Charles Humphreys facts for kids
Charles Humphreys (born September 19, 1714 – died March 11, 1786) was an important figure in early American history. He represented Pennsylvania in the First Continental Congress. He also signed the Continental Association, which was an agreement among the American colonies to boycott British goods. Humphreys was born in Haverford, Pennsylvania. He worked as a miller, making flour from grain, and a fuller, who cleans and thickens cloth.
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Who Was Charles Humphreys?
Charles Humphreys was a delegate, or representative, for Pennsylvania in the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1776. This was a very important time when the American colonies were deciding their future with Great Britain.
A Voice in the Continental Congress
As a delegate, Humphreys played a role in the discussions that led to the American Revolution. He signed the Continental Association, showing his support for the colonies working together.
Voting on Independence
When it came time to vote on the Declaration of Independence, Charles Humphreys voted against it. He was a member of the Quaker faith, which believes in peace and avoiding conflict. He worried that declaring independence would make the Revolutionary War much worse. Because of his beliefs, he left the Congress soon after the vote. Even though he didn't fight in the war, he supported the American cause and believed that the British government was being unfair to the colonies.
His Business and Later Life
In 1782, Charles Humphreys became the owner of a grist mill and a fulling mill. A grist mill grinds grain into flour, and a fulling mill processes cloth to make it thicker and stronger. He continued his work in these businesses.
A Difficult Part of History
During his lifetime, Charles Humphreys, along with his two sisters, owned enslaved people. This was a common practice for some wealthy individuals in that period of history. Owning people was a difficult and unjust part of America's past.
Legacy
Charles Humphreys passed away in Haverford in 1786. He is remembered for his role in the Continental Congress and his unique perspective during the American Revolution.
