his untimely death in Philadelphia on October 22, 1775, just as the colonies were on the brink of declaring independence.
Peyton Randolph was buried beneath the chapel of the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, a fitting resting place for a man who had dedicated his life to public service and the pursuit of justice. His legacy as a leader, legislator, and early advocate for American independence is remembered as a foundational part of the story of the United States. Randolph's contributions to the revolutionary cause, particularly his role in uniting the colonies and his leadership in the Continental Congress, established him as one of the key figures in the struggle for American independence.
Peyton Randolph
The chair used by Peyton Randolph at the first Continental Congress held September 5 to October 26, 1774 at Carpenters Hall in Philadephia, PA. Located at Carpenters Hall 2017.
This chair is currently located at the American Revolution War Museum 2024.
Wren Chapel - Peyton Randolph is buried in the front right section in the basement. 2024
Wren Chapel Basement Map indicating the burial location within the chapel. 2024
Wren Building on the campus of William and Mary University. The burial site of Peyton Randolph. 2024
Peyton Randolph Home - Williamsburg, VA. 2024
Peyton Randolph Home - Williamsburg, VA. 2024
George Read
18 Sep 1733 – 21 Sep 1798
Home:
New Castle, DE
Education:
Rev. Francis Allison’s Academy, New London, PA; legal apprenticeship with John Moland, Philadelphia
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 was born on September 18, 1733, in Cecil County, Maryland, and raised near Christiana in New Castle County, Delaware. He studied at Rev. Francis Allison’s Academy in Pennsylvania and read law in Philadelphia with John Moland, being admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in 1753. A year later, he began practicing law in New Castle, Delaware.
Read married Gertrude Ross Till in 1763, and they had four children. He was appointed crown attorney general for Delaware in 1763 and served in that role until 1774. Politically active, he served twelve terms in Delaware’s Colonial Assembly and later became a leader of the moderate “Court Party.” Though cautious about full independence from Britain, he signed the Declaration of Independence after initially voting against it.
He led Delaware’s Constitutional Convention in 1776 and helped draft the state’s first constitution. Read also served as Speaker of the Legislative Council and briefly as the President (governor) of Delaware in 1777–1778 during the Revolutionary War, trying to defend the state against British incursions while government operations were disrupted by conflict.
From 1780 to 1787, Read remained active in the state legislature, including service in both houses of the General Assembly. He was also elected judge of the Court of Appeals in Cases of Capture. In 1786, he represented Delaware at the Annapolis Convention, leading to his role at the Constitutional Convention of 1787. There, he was a strong advocate for a powerful central government and equal representation for small states.
Following ratification of the Constitution, Read was elected U.S. Senator from Delaware, serving from 1789 to 1793. He supported the assumption of state debts, a national bank, and excise taxes. He resigned from the Senate to become chief justice of the Delaware Supreme Court, where he served until his death.
George Read died on September 21, 1798, in New Castle and is buried at Immanuel Episcopal Church Cemetery. He was one of only two Founders to sign four key founding documents. Remembered for his legal acumen and integrity, his home “Stonum” remains a historic landmark, and several institutions bear his name.
Read married Gertrude Ross Till in 1763, and they had four children. He was appointed crown attorney general for Delaware in 1763 and served in that role until 1774. Politically active, he served twelve terms in Delaware’s Colonial Assembly and later became a leader of the moderate “Court Party.” Though cautious about full independence from Britain, he signed the Declaration of Independence after initially voting against it.
He led Delaware’s Constitutional Convention in 1776 and helped draft the state’s first constitution. Read also served as Speaker of the Legislative Council and briefly as the President (governor) of Delaware in 1777–1778 during the Revolutionary War, trying to defend the state against British incursions while government operations were disrupted by conflict.
From 1780 to 1787, Read remained active in the state legislature, including service in both houses of the General Assembly. He was also elected judge of the Court of Appeals in Cases of Capture. In 1786, he represented Delaware at the Annapolis Convention, leading to his role at the Constitutional Convention of 1787. There, he was a strong advocate for a powerful central government and equal representation for small states.
Following ratification of the Constitution, Read was elected U.S. Senator from Delaware, serving from 1789 to 1793. He supported the assumption of state debts, a national bank, and excise taxes. He resigned from the Senate to become chief justice of the Delaware Supreme Court, where he served until his death.
George Read died on September 21, 1798, in New Castle and is buried at Immanuel Episcopal Church Cemetery. He was one of only two Founders to sign four key founding documents. Remembered for his legal acumen and integrity, his home “Stonum” remains a historic landmark, and several institutions bear his name.
George Read by Robert Edge Pine
Immanuel Church
Immanuel Church
George Read - 2021
George Read - 2021
Caesar Rodney
7 Oct 1728 – 29 Jun 1784
Home:
St. Jones Neck, Dover Hundred, Kent County, Delaware
Education:
The Latin School, Academy of Philadelphia (now University of Pennsylvania)
Profession:
Commissioned High Sheriff of Kent County, Elected to Colonial Assembly, Delegate to the Stamp Act Congress, Member of the Delaware Committee of Correspondence, Elected to Continental Congress, Military Leader, Elected President of the State of Delaware, Member of the Upper House of the State Assembly
Info:
Caesar Rodney, born on October 7, 1728, at his family’s “Byfield” plantation in Kent County, Delaware, was a prominent Founding Father and patriot during the American Revolution. The Rodney family, originally from England and Italy, was among Delaware’s early elite. Rodney inherited the family estate after his father’s death and was the only sibling to receive formal education, attending The Latin School in Philadelphia.
