William Malcolm facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Malcolm
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Member of the New York State Assembly | |
| In office 1774–1774 |
|
| Personal details | |
| Born | 23 January 1745 Glenrothes, Scotland |
| Died | 1 September 1791 (aged 46) New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Spouses |
Abigail Tingley
(m. 1765; Sarah Ayscough
(m. 1772; |
| Children | Richard Montgomery Malcolm Samuel Bayard Malcolm |
| Parent | Richard Malcolm, Bt. |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Branch/service |  New York State Militia |
| Rank | Brigadier General |
| Battles/wars | Revolutionary War |
William Malcolm (born January 23, 1745 – died September 1, 1791) was an important person in New York City. He was a successful merchant, which means he bought and sold goods for a living. He was also a brave officer during the American Revolution. He led a group of soldiers called Malcolm's Regiment. A famous person named Aaron Burr was his second-in-command.
Contents
Early Life and Moving to America
William Malcolm was born in Glenrothes, Scotland, on January 23, 1745. His family was part of the Clan Malcolm. He was the third son of Richard Malcolm, who was a Baronet. A Baronet is a special title, like a knight, that you inherit.
In 1763, when he was about 18 years old, William Malcolm moved to New York City. He came to America to work for a business from Glasgow, Scotland. He quickly became a successful import and export merchant. His business was on Queen Street, which is now known as Pearl Street.
Becoming a Leader in New York
William Malcolm became very wealthy from his business. As he became more successful, he started to get involved in politics and government. He was a member of the New York State Assembly in 1774. This was a group that helped make laws for New York.
He also joined several important groups in the city. He was a member of the Society of St. Andrew. He held different roles in this group, like secretary and treasurer. He also became a founder of New York City's Chamber of Commerce. This group helps businesses grow.
Serving in the American Revolution
When the American Revolutionary War began, William Malcolm volunteered to serve in the military. He fought for New York and the Continental Army throughout the war. He even worked as a Deputy Adjutant General under General Horatio Gates. This role meant he helped manage the army's daily operations.
In 1777, Malcolm was given the job of leading his own group of soldiers. This group was called Malcolm's Additional Continental Regiment. He used his own money to pay for and equip his soldiers. He was a Colonel, which is a high rank. Even though he was the commander, Aaron Burr often led the soldiers in battle. This was because Malcolm had other important duties, like his work as Deputy Adjutant General.
Malcolm and his regiment fought in several important battles. These included the Battle of Long Island, the Battle of White Plains, the Battle of Trenton, and the Battle of Princeton. He also spent the difficult winter of 1777-1778 with the army at Valley Forge. Later, he commanded Continental Army forces in upstate New York.
Towards the end of the war, he was made a Brigadier General. He commanded the local soldiers, called the militia, in and around New York, Kings, and Richmond Counties.
After the War: Public Service
After the Revolutionary War, William Malcolm continued to serve the public. In 1784 and 1787, he was chosen to be part of the New York Provincial Congress. He supported Alexander Hamilton in allowing people who had supported the British (called Tories) to vote again. He also supported the new United States Constitution. This document set up the government of the United States.
In 1785, he was on the Board of Aldermen for New York City. This group helped govern the city.
One of his most notable roles was leading the militia that escorted George Washington. This happened when Washington took his oath of office as the first President.
Family Life
William Malcolm was married two times. His first wife was Abigail Tingley. They married in 1765, but she passed away in 1770. His second wife was Sarah Ayscough. They married on February 5, 1772.
William and Sarah had two sons:
- Richard Montgomery Malcolm (1776–1823), who married Ann Henry.
- Samuel Bayard Malcolm (1777–1817), who married Catherine Van Rensselaer Schuyler. Catherine was the youngest daughter of Philip Schuyler, another important figure in American history.
William Malcolm died in New York City on September 1, 1791. He was buried in the Brick Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Manhattan.
His Descendants
William Malcolm's family continued to be important in American society. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren included members of the well-known Bayard, Schuyler, and Montgomery families.
