Constitution Signer

 

Nicholas Gilman

 

 

1. Early Life
   a. State of residence, offices held, occupation

 Born: August 3, 1755

 Died: May 2, 1814

Occupation: Businessman of family store, real estate and land speculations, lending and investments, public security interests, politician, soldier

 

            Offices Held: Confederation Congress (1786-1788)

            Served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1789 until 1797

            Presidential Elector in 1793 and 1797

            Member, New Hampshire legislature in 1795, 1802, and 1804,

            New Hampshire State Treasurer in 1805-1808 and 1811-1814

 

2.  Role in the Revolutionary War

Gilman enlisted in the New Hampshire element of the Continental Army, soon won a captaincy, and served throughout the war.

 

3.  Participation in the Constitutional Convention – Contributions to the final document and final vote

 

      Gilman did not arrive at Philadelphia until July 23, by which time much major business had already occurred. Never much of a debater, he made no speeches and played only a minor part in the deliberations. He did, however, serve on the Committee of Leftovers. He was also active in obtaining New Hampshire's acceptance of the Constitution and in shepherding it through the Continental Congress.

4.  Federal Government and Congress

 

            Served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1789 until 1797

            In 1802, when he was defeated for the U.S. Senate, President Jefferson appointed him as a bankruptcy commissioner, and 2 years later as a Democratic-Republican he won election to the U.S. Senate.

 

5.  Death and Legacy

            He was still serving in the U.S. Senate when he passed away at    Philadelphia, while on his way home from Washington, DC, in 1814 at the age of 58.