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William Foushee Sr. (October 26, 1749 – August 21, 1824) was an American medical doctor, politician, and socialite. After serving with distinction as a surgeon in the American Revolution, he entered into local Virginia politics, notably serving as the first Mayor of Richmond.[1][2] He went on to become a political, social, and commercial leader in Richmond for the next half century of his life.
William Foushee | |
|---|---|
 | |
| 1st Mayor of Richmond, Virginia | |
| In office July 3, 1782 – June 30, 1783 | |
| Succeeded by | John J. Beckley |
| Personal details | |
| Born | William Foushee October 26, 1749 Northumberland, Virginia, British America |
| Died | August 21, 1824 (aged 74) Richmond, Virginia, U.S. |
| Resting place | Shockoe Hill Cemetery, Richmond |
| Spouse | Elizabeth Harmondson |
| Alma mater | University of Edinburgh Medical School |
| Profession | Physician |
| Signature |  |
Foushee was born to John Foushee and Winifred (Williams) Foushee on October 26, 1749, in Northumberland County, Virginia.
A third-generation Virginian, Foushee's paternal grandfather James immigrated from France.
On March 6, 1775, Foushee married Elizabeth Isabella Harmondson in Northampton County, Virginia.
The couple had seven children:
- William Jr.
- John
- Nancy
- Margaret
- Elizabeth
- Charlotte
- Isabella
Isabella went on to marry founder of the Richmond Enquirer, Thomas Ritchie.
Physician
Foushee was highly regarded in the medical profession. He was a surgeon during the American Revolutionary War.[3] He was at one time President of the Medical Society of Virginia. He was also a first mover in the newly discovered smallpox inoculation.[4]
Mayor of Richmond
For the last sixteen years of his life, Foushee served in the capacity of Richmond's postmaster. He was appointed to that position on June 20, 1808, by President Jefferson.
On August 21, 1824, Foushee died in his home. His body is interred at Shockoe Hill Cemetery on Shockoe Hill in Richmond.
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