Rodney began his career in public service at age 27 when elected sheriff of Kent County. He went on to hold several key county positions, including register of wills, recorder of deeds, and judge in the lower courts. During the French and Indian War, he served as captain in the militia, although his unit never saw combat. Politically, Rodney aligned with the pro-independence “Country Party” despite his Anglican gentry roots, often working alongside Thomas McKean and opposing the more conservative George Read.
As a delegate to the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1776, Rodney was instrumental in securing Delaware’s vote for independence. Famously, he rode overnight through a storm on July 1, 1776, to Philadelphia, arriving just in time on July 2 to cast the decisive vote in favor of independence. He later signed the Declaration of Independence on August 2.
Rodney served as Delaware’s wartime president (governor) from 1778 to 1781, a role in which he coordinated defense efforts, secured supplies, and managed internal Loyalist threats. His leadership was pivotal during the state’s most vulnerable Revolutionary years, despite his failing health and ongoing battle with facial cancer. He also served briefly in the Continental Congress under the Articles of Confederation and returned to the state legislature before his death.
Rodney died on June 26, 1784, after years of suffering from asthma and cancer. He was buried in an unmarked grave on his estate near Dover. Though often overlooked today, he was one of Delaware’s most important Revolutionary figures. His legacy endures in monuments, schools, and counties bearing his name, and in his decisive role in the birth of American independence.
Rodney began his career in public service at age 27 when elected sheriff of Kent County. He went on to hold several key county positions, including register of wills, recorder of deeds, and judge in the lower courts. During the French and Indian War, he served as captain in the militia, although his unit never saw combat. Politically, Rodney aligned with the pro-independence “Country Party” despite his Anglican gentry roots, often working alongside Thomas McKean and opposing the more conservative George Read.
As a delegate to the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1776, Rodney was instrumental in securing Delaware’s vote for independence. Famously, he rode overnight through a storm on July 1, 1776, to Philadelphia, arriving just in time on July 2 to cast the decisive vote in favor of independence. He later signed the Declaration of Independence on August 2.
Rodney served as Delaware’s wartime president (governor) from 1778 to 1781, a role in which he coordinated defense efforts, secured supplies, and managed internal Loyalist threats. His leadership was pivotal during the state’s most vulnerable Revolutionary years, despite his failing health and ongoing battle with facial cancer. He also served briefly in the Continental Congress under the Articles of Confederation and returned to the state legislature before his death.
Rodney died on June 26, 1784, after years of suffering from asthma and cancer. He was buried in an unmarked grave on his estate near Dover. Though often overlooked today, he was one of Delaware’s most important Revolutionary figures. His legacy endures in monuments, schools, and counties bearing his name, and in his decisive role in the birth of American independence.
Caesar Rodney
Descendants of Caesar Rodney
Caesar Rodney - 2021
Caesar Rodney - 2021
George Ross
10 May 1730 – 14 Jul 1779
Home:
New Castle, Delaware
Education:
Home education; law apprenticeship with his brother
Profession:
Lawyer, Politician, Judge
Info:
George Ross Jr. was born on May 10, 1730, in New Castle, Delaware, and became one of Pennsylvania’s signers of both the Continental Association and the Declaration of Independence. Educated at home, he later studied law under the guidance of his brother and was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in 1750 at just 20 years old. He established a successful legal practice in Lancaster and married Ann Lawler in 1751, with whom he had two sons and a daughter.
His father, Rev. George Ross, was a Scottish Anglican clergyman who had 16 children. Through his sister Gertrude’s marriage to George Read, another Declaration signer, Ross was part of a well-connected political family. Ross’s lineage traces back to Scottish nobility, including Farquhar Ó Beólláin, 1st Earl of Ross.
Initially loyal to the British Crown, Ross served as Crown prosecutor from 1768 to 1776. Over time, he grew disillusioned with Tory politics and aligned himself with the Patriot cause. He was elected to the Pennsylvania provincial legislature in 1768 and later to the Continental Congress in 1774, 1776, and 1777. During this period, he also held the rank of colonel in the Pennsylvania militia and participated in key negotiations with Native American tribes.
In 1776, Ross served as vice president of Pennsylvania’s first constitutional convention, helping draft the state’s declaration of rights. He was the last of Pennsylvania’s delegates to sign the Declaration of Independence. In 1777, citing poor health, he resigned from Congress and accepted an appointment as Judge of the Admiralty Court of Pennsylvania.
Ross’s tenure as admiralty judge was marked by a significant states’ rights controversy. In 1778, when a congressional court of appeals overruled one of his decisions involving a dispute between a Connecticut citizen and Pennsylvania, Ross refused to recognize the higher court’s authority. This conflict became one of the early manifestations of the tension between state and federal power.
