Peter Hill (clockmaker) facts for kids

Peter Hill (born July 19, 1767 – died December 1820) was a very special American clockmaker. He was the first African American clockmaker. He was also the only African American clockmaker working in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Peter Hill showed great skill and determination.

The Story of Peter Hill

From Slavery to Freedom

Peter Hill was born on July 19, 1767. He was born into slavery. He lived on land owned by Joseph Hollinshead Jr. Joseph was a Quaker and a clockmaker. This was in Burlington Township, New Jersey.

When Peter was about 14, he started working for Joseph. He became Joseph's apprentice. An apprentice learns a skill from a master. Joseph helped Peter learn how to make clocks. He also helped Peter start his own clockmaking business. This happened before Peter became free.

In 1794, Peter was given a special paper. This paper was called a certificate of manumission. It meant he was officially freed by his master. He was certified as a free man in 1795.

Building a Business and a Family

Peter Hill married Tina Lewis on September 9, 1795. Tina was an educator. Peter and Tina lived in the same place as his clockmaking shop. He kept his business there for 23 years. Peter Hill was the first and only African American clockmaker of his time.

Around 1814, Peter moved his business. He moved it to Mount Holly, New Jersey. On February 29, 1820, Peter bought a large house in Mount Holly. He died in December of that same year. Peter Hill was buried in the Society of Friends' Burial ground. This is in Burlington Township.

Peter Hill's Legacy

Most of Peter Hill's clocks did not survive over time. Only five of his clocks are known to still exist today. One of Peter's clocks is very important. It is kept in the collection of the National Museum of American History. This shows how important his work was.