White Matlack facts for kids

White Matlack (born October 7, 1745, in Haddonfield, New Jersey – died January 7, 1824) was an important person in early American history. He was a Quaker from New York and a strong supporter of ending slavery. He also had several different jobs throughout his life, including being a watchmaker, silversmith, and even running a brewery.

Who Was White Matlack?

White Matlack was born to Elizabeth Martha Burr Haines and Timothy Matlack. Both of his parents had been married before. He had several siblings, including his brother Timothy Matlack.

On March 6, 1768, White Matlack married Mary Hawhurst. They had four children together: White, Timothy, Mary, and Hannah.

His Work and Businesses

White Matlack was a skilled craftsman. From about 1769 to 1775, he worked in New York City as a watchmaker and a silversmith. A silversmith makes things out of silver, like jewelry or dishes.

In 1775, he also worked in Philadelphia. Later, he ran a brewery, which is a place that makes beer. This brewery was near a famous place called the Fraunces Tavern. By the 1780s, he started a new business making steel.

Standing Up for What's Right

White Matlack was known for his strong beliefs and for fighting for what he thought was right.

The Free Quakers

White Matlack and his brother Timothy were part of the Quaker religion. Quakers are known for being peaceful. However, White and Timothy supported the American Revolution, which was a war for independence. Because of this, the main Quaker group "disowned" them. This meant they were no longer considered members of the traditional Quaker community.

In 1782, White Matlack and Isaac Howell wrote a document explaining why they and others had been disowned. They then helped start a new group called the Society of Free Quakers. This group allowed its members to support the American Revolution.

Fighting Against Slavery

White Matlack was a dedicated abolitionist. An abolitionist is someone who works to end slavery.

In 1786, he signed a letter to the government of New York State. This letter was against the shipping of enslaved African people through the port of New York. He wanted to stop this terrible practice.

Three years later, in 1789, he became a member of the New York Manumission Society. This society worked to free enslaved people in New York. In 1787, this society also founded the African Free School. This school provided education for children of formerly enslaved people.

Later Life and Death

White Matlack lived a long life. He died at the age of 80 in a place called Bay Side, near Flushing on Long Island.