George Ross died in 1779 at the age of 49 while still serving as admiralty judge. He was buried at Christ Church Burial Ground in Philadelphia. His legacy endures not only through his role as a Founding Father but also as the uncle of Betsy Ross’s husband.
His father, Rev. George Ross, was a Scottish Anglican clergyman who had 16 children. Through his sister Gertrude’s marriage to George Read, another Declaration signer, Ross was part of a well-connected political family. Ross’s lineage traces back to Scottish nobility, including Farquhar Ó Beólláin, 1st Earl of Ross.
Initially loyal to the British Crown, Ross served as Crown prosecutor from 1768 to 1776. Over time, he grew disillusioned with Tory politics and aligned himself with the Patriot cause. He was elected to the Pennsylvania provincial legislature in 1768 and later to the Continental Congress in 1774, 1776, and 1777. During this period, he also held the rank of colonel in the Pennsylvania militia and participated in key negotiations with Native American tribes.
In 1776, Ross served as vice president of Pennsylvania’s first constitutional convention, helping draft the state’s declaration of rights. He was the last of Pennsylvania’s delegates to sign the Declaration of Independence. In 1777, citing poor health, he resigned from Congress and accepted an appointment as Judge of the Admiralty Court of Pennsylvania.
Ross’s tenure as admiralty judge was marked by a significant states’ rights controversy. In 1778, when a congressional court of appeals overruled one of his decisions involving a dispute between a Connecticut citizen and Pennsylvania, Ross refused to recognize the higher court’s authority. This conflict became one of the early manifestations of the tension between state and federal power.
George Ross died in 1779 at the age of 49 while still serving as admiralty judge. He was buried at Christ Church Burial Ground in Philadelphia. His legacy endures not only through his role as a Founding Father but also as the uncle of Betsy Ross’s husband.
George Ross
Joseph Hewes and George Ross - 2021
Edward Rutledge
23 Nov 1749 – 23 Jan 1800
Home:
Charleston, SC
Education:
Graduate of Oxford, Studied at Middle Temple (London), Member of the English Bar
Profession:
State Legislator, Representative to the Continental Congress, Captain, Charleston Battalion of Artillery, State legislator, College of Electors, Elected Governor for South Carolina
Info:
Edward Rutledge (November 23, 1749 – January 23, 1800) was an American Founding Father, lawyer, and statesman from Charleston, South Carolina. He was the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence and later served as the 39th governor of South Carolina.
Rutledge was born in Charleston, the youngest of seven children of Dr. John Rutledge and Sarah Hext. Following the path of his older brothers, he studied law in London at the Middle Temple and was admitted to the English bar in 1772. Upon returning to Charleston, he began a law practice with Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. In 1774, he married Henrietta Middleton, daughter of Henry Middleton. They had three children, although only two survived past childhood. Rutledge became a prominent Charleston citizen and enslaver, owning over 50 enslaved individuals.
During the American Revolution, Rutledge served as a delegate to the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1776. Initially instructed to oppose independence, he ultimately signed the Declaration at the age of 26. He returned to South Carolina in late 1776, where he served in the General Assembly and as a captain in the militia, fighting in the 1779 Battle of Beaufort. In May 1780, Rutledge was captured during the British siege of Charleston and held in St. Augustine, Florida, until a prisoner exchange in 1781.
After the war, Rutledge served in the South Carolina General Assembly until 1796, advocating for confiscation of Loyalist property and playing an active role in state politics. Though he had once opposed the Federalist Party, he supported President John Adams’s defense policies during the Quasi-War with France and broke ties with Thomas Jefferson, perceiving Republican alignment with French interests. He served two years in the state senate before being elected governor in 1798.
Rutledge’s term as governor was cut short when his health failed during a legislative session. He died on January 23, 1800, in Charleston. Contemporary accounts attributed his death in part to distress over the news of George Washington’s passing. His home, the Governor’s House Inn, is now a National Historic Landmark.
Rutledge was born in Charleston, the youngest of seven children of Dr. John Rutledge and Sarah Hext. Following the path of his older brothers, he studied law in London at the Middle Temple and was admitted to the English bar in 1772. Upon returning to Charleston, he began a law practice with Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. In 1774, he married Henrietta Middleton, daughter of Henry Middleton. They had three children, although only two survived past childhood. Rutledge became a prominent Charleston citizen and enslaver, owning over 50 enslaved individuals.
During the American Revolution, Rutledge served as a delegate to the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1776. Initially instructed to oppose independence, he ultimately signed the Declaration at the age of 26. He returned to South Carolina in late 1776, where he served in the General Assembly and as a captain in the militia, fighting in the 1779 Battle of Beaufort. In May 1780, Rutledge was captured during the British siege of Charleston and held in St. Augustine, Florida, until a prisoner exchange in 1781.
After the war, Rutledge served in the South Carolina General Assembly until 1796, advocating for confiscation of Loyalist property and playing an active role in state politics. Though he had once opposed the Federalist Party, he supported President John Adams’s defense policies during the Quasi-War with France and broke ties with Thomas Jefferson, perceiving Republican alignment with French interests. He served two years in the state senate before being elected governor in 1798.
Rutledge’s term as governor was cut short when his health failed during a legislative session. He died on January 23, 1800, in Charleston. Contemporary accounts attributed his death in part to distress over the news of George Washington’s passing. His home, the Governor’s House Inn, is now a National Historic Landmark.
