Samuel Eggleston Jr. (b. 6-28-1728 Middletown, Hartford County, Connecticut; d. 1-24-1822 (same)) was a signer of the “Articles of Association” of Dutchess County New York in July 1775. A call was issued for a new Provincial Convention or Congress, and in Volume I of the Calendar of Revolutionary Papers in the Secretary of State’s Office, Eggleston appears along with an entry about his wife, Hester Buck (m. 18 Mar 1761). The following is the background behind this document:
“The War of American Independence was an event of vast moment, affecting the destines of all nations. The question decided by the conflict was this: Whether the English colonies in America, becoming sovereign, should govern themselves or be ruled as dependencies of a European Monarchy. The decision was rendered in favor of separation and independence.
“The Convention adjourned April 22nd, and the day following New York learned of the battle of Lexington. The people of this province were then thoroughly aroused. The “Committee of Sixty” was increased to a “Committee of One Hundred,” and April 29, 1775, “the freeman, freeholders and inhabitants of the city and county of New York,” met and formulated “Articles of Association” sometimes called the “Revolutionary Pledge.”
References and Notes
“History of Little 9 Partners of N.E. Pct. & Pine Plains NY Dutchess Co.” Service Description: 1) Signer of Association Dutchess Co. NY Jul 1775.