William Ellery

Widowed twice. Lived into his 90s. Had 16 children. He has many direct descendants alive today.

Ellery chose to sit where he could see the face of each signer as he signed the Declaration. They all knew it could be their death warrant, but "undaunted resolution was displayed in every countenance."

During the War, British soldiers looted and partially burned his house. After the War, Ellery shifted from job to job until President George Washington kindly appointed him customs collector for Newport RI. This post provided him financial stability for 30 years, till he died.

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