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York, PA

People

8 historical figures connected to York during the Revolutionary War.

Patriots & Founders

Philip Livingston

1716–1778

Continental Congress DelegateMerchantSigner of Declaration

New York merchant and signer of the Declaration who served in Congress during its York period. He died in York in June 1778, just before Congress returned to Philadelphia — one of the few delegates to die while actively serving.

James Smith

1719–1806

LawyerContinental Congress DelegateSigner of Declaration

York lawyer and signer of the Declaration of Independence who helped organize the local militia and hosted congressional delegates during their stay in York. His law office became a meeting place for delegates seeking unofficial counsel.

Daniel Roberdeau

1727–1795

Continental Congress DelegateBrigadier GeneralMerchant

Pennsylvania delegate who served in Congress at York and simultaneously held a commission as brigadier general of the Pennsylvania militia. He advocated for better army supplies and used his personal fortune to support lead mining operations for ammunition.

Mary Willis

InnkeeperBoarding House OperatorCivilian

York innkeeper who provided lodging for congressional delegates during the capital period. Her establishment was one of several in York that housed the displaced government, and she managed the difficult logistics of feeding and sheltering prominent guests during wartime shortages.

Michael Swope

York County OfficialMilitia LeaderPatriot

Prominent York County resident who helped organize local support for Congress during its residence, coordinating supplies and security. He represented the German-speaking community that formed the majority of York's population and facilitated relations between delegates and local residents.

Other Figures