Francis Lightfoot Lee
Francis Lightfoot Lee was the son of Thomas Lee. He was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia, on the 14th of October, 1734. His brother was Richard Henry Lee. Francis studied under Rev. Craig, a Scottish clergyman, and was sent to European seminaries to complete his education.Possessed an ample fortune, he could devote his time to what he deemed most advantageous. Having early imbibed a love for rational Liberty and fully canvassed the British ministry's conduct towards the American Colonies, Mr. Lee resolved to oppose the encroachments of the king upon the rights guaranteed by the English constitution. He could not consent that the trappings of the crown, the pomp of the courts, the extravagance of the ministry, and the expenses of the Parliament of Great Britain.
In 1765, he was elected to the House of Burgesses to represent Loudoun County, where his estate was situated. He took a bold stand in favor of rational Liberty. Blessed with a solid and investigative mind, a deep and penetrating judgment, a clear and acute perception, a pure and patriotic heart, and a bold and fearless disposition-he became one of the most efficient advisers in the legislative body. He continued to represent Loudoun County until 1772 when he married Rebecca, a daughter of Colonel Taylor of Richmond County. The same year, he was elected from his new district and continued to do good service in the House of Burgesses until he repaired to the Continental Congress. Amidst the gathering storm of the Revolution and the trying scenes that accumulated thick and fast around him-he stood unmoved and undismayed. He a
On the 15th of August, 1775, Mr. Lee was elected to the Continental Congress and served on numerous committees. He rendered essential aid in framing the Articles of Confederation that governed Congress and the Colonies during the Revolution.
Mr. Lee continued in Congress until 1779 when he declined re-election and retired from the public arena, but his enjoyment of domestic life was transient. He was elected to the Legislature of his native state and repaired to the post of duty. Lee died in April of 1797.