Pennsylvania politician and ironmaster.

Immigrated to Bucks County, Pennsylvania (1736). Worked as a bookkeeper and manager of various forges. Justice of the peace (1764). Pennsylvania assemblyman (1764-70, 1775-76); leader of proprietary party.

Opponent of Franklin, but a strong supporter of the Revolution. Delegate to provincial convention (1775). Appointed to Continental Congress (1776); signed Declaration of Independence. Represented Pennsylvania at Easton conference (1777). Member of Pennsylvania Supreme Executive Council (1777). Manufactured cannon balls for the Continental Army.

Probably born in northern Ireland. Married Ann (Taylor) Savage in 1742; two children. Also had five children by his housekeeper, Naomi Smith.