Edward Rutledge by James Earl
2019 - Closed
Edward Rutledge - 2021
Edward Rutledge - 2021
John Rutledge
17 Sept 1739 – 21 June 1800
Home:
Charleston, South Carolina
Education:
Private tutoring, apprenticeship in Charleston, Middle Temple (London)
Profession:
Lawyer, Politician, Jurist, Chief Justice of the U.S.
Info:
John Rutledge was born in Charleston, South Carolina, on September 17, 1739, the eldest of seven siblings. Educated initially by his father and later by the Anglican scholar David Rhind, he began legal studies under his uncle and continued with James Parsons before traveling to London. At Middle Temple, he gained recognition in English courts and was admitted to the English bar in 1760. Upon returning to Charleston in 1761, he quickly became a prominent lawyer and political leader.
Rutledge began his public service in the South Carolina Commons House of Assembly (1761–1775). He rose to prominence during the Stamp Act Congress of 1765 and was elected to the Continental Congress in 1774, where he signed the Continental Association. In 1776, Rutledge became South Carolina’s president under its new constitution and oversaw the defense of Charleston, notably resisting British attacks at Fort Sullivan.
After resigning in 1778 in opposition to a revised state constitution, he was re-elected governor in 1779 as British forces advanced in the South. Rutledge assumed near-dictatorial powers from the state legislature to respond to the British invasion. Although Charleston fell in 1780, Rutledge avoided capture and led efforts to organize resistance until 1782. He then resumed legislative service and joined the Continental Congress until 1783.
Rutledge played a pivotal role at the 1787 Constitutional Convention, chairing the Committee of Detail that drafted the Constitution’s first full version. He supported a strong executive and helped shape key constitutional powers, including protecting the institution of slavery. Although initially opposing landowner-only voting rights, he defended slavery to maintain Southern support.
In 1789, President George Washington appointed Rutledge to the U.S. Supreme Court as an Associate Justice. He resigned in 1791 to serve on South Carolina’s court but returned in 1795 as Chief Justice via a recess appointment. After delivering a controversial speech against the Jay Treaty, his formal nomination was rejected by the Senate. His tenure lasted only 138 days—the shortest of any Chief Justice.
Following his rejection, Rutledge attempted suicide and withdrew from public life. He died on June 21, 1800, and was buried at St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Charleston. Though he claimed to dislike slavery, he defended slaveholders in court and owned slaves during his life.
Rutledge began his public service in the South Carolina Commons House of Assembly (1761–1775). He rose to prominence during the Stamp Act Congress of 1765 and was elected to the Continental Congress in 1774, where he signed the Continental Association. In 1776, Rutledge became South Carolina’s president under its new constitution and oversaw the defense of Charleston, notably resisting British attacks at Fort Sullivan.
After resigning in 1778 in opposition to a revised state constitution, he was re-elected governor in 1779 as British forces advanced in the South. Rutledge assumed near-dictatorial powers from the state legislature to respond to the British invasion. Although Charleston fell in 1780, Rutledge avoided capture and led efforts to organize resistance until 1782. He then resumed legislative service and joined the Continental Congress until 1783.
Rutledge played a pivotal role at the 1787 Constitutional Convention, chairing the Committee of Detail that drafted the Constitution’s first full version. He supported a strong executive and helped shape key constitutional powers, including protecting the institution of slavery. Although initially opposing landowner-only voting rights, he defended slavery to maintain Southern support.
In 1789, President George Washington appointed Rutledge to the U.S. Supreme Court as an Associate Justice. He resigned in 1791 to serve on South Carolina’s court but returned in 1795 as Chief Justice via a recess appointment. After delivering a controversial speech against the Jay Treaty, his formal nomination was rejected by the Senate. His tenure lasted only 138 days—the shortest of any Chief Justice.
Following his rejection, Rutledge attempted suicide and withdrew from public life. He died on June 21, 1800, and was buried at St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Charleston. Though he claimed to dislike slavery, he defended slaveholders in court and owned slaves during his life.
John Rutledge
Saint Michaels Church Cemetery - 2024
Saint Michaels Church Cemetery - 2024
Saint Michaels Church Cemetery - 2024
Saint Michaels Church Cemetery - 2024
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, who had humble beginnings, made significant strides in politics and law. He was integral in drafting foundational U.S. documents like the Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution. A multifaceted individual, he also published works on monetary theory and almanacs with his own astronomical observations.
Sherman's political career flourished in New Haven, where he contributed to local and national politics, including serving as a judge and a mayor, and was a benefactor of Yale College. His involvement in the Continental Congress was marked by his efforts in finance and legal reforms.
Toward the end of his career, Sherman played a crucial role at the Constitutional Convention, introducing the Great Compromise, which helped shape the structure of the U.S. Congress. He continued to serve as a U.S. Representative and Senator, advocating Federalist views until his death in 1793.
Sherman's political career flourished in New Haven, where he contributed to local and national politics, including serving as a judge and a mayor, and was a benefactor of Yale College. His involvement in the Continental Congress was marked by his efforts in finance and legal reforms.
