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William Ellery
Founding Father of the United States (1727–1820) / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
For his father, the merchant and politician, see William Ellery Sr.
William Ellery (December 22, 1727 – February 15, 1820)[1] was a Founding Father of the United States, one of the 56 signers of the United States Declaration of Independence,[2][3] and a signer of the Articles of Confederation as a representative of Rhode Island.[4]
Quick Facts 23rd Chief Justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court, Preceded by ...
William Ellery | |
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![]() Engraving of Ellery by Henry Bryan Hall | |
23rd Chief Justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court | |
In office June 1785 – May 1786 | |
Preceded by | Paul Mumford |
Succeeded by | Paul Mumford |
Personal details | |
Born | (1727-12-22)December 22, 1727 Newport, Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations |
Died | February 15, 1820(1820-02-15) (aged 92) Newport, Rhode Island |
Resting place | Common Burying Ground, Newport |
Occupation | Lawyer |
Known for | signer of the United States Declaration of Independence |
Signature | ![]() |
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In 1764, the Baptists consulted with Ellery and Congregationalist Reverend Ezra Stiles on writing a charter for the college that became Brown University. Ellery and Stiles attempted to give control of the college to the Congregationalists, but the Baptists withdrew the petition until it was rewritten to assure Baptist control. Neither Ellery nor Stiles accepted appointment to the reserved Congregationalist seats on the board of trustees.[5]