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Timothy Matlack: The Scribe of the Declaration of Independence

Ken Simmons

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Timothy Matlack was born in Haddonfield, New Jersey, on February 17, 1730. His parents, White Matlack and Mary Eayre, were Quakers who instilled in him a strong sense of public service.

Timothy Matlack, Scribe of the Declaration of Independence

by Chris Coelho

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Matlack received a good education, and he apprenticed as a scrivener, a professional who specialized in copying and writing legal documents. In 1756, he moved to Philadelphia, where he worked as a clerk in the Pennsylvania Assembly.

In 1775, Matlack was elected to the Continental Congress, where he served on several important committees. He was also a member of the Committee of Safety, which was responsible for organizing the defense of Philadelphia against the British.

In June 1776, Matlack was appointed to the Committee of Five, which was charged with drafting the Declaration of Independence. The committee consisted of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Matlack.

Matlack was responsible for writing the final version of the Declaration of Independence. He used a quill pen and ink to create a beautiful and legible document. His penmanship was so elegant that the Declaration of Independence has been called "the most beautifully written document in American history."

The Declaration of Independence was signed on August 2, 1776. Matlack was one of the first signers, and his signature is clearly visible on the document.

After the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Matlack continued to serve in the Continental Congress. He also served as the Secretary of the Board of War and as the Adjutant General of the Continental Army.

Matlack retired from public service in 1781. He moved to Trenton, New Jersey, where he worked as a conveyancer, a lawyer who specializes in real estate law.

Matlack died in Trenton on April 15, 1829. He was 99 years old.

Matlack's Legacy

Timothy Matlack was a dedicated public servant who played a vital role in the American Revolution. He was the scribe of the Declaration of Independence, and his elegant penmanship helped to ensure that the document would endure for centuries to come.

Matlack's legacy is also preserved in the many historical documents that he wrote and signed. These documents provide a valuable record of the events of the American Revolution.

Timothy Matlack was a true American patriot, and his contributions to the founding of the United States should never be forgotten.

Timothy Matlack, Scribe of the Declaration of Independence

by Chris Coelho

4.5 out of 5