Toward the end of his career, Sherman played a crucial role at the Constitutional Convention, introducing the Great Compromise, which helped shape the structure of the U.S. Congress. He continued to serve as a U.S. Representative and Senator, advocating Federalist views until his death in 1793.
Richard Smith
22 Mar 1735 – 17 Sept 1803
Home:
Burlington, Province of New Jersey
Education:
Private tutors and Quaker schools; studied law
Profession:
Lawyer, Politician, County Clerk, Continental Congressman, State Treasurer
Info:
Richard Smith was born on March 22, 1735, in Burlington, Province of New Jersey. He was the son of Richard Smith Sr., a member of the West Jersey Assembly, and Abigail Raper Smith. Raised in a Quaker family, he received his education under private tutors and in Quaker schools before pursuing legal studies.
Smith was admitted to the bar in 1762 and began practicing law in Philadelphia before returning to Burlington. That same year, he was commissioned as the county clerk of Burlington on December 7, 1762, marking the beginning of his formal public service career.
In 1774, Smith was selected to represent New Jersey in the Continental Congress. He served in the Congress from July 23, 1774, to June 12, 1776, during the critical early period of American resistance to British rule. While in Congress, he signed the Continental Association, a key economic agreement among the colonies aimed at pressuring Britain through non-importation and non-exportation policies. Smith resigned from the Continental Congress shortly before the vote on independence.
Smith remained active in New Jersey politics. In 1776, he served in the New Jersey Legislative Council, the upper chamber of the state legislature (now known as the New Jersey Senate). That same year, he was elected treasurer of New Jersey, a position he held until February 15, 1777, when he resigned.
Later in life, Smith relocated several times. In 1790, he moved to Laurens, New York, and in 1799, he moved again to Philadelphia. His final journey took him to the Mississippi Territory, where he died near Natchez on September 17, 1803. He was buried in Natchez Cemetery.
Although not a signer of the Declaration of Independence, Richard Smith played an important role in the early organization of colonial resistance and the formation of American self-governance. His service in both state and national capacities reflects a commitment to public service during a pivotal era in American history.
Smith was admitted to the bar in 1762 and began practicing law in Philadelphia before returning to Burlington. That same year, he was commissioned as the county clerk of Burlington on December 7, 1762, marking the beginning of his formal public service career.
In 1774, Smith was selected to represent New Jersey in the Continental Congress. He served in the Congress from July 23, 1774, to June 12, 1776, during the critical early period of American resistance to British rule. While in Congress, he signed the Continental Association, a key economic agreement among the colonies aimed at pressuring Britain through non-importation and non-exportation policies. Smith resigned from the Continental Congress shortly before the vote on independence.
Smith remained active in New Jersey politics. In 1776, he served in the New Jersey Legislative Council, the upper chamber of the state legislature (now known as the New Jersey Senate). That same year, he was elected treasurer of New Jersey, a position he held until February 15, 1777, when he resigned.
Later in life, Smith relocated several times. In 1790, he moved to Laurens, New York, and in 1799, he moved again to Philadelphia. His final journey took him to the Mississippi Territory, where he died near Natchez on September 17, 1803. He was buried in Natchez Cemetery.
Although not a signer of the Declaration of Independence, Richard Smith played an important role in the early organization of colonial resistance and the formation of American self-governance. His service in both state and national capacities reflects a commitment to public service during a pivotal era in American history.
Richard Smith
Major General John Sullivan
17 Feb 1740 – 23 Jan 1795
Home:
Somersworth, Province of New Hampshire
Education:
Read law under Samuel Livermore
Profession:
Lawyer, Continental Army Major-General, Politician, Federal Judge
Info:
John Sullivan (1740–1795) was a prominent figure in the American Revolution, serving as a Continental Army general, a political leader, and later a federal judge. Born in Somersworth, New Hampshire, he was the third son of Irish immigrants. Sullivan read law with Samuel Livermore and began practicing in Berwick, Maine, later moving to Durham, New Hampshire. Early in his legal career, he became known for aggressive foreclosure suits, but by 1772 had built strong community support. In 1760, he married Lydia Remick Worster, and together they had six children, including George Sullivan, later a U.S. Representative.
Sullivan entered politics as a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, where he signed the Continental Association. He helped lead a raid on Fort William and Mary, seizing British arms, and was later elected to the Second Continental Congress. Appointed brigadier general in 1775, he joined Washington’s army at Boston and took command in the failed Canadian invasion. Promoted to major general in 1776, Sullivan played roles in battles at Long Island (where he was captured), Trenton, and Princeton, and he commanded troops in the unsuccessful Battle of Rhode Island.
His most controversial military action was the 1779 Sullivan Expedition, a scorched-earth campaign against the Iroquois in western New York. Sullivan’s forces destroyed 40 villages, leading to mass displacement and hundreds of deaths from exposure and starvation. Though praised in New Hampshire, the lackluster congressional response led to his resignation from the army in 1779.
Sullivan was elected to Congress again in 1780, where he worked with French envoy de la Luzerne and advocated for Vermont statehood. He faced criticism for borrowing money from the French and retired after one term. He returned to New Hampshire as attorney general (1782–1786), presided over the state ratification of the Constitution, and served as governor (1786, 1787, 1789).
