From Privateer to Vice President (of Pennsylvania) - Charles Biddle
Charles Biddle was a privateer turned Vice President of Pennsylvania.
Big thanks to Janet for pushing me to do another Biddle. If you have a Founder you’d like me to cover, feel free to reach out!
Charles Biddle
The Biddle Family of Philadelphia had several important members of the American Founding, notably when it came to the sea.
Charles Biddle was no different.
As a ship captain, he quietly travelled to France in early 1776 where he obtained a generous store of gunpowder for the Continental Army.
During his return Biddle was severely hurt and attempted to secure a spot on the Navy Board but failed to do so.
Fortunately, he healed nicely and joined George Washington for the New York/New Jersey Campaign.
Twice Captured
Charles returned to the sea in the Autumn of 1776 but was captured and kept as a prisoner until the following year.
From there, Biddle served as a privateer before heading to North Carolina to marry Hannah Shepard.
He retired from the service but couldn’t stay away and took command of another privateer ship.
Again he was captured and this time kept in New York.
VP of PA
After finally being exchanged, Charles returned to Pennsylvania where in 1785 he was chosen as Vice President of the State’s Supreme Executive Council. This position is akin to the current office of Lieutenant Governor.
During this time, Philadelphia hosted the Constitutional Convention, and Biddle played host to many famous guests...including George Washington.
When the new Government took over, Charles became loosely associated with the local Democratic Society.
This affiliation led to Alexander Hamilton arguing against his appointment to a position in the Washington Administration.
Signing Currency
Over the following 20 years Charles served in several positions in Pennsylvania’s Government.
In 1812 he was appointed by President Madison as a person authorized to sign treasury notes for the Federal Government.
This, interestingly, led to some people criticizing him for being too much aligned with the Federalists.
Still, Biddle signed the notes for two years before eventually being replaced.
He retired to witness his sons become heroes during the War of 1812.
Want to read about some of Biddle’s syblings?
Great! Check out these articles:
Nicholas Biddle’s Ship Explodes - The Battle of Barbados
Edward Biddle - Radicalizing Pennsylvania
Rebecca Biddle Feeds Weary Continental Soldiers
Charles Biddle has a biography written by one of his grandchildren in the late 19th century.
Pick up a copy through the Amazon affiliate link below…
