Francis Hopkinson
Francis Hopkinson was born iin May of 1737, the son of Thomas Hopkinson of Philadelphia. He was educated at the University of Pennsylvania at an early age and began the study of law under Benjamin Chew. In 1765 he visited London where he continued two years making the acquaintance of the leading men of that metropolis and learning the political aspect and designs of the ministers toward his native country. He added largely to the fund of knowledge before acquired and came home prepared to work.Soon after his return he wed Miss Ann Borden of Bordentown New Jersey.
Francis Hopkinson was among the first delegates elected to the Continental Congress and was a signer of the Declaration of Rights. He succeeded George Ross as Judge of the Admiralty Court and was subsequently Judge of the U. S. District Court in Philadelphia.
Judge Hopkins died on May 9, 1791, leaving a widow, two sons, and three daughters to mourn his loss.