William Whipple
William Whipple
A Founding Father of New Hampshire and American Revolutionary
Full Name and Common Aliases
William Whipple was born in 1730 to Samuel Whipple and Sarah Foster Whipple in Kittery, Maine. He is commonly referred to as Colonel or Deacon.
Birth and Death Dates
Whipple was born on January 1, 1730, and passed away on November 28, 1785.
Nationality and Profession(s)
William Whipple was an American patriot, military officer, and politician. He served as a delegate to the Continental Congress from New Hampshire and was a member of the state's delegation to the New York Provincial Congress.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Kittery, Maine (then part of Massachusetts), Whipple was raised in a family that valued education and community involvement. His father, Samuel, was a merchant and a town official. William received a good education, which served him well throughout his life. In 1750, he married Mary Patch, with whom he had eight children.
Major Accomplishments
Whipple's significant contributions to the American Revolution include:
Serving as a delegate to the Continental Congress from New Hampshire (1776-1783)
Playing a key role in drafting and signing the Declaration of Independence (1776)
Participating in the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and Bunker Hill
Being appointed Brigadier General of the New Hampshire militia during the war
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to his military service, Whipple was involved in various other endeavors:
He helped draft the Constitution of New Hampshire (1784)
Served as a member of the state's delegation to the New York Provincial Congress (1775-1776)
Participated in the negotiations for the Treaty of Paris (1783)Impact and Legacy
William Whipple's impact on American history is undeniable. As a founding father, he played a crucial role in shaping the country's early years. His commitment to the principles of liberty and democracy continues to inspire Americans today.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Whipple's quotes and writings often reflect his strong convictions and passion for the American cause:
"It is not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog." (attributed)
* His commitment to public service and his leadership during the Revolution have made him a celebrated figure.
In conclusion, William Whipple was an important figure in American history. As a founding father, military officer, and politician, he played a pivotal role in shaping the country's early years.
Quotes by William Whipple
I fear a permanent Confederation will never be settled; tho the most material articles are I think got thro’, so as to give great offence to some, but to my Satisfaction.
Only nine States have been represented since my arrival till within three days. There are now Eleven States barely represented. This tardiness in the States or their Delegates, besides retarding the most important Business makes it exceeding fatiguing to those that do attend.
I think experience has shown that privateers have done more toward distressing the trade of our enemies, and furnishing these States with necessaries, than Continental Ships of the same force.
I wonder much that a court of Law should be in doubt whether a Resolution of Congress can superceed the Law of a Sovereign State.
I hope in time N. H. as well as the other States will feel the importance of Sovereignty.
In my opinion the greatest advantage we can at present expect from our Navy; for at this early period We can not expect to have a Navy to cope with the British.
The river route is certainly preferable, as it affords good grazing and an abundance of water.
Only nine States have been represented since my arrival 'till within three days. There are now Eleven States barely represented. This tardiness in the States or their Delegates, besides retarding the most important Business makes it exceeding fatiguing to those that do attend.
I fear a permanent Confederation will never be settled; tho the most material articles are I think got thro', so as to give great offence to some, but to my Satisfaction.
I am sorry to say that sometimes matters of very small importance waste a good deal of precious time, by the long and repeated speeches and chicanery of gentlemen who will not wholly throw off the lawyer even in Congress.