Signer of the
Declaration of Independence; born in Middleton Place, on the
Ashley River, S. C., June 26, 1742; was educated at Harrow and Westminster schools,
England, graduating at Cambridge University in 1764.
After his marriage he became a planter, and in politics a leader of the patriots, and a most efficient member of the council of safety.
In 1776 he helped to frame the
State constitution, and was sent to Congress, where he voted for and signed the
Declaration of Independence.
In 1779 he took up arms in defence of
Charleston, and was made a prisoner when it fell, in 1780, when his estate was sequestered and he was sent a prisoner, first to
St. Augustine, and then to the prison-ship
Jersey.
In 1781 he was exchanged, and was a member of Congress from 1781 to 1783.
He was a skilful stenographer, and took notes of the debates in which he was engaged.
Mr. Middleton wrote some effective political essays over the signature of
Andrew marvel.
He died on
Goose Creek, S. C., Jan. 1, 1787.
His father,
Henry Middleton, was president of Congress in 1775; and his grandfather,
Arthur, who was born at
Twickenham, England, was often in public affairs in
South Carolina, as early as 1712.
His influence was always on the side of the people.
He was governor of the colony (1725-31), and was afterwards in the council.
