John Barclay

John Barclay (January 22, 1749 – September 15, 1824) was an American soldier, politician, and jurist. He served in the Continental Army during the American Revolution. He served as President Judge of the Courts for Bucks County, Pennsylvania, alderman in Philadelphia, and Mayor of Philadelphia from 1791 to 1793. He worked as president of the Bank of Pennsylvania and was one of the founders of the Insurance Company of North America. He served as a Federalist member of the Pennsylvania State Senate for the 1st district from 1811 to 1813.

Early life Barclay was born in Ballyshannon, Ireland He emigrated to colonial-era British America in 1778, as the American Revolutionary War entered its third year, and resided in the revolutionary capital of Philadelphia. He was a candidate in the 1792 U.S. House election for Pennsylvania's 13 at-large seats, where the top 13 would be elected; he finished 16th.

He became president of the Bank of Pennsylvania after the Pennsylvania General Assembly established its charter in 1793.

He was one of the founders of the Insurance Company of North America in 1792, and served as a director of the company until 1793.

Personal life He was married twice. He married his second wife, Mary Searle, at Christ Church in the present-day Old City section of Philadelphia on December 11, 1781, and they had five children.

Legacy The John Barclay Elementary School in Warrington, Pennsylvania, is named for him.