In 1789, President George Washington appointed him the first U.S. district judge for New Hampshire. Due to illness, Sullivan did not assume full duties until 1792. He died in 1795 in Durham and was buried on his family estate. Counties and towns across the U.S. bear his name in tribute.
Sullivan entered politics as a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, where he signed the Continental Association. He helped lead a raid on Fort William and Mary, seizing British arms, and was later elected to the Second Continental Congress. Appointed brigadier general in 1775, he joined Washington’s army at Boston and took command in the failed Canadian invasion. Promoted to major general in 1776, Sullivan played roles in battles at Long Island (where he was captured), Trenton, and Princeton, and he commanded troops in the unsuccessful Battle of Rhode Island.
His most controversial military action was the 1779 Sullivan Expedition, a scorched-earth campaign against the Iroquois in western New York. Sullivan’s forces destroyed 40 villages, leading to mass displacement and hundreds of deaths from exposure and starvation. Though praised in New Hampshire, the lackluster congressional response led to his resignation from the army in 1779.
Sullivan was elected to Congress again in 1780, where he worked with French envoy de la Luzerne and advocated for Vermont statehood. He faced criticism for borrowing money from the French and retired after one term. He returned to New Hampshire as attorney general (1782–1786), presided over the state ratification of the Constitution, and served as governor (1786, 1787, 1789).
In 1789, President George Washington appointed him the first U.S. district judge for New Hampshire. Due to illness, Sullivan did not assume full duties until 1792. He died in 1795 in Durham and was buried on his family estate. Counties and towns across the U.S. bear his name in tribute.
General John Sullivan
Matthew Tilghman
17 Feb 1718 – 4 May 1790
Home:
The Hermitage, near Centreville, Queen Anne's County, Maryland
Education:
Privately tutored
Profession:
Planter, Statesman
Info:
Matthew Tilghman (February 17, 1718 – May 4, 1790) was a Maryland planter and a key political leader during the American Revolution. He was born at The Hermitage, the family plantation in Queen Anne's County, Maryland, and was the grandson of Richard Tilghman, a British naval surgeon who had emigrated and established the family estate. Privately educated, Tilghman moved to Talbot County and later settled with his wife Anne Lloyd at Rich Neck Manor in Claiborne, Maryland.
Tilghman's public career began as a justice of the peace in Talbot County. In 1751, he was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates and remained in office through the colonial period, briefly representing Queen Anne’s County in 1760 and 1761 due to his landholdings there. He became Speaker of the House from 1773 until it ceased to function in 1775. During this time, he became an influential figure in Maryland's revolutionary movement.
An early participant in the resistance to British policy, Tilghman was active in Maryland’s committee of correspondence. From 1774 to 1776, he essentially led the revolution in the state, serving as chairman of the Committee of Safety and president of the revolutionary Annapolis Convention. He also led Maryland’s delegation to the Continental Congress, where he signed the 1774 Continental Association and supported the Declaration of Independence. Though he voted for its adoption, Tilghman was replaced by Charles Carroll of Carrollton before the final signing.
Tilghman returned to Maryland to preside over the Annapolis Convention that drafted Maryland's state constitution. As president of the convention and head of the drafting committee, he oversaw the creation of the Charter of Rights and Plan of Government. When the new state government took effect, he was elected to the Maryland Senate, serving until 1783 and acting as its president from 1780 to 1783.
In retirement, Tilghman attended to his estates near Rich Neck Manor. He died there on May 4, 1790, and was buried in the family cemetery. He and his wife Anne had five children, including Richard Tilghman, a Revolutionary War militia major, and Anna Maria Tilghman, who married her cousin Tench Tilghman. His legacy is preserved at both Rich Neck Manor and Sherwood Manor.
Tilghman's public career began as a justice of the peace in Talbot County. In 1751, he was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates and remained in office through the colonial period, briefly representing Queen Anne’s County in 1760 and 1761 due to his landholdings there. He became Speaker of the House from 1773 until it ceased to function in 1775. During this time, he became an influential figure in Maryland's revolutionary movement.
An early participant in the resistance to British policy, Tilghman was active in Maryland’s committee of correspondence. From 1774 to 1776, he essentially led the revolution in the state, serving as chairman of the Committee of Safety and president of the revolutionary Annapolis Convention. He also led Maryland’s delegation to the Continental Congress, where he signed the 1774 Continental Association and supported the Declaration of Independence. Though he voted for its adoption, Tilghman was replaced by Charles Carroll of Carrollton before the final signing.
Tilghman returned to Maryland to preside over the Annapolis Convention that drafted Maryland's state constitution. As president of the convention and head of the drafting committee, he oversaw the creation of the Charter of Rights and Plan of Government. When the new state government took effect, he was elected to the Maryland Senate, serving until 1783 and acting as its president from 1780 to 1783.
In retirement, Tilghman attended to his estates near Rich Neck Manor. He died there on May 4, 1790, and was buried in the family cemetery. He and his wife Anne had five children, including Richard Tilghman, a Revolutionary War militia major, and Anna Maria Tilghman, who married her cousin Tench Tilghman. His legacy is preserved at both Rich Neck Manor and Sherwood Manor.
Matthew Tilghman
Samuel Ward Sr.
