Samuel Rhoads facts for kids

Samuel Rhoads (1711 – April 7, 1784) was an important American architect and politician. He served as the 59th mayor of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was also a close friend of Benjamin Franklin and helped create many important organizations in colonial Philadelphia.

Early Life

Samuel Rhoads was born in Philadelphia in 1711. His family were Quakers, a religious group known for their peaceful beliefs. His grandfather, John Rhoads, had moved from England to Pennsylvania to find religious freedom. Samuel first worked as a carpenter and builder. Later, he became a merchant, buying and selling goods.

Public Service

Samuel Rhoads began his political journey in 1741. He was elected to the Common Council of Philadelphia, which was like a city council today. He also designed the east wing of the Pennsylvania Hospital. This hospital was one of the first in America. He also served on the hospital's Board of Managers.

In 1761, Rhoads was elected to the Pennsylvania Assembly. This was a group of lawmakers for the colony. He believed in the idea of American independence, which was growing strong in the 1770s. He was chosen as a delegate to the First Continental Congress. This was a meeting of leaders from the American colonies. In 1774, he was elected Mayor of Philadelphia.

Community Leader

Samuel Rhoads was a good friend and partner of Benjamin Franklin. He played a big part in many important groups in colonial Philadelphia. He was an early Director of the Library Company of Philadelphia, which was one of the first libraries. He also helped start the Philadelphia Contributionship, an early fire insurance company. He was a Vice-President of the American Philosophical Society, a group that studied science and knowledge. He was also a leader in the Carpenters' Company of Philadelphia.

Samuel Rhoads passed away in 1784 at the age of 73.

Family Legacy

Samuel Rhoads had many notable family members. His grandson, Walter S. Franklin, became the seventh Clerk of the House of Representatives. His great-grandson, Samuel Rhoads Fisher, signed the Declaration of Independence for Texas. Samuel Rhoads Fisher also served as the Secretary of the Navy for the Republic of Texas. Another great-grandson, William B. Franklin, was a general in the American Civil War.