William Ellery

William Ellery, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, was born on December 22, 1727, at Newport, Rhode Island. His father was very interested in making sure William was well educated. William entered Harvard College where he distinguished himself as a good student, especially in Greek and Latin. He graduated from Harvard in 1747 at age 20 highly recommended by the faculty.

William then commenced a study of law and, after completing his studies, opened a practice in Newport. He was a successful lawyer for 20 years. He was called into public service by his fellow patriots when the colonists revolted. Ellery’s home was burned and nearly all of his property destroyed by the British because he was active in the cause of liberty.

Stephen Hopkins and William Ellery were sent to the general Congress as delegates from Rhode Island. William was an active member of the Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence on August 2, 1776. William served on several committees linked to the cause of liberty and independence, and his wisdom and sound judgment made him successful in his service.

William was married twice. He married Ann Remington, daughter of Hon. Jonathan Remington of Cambridge, Massachusetts in October 1750. The couple was blessed with seven children, four daughters and three sons. She died in 1764.

Three years after Ann’s death, William married Abigail, daughter of Nathaniel and Elizabeth Wanton Carey (or Cary) in 1767. William and Abigail were second cousins. Abigail was only 25 at the time of their marriage. Eight children were born to this couple, but only two lived to adulthood. Abigail died in 1793, many years before the death of her husband.

While serving as a judge of the Supreme Court of Rhode Island in 1784, William was chosen to be on the committee to whom the Treaty of Peace with Great Britain was referred. In 1795 he joined Rufus King of New York in an effort to have slavery in the United States abolished. In 1788 after the Constitution was adopted, he served as collector for the port of Newport and held that position until his death. He died on February 15, 1820, at age 92.