Journalist and printer.

Began his printing apprenticeship c. 1755 in New Haven, Connecticut before moving to the New York office of Franklin associate James Parker, where he was in 1761.

Opened his own printing office in Providence, Rhode Island which he operated intermittently, occasionally leaving his mother in charge of the press (1762).

Printed the patriotic and inflammatory Constitutional Courant at James Parker's office (1765).

Operated a printing office in Philadelphia, initially with partners Joseph Galloway and Thomas Wharton (1766-74). Established an office in Baltimore, and while there he founded an alternative to the Royal Post Office which later became the basis for the United States Postal Service (1773).

Born in New London, Connecticut. Married in 1785 to Abigail Angell.