Josiah Bartlett (November 21, 1729 – May 19, 1795) was an American physician, jurist, and statesman who played a prominent role in the early political life of the United States. He is best known as a signer of the Declaration of Independence representing New Hampshire and later served as that state's governor.
Early life and education
- Born in Amesbury, Massachusetts Bay Colony (now Massachusetts).
- Studied medicine under Dr. William Hartshorne and earned a medical license in 1749.
Medical career
- Practised as a physician in Hampton, New Hampshire, where he became a respected community leader.
Political career
- Member of New Hampshire’s Provincial Congress (1775–1776).
- Delegate to the Continental Congress (1775–1778, 1779–1780); signed the Declaration of Independence on August 2, 1776.
- Served as a judge of the Superior Court of New Hampshire (1782–1790).
- Elected Governor of New Hampshire, holding office from 1790 until his death in 1795.
Personal life
- Married twice: first to Mary Bartlett (née Twombly) in 1754, then to Betty Bartlett (née Prentiss) after Mary’s death.
- Fathered twelve children, several of whom were active in public service.
Legacy
- Recognized as a Founding Father for his involvement in the independence movement and early governance of New Hampshire.
- Namesakes include Bartlett, New Hampshire, and various streets and institutions in the state.
References
- United States Declaration of Independence archives.
- "Biographical Directory of the United States Congress," entry on Josiah Bartlett.
- New Hampshire State Library, Governor Josiah Bartlett papers.
