Birth of the Nation: The First Federal Congress 1789-1791
The First Federal Congress

Senator William Paterson

William Paterson, Governor of New Jersey

Painting by Mrs. B. S. Church after James Sharples (1752-1811)

Courtesy of the Princeton University Art Museum

William Paterson
Image Information and Source

Life dates: 24 December 1745-9 September 1806
Place of Residence (1789): New Brunswick, New Jersey
Occupation (1789): Lawyer; Merchant
Place of Birth: County Antrim, Ireland
Age (March 4, 1789): 43
Religion (1789): Unknown
College Education: College of New Jersey [Princeton ]
Marital Status (1789): Married
Military Service during the Revolutionary War: Officer, County Militia
Prior Political Offices: Provincial Congress, State Legislature
State Attorney General
Delegate to Federal Convention: Yes
Delegate to State Ratification Convention: No
Pro/Anti ratification of Constitution: Pro
Support for strong central government (particularly in its executive functions) Strong
Last year of continuous service in Senate: 1790
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