Joseph Hewes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joseph Hewes
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| Member of the Continental Congress | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | January 23, 1730 |
| Died | November 10, 1799 (aged 69) |
| Nationality | English, American |
| Alma mater | Princeton University |
| Signature |  |
Joseph Hewes (born July 9, 1730 – died November 10, 1779) was an important American leader. He is known as a Founding Father because he helped create the United States. He signed two very important documents: the Continental Association and the Declaration of Independence.
Joseph Hewes was born in Princeton, New Jersey. His parents were members of the Quakers, a religious group. He likely went to a grammar school run by the Quakers near Princeton. He may have also attended the College of New Jersey, which is now Princeton University.
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Early Life and Education
Joseph Hewes was born in Princeton, New Jersey, in 1730. His parents, Aaron Hewes and Providence Worth, were part of the Quaker Society of Friends. They moved to New Jersey right after they got married.
Like most Quaker children, Joseph helped his parents with farm work. He had a strict religious upbringing. He also received a public education. After college, he became an apprentice to a merchant. This means he learned the business by working for someone experienced.
A Successful Career in Business and Politics
After finishing his apprenticeship, Joseph Hewes became a respected and successful merchant. He earned a good reputation and became very rich. His success helped him become one of the most famous signers of the Declaration of Independence for North Carolina. He signed it along with William Hooper and John Penn.
When he was 30, Hewes moved to Edenton, North Carolina. The people there liked him because he was charming and honest in business. Just three years after moving, in 1763, Hewes was elected to the North Carolina legislature. He was re-elected many times.
Hewes was a leader for independence, second only to the delegates from Massachusetts. He encouraged North Carolina to become more rebellious in the years before the American Revolution. Later, he took on an even bigger role as a Continental Congressman. This was a very important job, helping to lead the colonies toward freedom.
Personal Life
Joseph Hewes was engaged to Isabella Johnston. She was the sister of Samuel Johnston, who became one of North Carolina’s governors. Sadly, Isabella died shortly before their wedding.
Joseph Hewes never married and remained a bachelor for the rest of his life. Even after her death, he stayed close friends with the Johnston family.
Death and Legacy
Joseph Hewes died on November 10, 1779. He was almost 50 years old. His funeral was held the next day.
Many important people attended his funeral. These included members of the Continental Congress, the General Assembly, and other leaders. He was buried with special honors in the Christ Church Burial Ground in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Joseph Hewes showed great support for American freedom from an early age. His fellow citizens chose him to be a delegate to the First Congress. He continued to serve his country with their full trust until his death. He was known for his strong mind and hard work. His public life was honorable and helpful, and his private life was kind and friendly. He was respected by many and loved by his friends. He died while serving his country.