25 May 1725 – 26 Mar 1776
Home:
Newport, Rhode Island
Education:
Private grammar school education in Newport
Profession:
Farmer, Politician, Judge, Governor, Continental Congress Delegate
Info:
Samuel Ward Sr. (May 25, 1725 – March 26, 1776) was a prominent Rhode Island political leader, farmer, and justice who played a significant role in the lead-up to American independence. He was born in Newport, Rhode Island, the ninth of 14 children of Rhode Island Governor Richard Ward and Mary Tillinghast. A descendant of Rhode Island founder Roger Williams, Ward received a solid education through private instruction and a well-regarded grammar school. He later married Anne Ray and settled on a farm in Westerly, Rhode Island, where he became known for his agricultural innovations, particularly breeding the Narragansett Pacer horse.
Ward began his political career in 1756 as a deputy from Westerly. He quickly became engaged in the heated controversy over hard money (specie) versus paper currency, opposing Stephen Hopkins, his chief political rival. The two alternated terms as governor over a decade, and their rivalry became one of the most divisive in Rhode Island politics. Ward also served briefly as Chief Justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court and became a trustee and generous supporter of the newly founded Rhode Island College, later Brown University.
During his third term as governor in 1765, Ward faced the highly controversial Stamp Act. As royal governors were expected to support it, Ward stood alone in refusing to take the oath of compliance, risking his office and reputation. His defiance made him a patriotic hero when the Act was later repealed. He retired from public office in 1767 but returned to prominence in 1774 when Rhode Island selected him as a delegate to the First Continental Congress.
In Congress, Ward served on several key committees, including the influential Committee on Secrets. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to the colonial cause, famously declaring, "Heaven save my country" as his guiding principle. Sadly, he died of smallpox in Philadelphia on March 26, 1776, just three months before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Samuel Ward and his wife had 11 children, including Samuel Ward Jr., who served as a Continental Army officer. His legacy lived on through descendants like Julia Ward Howe, composer of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” He is buried in Newport’s Common Burying Ground.
Ward began his political career in 1756 as a deputy from Westerly. He quickly became engaged in the heated controversy over hard money (specie) versus paper currency, opposing Stephen Hopkins, his chief political rival. The two alternated terms as governor over a decade, and their rivalry became one of the most divisive in Rhode Island politics. Ward also served briefly as Chief Justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court and became a trustee and generous supporter of the newly founded Rhode Island College, later Brown University.
During his third term as governor in 1765, Ward faced the highly controversial Stamp Act. As royal governors were expected to support it, Ward stood alone in refusing to take the oath of compliance, risking his office and reputation. His defiance made him a patriotic hero when the Act was later repealed. He retired from public office in 1767 but returned to prominence in 1774 when Rhode Island selected him as a delegate to the First Continental Congress.
In Congress, Ward served on several key committees, including the influential Committee on Secrets. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to the colonial cause, famously declaring, "Heaven save my country" as his guiding principle. Sadly, he died of smallpox in Philadelphia on March 26, 1776, just three months before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Samuel Ward and his wife had 11 children, including Samuel Ward Jr., who served as a Continental Army officer. His legacy lived on through descendants like Julia Ward Howe, composer of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” He is buried in Newport’s Common Burying Ground.
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Samuel Ward Sr.
Samuel Ward Sr.
George Washington
22 Feb 1732 – 14 Dec 1799
Home:
Mount Vernon, VA
Education:
Limited formal education, trained in land surveying
Profession:
Military officer, plantation owner, politician, first President of the United States
Info:
George Washington (February 22, 1732 – December 14, 1799) was a central figure in the founding of the United States, earning his reputation as “the indispensable man.” As the commander of the Continental Army, president of the Constitutional Convention, and first President of the United States, his leadership helped shape the nation's early course.
Washington was born into Virginia’s plantation elite. His formal education was limited, but he gained practical training in mathematics and geography while working as a teenage land surveyor. This experience later proved valuable in military strategy and terrain assessment. Following the death of his father when George was eleven, his older half-brother Lawrence became a mentor.
Washington’s first significant military experience came during the French and Indian War, where he commanded Virginia troops and participated in the 1754 Battle of Fort Necessity. Though not a brilliant tactician, Washington developed leadership and logistical skills that would benefit him later during the Revolutionary War.
In 1759, Washington married Martha Dandridge Custis, a wealthy widow, and became the stepfather to her children. The couple had no biological children. In 1761, Washington inherited Mount Vernon, a large plantation on the Potomac River, where he spent the next fifteen years managing his estate and serving in the Virginia House of Burgesses. His opposition to British colonial policies aligned him with the Patriot cause.
Elected to the First Continental Congress in 1774, Washington was appointed commander in chief of the Continental Army in 1775. He held the army together through years of hardship and scored critical victories at Trenton and Princeton in late 1776 and early 1777, revitalizing the revolutionary effort during a bleak period.
After British surrender at Yorktown in 1781, Washington retired to Mount Vernon. He returned to public service in 1787 to preside over the Constitutional Convention, where his support helped ensure the new Constitution’s ratification. In 1789, he was unanimously elected as the nation’s first president and served two terms.
