Edward Langworthy (Founding Father) facts for kids

Edward Langworthy (1738–1802) was an important American leader and teacher. He was a delegate from Georgia to the Continental Congress. He also signed the Articles of Confederation, which was an early agreement for the United States.

Edward Langworthy's Early Life

Edward Langworthy was born in Savannah, Georgia, in 1738. He was a foundling, meaning his parents were unknown and he was abandoned as a baby. He grew up in the Bethesda Orphan House in Savannah. This orphanage also had a school where he received his education. Later, he even became a teacher at that same school.

Edward was born just five years after James Oglethorpe brought the first colonists to Georgia. It's possible his parents were among the people recruited from places like debtors' prisons or poorhouses.

Role in the American Revolution

Edward Langworthy became involved with Georgia's Committee of Safety. This group worked to protect the rights of the colonists. He served as their secretary. On December 11, 1775, this committee became a revolutionary Council of Safety.

In 1777, the Georgia assembly chose him to represent them in the Continental Congress. This was a meeting of delegates from the thirteen colonies. He arrived in time to sign the Articles of Confederation. This document was the first constitution of the United States. He continued to serve in the Congress until 1779.

Life in Baltimore

In 1785, Edward Langworthy moved to Baltimore, Maryland. There, he married a young woman named Wright. They had four children together. Edward also bought a share in a newspaper called The Maryland Journal & Baltimore Advertiser. He became the editor of this newspaper.

In 1787, he sold his share of the newspaper. After that, he started working as an instructor at the Baltimore Academy.

Later Career and Death

In 1795, Edward Langworthy was given a new job. He became the clerk of customs for Baltimore. This meant he managed the taxes and duties on goods coming into the port. He held this important position until he passed away.

Edward Langworthy died on November 2, 1802. He passed away from yellow fever, a serious illness. He was buried at the Old Episcopal Church. However, the church was torn down in 1891. It is not known what happened to his burial site after that.