Michael Hillegas

(April 27, 1729 - September 29, 1804)

He was a merchant from Philadelphia who made his fortune in sugar refining and iron manufacturing.

Michael Hillegas was the first Treasurer of the United States. He was one of two Treasurers of the United Colonies (1775-1776). On August 6, 1776, the Continental COngress apointed him the sole Treasurer of the United Colonies (The United Colonies became the United States on September 9, 1776). He remained in this osition until October 3, 1801.



Larry Yungk, a descendant of Mr. Hillegas, adds the following:

Michael Hillegas was technically treasurer of the Continental Congress, from 1775-1789. In 1776, he rotated the job with another fellow, George Clymer, for six months. As a result, George was there on 4 July and signed the Declaration of Independence. Nevertheless, he held the treasurer post and did the work for the next 13 years!

He was good friends of Ben Franklin and John Adams with correspondence to him to be found in their collected works. He was an early member of the American Philosphical Society (with Franklin). He was also a quartermaster for the army for parts of the Revolution. He exhausted his own fortune supporting the revolution. He is buried next to Franklin in Philadelphia - very close to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall - and gets a mention on the plaque at the cemetary entrance. Another descendent pushed during the 1880's and 1890's to get him some belated recognition - and he was finally honored by being put on the Gold Certificate.