New Hampshire Signers of the Declaration of Independence

On July 4, 1776, Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. Three of the signers were from the state of New Hampshire. New Hampshire's noteworthy signers included a physician, a sea captain and a physician/judge. These men exemplified the diversity and dedication upon which the new nation was built. Josiah Bartlett, Matthew Thornton and William Whipple will be forever remembered for their courage, fortitude and unwavering loyalty to a vision which has become our reality.

Josiah Bartlett was the first delegate to sign the Declaration of Independence and was later elected the first president of the state of New Hampshire: 1790-1794. He was originally from Amesbury, MA and came to New Hampshire at the age of 21. Prior to the Revolution, he opened a medical practice and made his home in Kingston, NH. While Josiah certainly played a historic role in New Hampshire politics, it is important to remember that he was also an ordinary man who was devoted to his family. Josiah remained grounded in traditional values throughout the turmoil of the creation of a new nation.

Matthew Thornton is best remembered for being elected the first speaker of the House in the state of New Hampshire as well as for his involvement in the Provincial Congress and the NH state legislature. He was born in Ireland and eventually moved to Worcester, MA where he studied medicine. In 1740, he opened his medical practice in Londonderry, NH. He was very active in civil matters and served as both a legislator and a judge. At the time of the Revolution, Matthew was 61 years of age and was too old to serve in the army. Instead of active military service, he served in various provincial congresses and played an important role in the transition period from royal to provincial government.

William Whipple is certainly heralded as one of the Revolutions' greatest champions. He was born in Kittery, Maine and became a sea captain sailing the Atlantic Ocean to such destinations as the West Indies and Africa. Upon retiring from the sea, he became a merchant in Portsmouth, NH with his brother. William was actively involved in New Hampshire politics, but is best known for his exploits in battle. As a brigadier General, he led the state's militia in the battles of Stillwater and Saratoga and was one of the officers selected to negotiate the surrender of Gen. Burgoyne. William Whipple lived and breathed the Revolution's cause and did everything within his power to make the dream a reality.