Benjamin G Chew was born in Maryland to Quaker parents in 1722. His father, Samuel, was a physician and eventually became the Chief Justice of the Lower Counties, a territory that was then part of William Penn’s family. Growing up, Benjamin was educated in the Quaker faith and read law with Andrew, a distinguished Philadelphia lawyer.
As a young man, Benjamin G Chew was appointed as the Philadelphia County Prothonotary, a position he held for twenty-five years. During this time, he was also appointed to the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, a position he held for six years. In 1777, he was appointed as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, a position he held until his death in 1810.
In addition to his legal career, Benjamin G Chew was a member of the American Philosophical Society and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. He was also a trustee of the University of Pennsylvania and a trustee of the Library Company of Philadelphia.
Benjamin G Chew was a strong supporter of the American Revolution and was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He was also a member of the Continental Congress and a delegate to the Constitutional Convention. He was a strong advocate for the rights of African Americans and a supporter of the abolition of slavery.
Throughout his life, Benjamin G Chew was an active member of the Quaker faith and was a leader in the Quaker community. He was a member of the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting and served as a clerk for the Philadelphia Monthly Meeting. He was also a member of the Pennsylvania Abolition Society and the Society of Friends for the Relief of Free Negroes Unlawfully Held in Bondage.
Benjamin G Chew was a prominent figure in American history and his legacy lives on today. He was a leader in the legal profession, a supporter of the American Revolution, and a strong advocate for the rights of African Americans. His dedication to the Quaker faith and his commitment to justice and equality are still remembered today.
