Roger Sherman

Roger Sherman was born at Newton, Massachusetts, April 19, 1721. He received a limited education, and learned the shoemaker’s trade. He afterward studied mathematics and law, and removed to New Milford, Connecticut, where he entered upon the practice of law. He soon became prominent in public affairs, and was elected a member of the Legislature.

He was appointed a judge of the Court of Common Pleas, and was also a member of the Governor’s Council. In 1774 he was elected a delegate to the Continental Congress, and continued in that body until 1781. He was present at the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, and affixed his signature to that instrument.

He was a member of the Convention which framed the Federal Constitution, and was one of its most influential members. He was afterward elected a Representative in Congress, and subsequently a Senator. He was a man of strong intellect and sound judgment, and was highly esteemed for his public and private virtues.

He died July 23, 1793, in the seventy-third year of his age.

Source:
Lossing, Benson J. The Lives of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence. New York: A.S. Barnes & Co., 1855. Patriot Echoes Archive