Pennsylvania public official.

After studying law, began practicing (1763). Became a militia captain (1775). Secretary of the Board of War (1776-81).

Elected to one term in Congress (1782). Member of the Pennsylvania Assembly (1787-90); speaker, (1788-90). Served in the Pennsylvania Senate (1791-92). Became a United States district court judge for Pennsylvania (1792).

Maintained a farm and wrote on the subject of agricultural improvement.

Born in Philadelphia. Son of William and nephew of Richard Peters. Graduated from the College of Philadelphia (1761). Married Sarah Robinson (1776); six children.