Thomas Mifflin: A Founding Father of the United States

Thomas Mifflin was born on January 10, 1744, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, then part of the British Province of Pennsylvania. He was the son of John Mifflin and Elizabeth Bagnall. His family traced its roots to John Mifflin Jr. (1662–1714), who emigrated from Warminster, Wiltshire, England, to Pennsylvania.

Casey Adams

1/16/20252 min read

Early Life and Family

Mifflin graduated from the College of Philadelphia (now the University of Pennsylvania) in 1760.

Following his education, he joined William Biddle's mercantile business. In 1765, after a trip to Europe, he established a commercial partnership with his brother, George Mifflin.

This enterprise marked the beginning of his career as a successful merchant.

On March 4, 1767, Mifflin married his second cousin, Sarah Morris.

Although Sarah did not have children of her own, her family included adopted relatives.

Their daughter Emily Mifflin married Joseph Hopkinson, the son of Founding Father Francis Hopkinson.

Family records describe the Mifflin daughters as "all beautiful women."

Political Beginnings and Role in the Continental Congress

Mifflin’s entry into public service began in the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly.

His leadership abilities quickly earned him a place in the First Continental Congress, where he signed the Continental Association in 1774—a collective agreement to boycott British goods in protest of the Coercive Acts.

Military Service in the Revolutionary War

When the Revolutionary War broke out in 1775, Mifflin joined the Continental Army, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the Patriot cause.

Initially serving as an aide to General George Washington, he was soon appointed Quartermaster General of the army.

In this role, Mifflin managed the procurement and distribution of supplies, a critical task during the war’s early years. His logistical skills and dedication led to his promotion to major general.

Despite facing criticism for supply shortages and accusations of mismanagement, Mifflin retained Washington’s trust and continued to serve the Continental Army with distinction.

His contributions to the war effort were instrumental in sustaining the army during challenging times.

Post-War Political Career

After the Revolutionary War, Mifflin returned to Congress in 1782 and was elected president in 1783.

During his tenure, he oversaw the ratification of the Treaty of Paris, which formally ended the war and recognized American independence.

Mifflin later served as speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1785 to 1787.

In 1788, he succeeded Benjamin Franklin as president of Pennsylvania’s Supreme Executive Council, effectively becoming the state’s chief executive.

Role in the Constitutional Convention and Governorship

In 1787, Mifflin was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. He played an active role in drafting and advocating for the U.S. Constitution and was one of its signers.

His support for a strong central government was pivotal during this transformative period in American history.

Following the Constitution’s ratification, Mifflin presided over the committee that drafted Pennsylvania’s state constitution.

In 1790, he became the state’s first governor, serving three terms until 1799.

As governor, he worked to stabilize Pennsylvania’s economy and governance in the young republic.

Later Life and Legacy

Mifflin left office in 1799, retiring from public service after decades of contributions to his state and country.

He passed away on January 20, 1800, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Thomas Mifflin’s legacy as a Founding Father of the United States endures through his diverse roles as a soldier, politician, and statesman.

His leadership during the Revolutionary War and his contributions to both state and national governance exemplify his dedication to the ideals of liberty and democracy.

Today, Mifflin is remembered as a figure who helped shape the foundation of the United States during its formative years.

Thomas Mifflin