Hilary Baker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hilary Baker
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| 49th Mayor of Philadelphia | |
| In office October 18, 1796 – September 25, 1798 |
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| Preceded by | Matthew Clarkson |
| Succeeded by | Robert Wharton |
| Personal details | |
| Born | February 21, 1746 |
| Died | September 25, 1798 (aged 52) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Resting place | Laurel Hill Cemetery |
Hilary Baker (born February 21, 1746 – died September 25, 1798) was an important American leader. He was known for fighting against slavery and served as the mayor of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He helped start the Pennsylvania Abolition Society. He also created Philadelphia's first police force with paid officers. Sadly, he was the first Philadelphia police officer to die while on duty.
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Hilary Baker: A Life of Service
Hilary Baker was born in 1746. He started his career as a merchant, selling hardware. When the American Revolutionary War began, he joined the Continental Army. This was the army that fought for America's independence.
Early Public Roles
After the war, Baker took on several important jobs. In 1779, he worked as a clerk for a court in Philadelphia. He also became a member of the Pennsylvania Constitutional Convention. This group helped write the laws for Pennsylvania. From 1789 to 1796, he served as an alderman. An alderman was a local government official.
Fighting for Freedom
Hilary Baker strongly believed that slavery was wrong. He was an abolitionist, meaning he worked to end slavery. He helped create the Pennsylvania Abolition Society. This group was one of the first in America to fight for the freedom of enslaved people.
A Leader During Crisis
In 1796, Hilary Baker was elected mayor of Philadelphia. He was re-elected in 1797. During his time as mayor, a terrible disease called yellow fever spread through Philadelphia in 1798. Many rich and powerful people left the city to stay safe.
However, Mayor Baker chose to stay. He wanted to help the city during this difficult time. He created Philadelphia's first police force. This force had 20 watchmen who were paid and wore uniforms. Their job was to protect the city from crime and looting.
Sadly, Mayor Baker caught yellow fever himself. He died on September 25, 1798. He was first buried at Zion Church. Later, his remains were moved to Laurel Hill Cemetery.
Hilary Baker was the grandfather of Elizabeth Van Lew. She was also an abolitionist and a spy for the Union Army during the American Civil War.