Washington declined a third term and set the precedent for peaceful transitions of power. He died in 1799, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service, integrity, and national unity.
Washington was born into Virginia’s plantation elite. His formal education was limited, but he gained practical training in mathematics and geography while working as a teenage land surveyor. This experience later proved valuable in military strategy and terrain assessment. Following the death of his father when George was eleven, his older half-brother Lawrence became a mentor.
Washington’s first significant military experience came during the French and Indian War, where he commanded Virginia troops and participated in the 1754 Battle of Fort Necessity. Though not a brilliant tactician, Washington developed leadership and logistical skills that would benefit him later during the Revolutionary War.
In 1759, Washington married Martha Dandridge Custis, a wealthy widow, and became the stepfather to her children. The couple had no biological children. In 1761, Washington inherited Mount Vernon, a large plantation on the Potomac River, where he spent the next fifteen years managing his estate and serving in the Virginia House of Burgesses. His opposition to British colonial policies aligned him with the Patriot cause.
Elected to the First Continental Congress in 1774, Washington was appointed commander in chief of the Continental Army in 1775. He held the army together through years of hardship and scored critical victories at Trenton and Princeton in late 1776 and early 1777, revitalizing the revolutionary effort during a bleak period.
After British surrender at Yorktown in 1781, Washington retired to Mount Vernon. He returned to public service in 1787 to preside over the Constitutional Convention, where his support helped ensure the new Constitution’s ratification. In 1789, he was unanimously elected as the nation’s first president and served two terms.
Washington declined a third term and set the precedent for peaceful transitions of power. He died in 1799, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service, integrity, and national unity.
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.
Henry Wisner
1720 – 4 Mar 1790
Home:
Goshen, New York
Education:
Privately educated (not formally recorded)
Profession:
Miller, Politician, Judge, Revolutionary Patriot
Info:
Henry Wisner (c. 1720 – March 4, 1790) was a prominent early American Patriot from Goshen, New York. He gained prominence as a successful miller and public servant who took an active role in the political and military defense of the colonies during the American Revolution. His family descended from Swiss immigrants who arrived in New York in 1710 after military service under the Duke of Marlborough.
Wisner was first elected to the New York Assembly in 1759 and served for eleven consecutive years. In 1768, he was appointed a judge in Orange County’s Court of Common Pleas. As revolutionary sentiments rose, Wisner served in the New York Provincial Congress, which in turn named him a delegate to both the First and Second Continental Congresses.
At the Continental Congress, Wisner voted for American independence on July 4, 1776, though he was not present in August to sign the Declaration. His support is confirmed in several historical accounts, including a July 1800 newspaper reprint and a 1817 obituary of fellow delegate Thomas McKean.
While in Congress, Wisner identified the Continental Army’s need for munitions and returned to New York to build three gunpowder mills in Orange and Ulster Counties. These mills became a major supplier of gunpowder to George Washington's army, producing up to 1,000 pounds per week. He also financed Hudson River defenses, including cannon placements and, with Gilbert Livingston, helped plan the Great Chain at West Point to prevent British naval advances.
In 1777, Wisner helped draft New York's first state constitution and then served as a state senator until 1782. Following the war, he remained active in education and public affairs, founding an academy in Goshen and serving as a regent of the University of the State of New York.
In 1788, Wisner was a delegate to New York's constitutional ratification convention, where he opposed the U.S. Constitution due to concerns over centralized power infringing on state and individual rights.
He married Sarah Norton in 1739 and had several children. His son Gabriel died in the Revolutionary War, and his daughter Sarah married Major Moses Phillips, with whom Wisner manufactured gunpowder. Wisner died in Goshen in 1790 and is buried in Old Wallkill Cemetery.
Wisner was first elected to the New York Assembly in 1759 and served for eleven consecutive years. In 1768, he was appointed a judge in Orange County’s Court of Common Pleas. As revolutionary sentiments rose, Wisner served in the New York Provincial Congress, which in turn named him a delegate to both the First and Second Continental Congresses.
At the Continental Congress, Wisner voted for American independence on July 4, 1776, though he was not present in August to sign the Declaration. His support is confirmed in several historical accounts, including a July 1800 newspaper reprint and a 1817 obituary of fellow delegate Thomas McKean.
While in Congress, Wisner identified the Continental Army’s need for munitions and returned to New York to build three gunpowder mills in Orange and Ulster Counties. These mills became a major supplier of gunpowder to George Washington's army, producing up to 1,000 pounds per week. He also financed Hudson River defenses, including cannon placements and, with Gilbert Livingston, helped plan the Great Chain at West Point to prevent British naval advances.
In 1777, Wisner helped draft New York's first state constitution and then served as a state senator until 1782. Following the war, he remained active in education and public affairs, founding an academy in Goshen and serving as a regent of the University of the State of New York.
In 1788, Wisner was a delegate to New York's constitutional ratification convention, where he opposed the U.S. Constitution due to concerns over centralized power infringing on state and individual rights.
He married Sarah Norton in 1739 and had several children. His son Gabriel died in the Revolutionary War, and his daughter Sarah married Major Moses Phillips, with whom Wisner manufactured gunpowder. Wisner died in Goshen in 1790 and is buried in Old Wallkill Cemetery.
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