On This Day

Francis Hopkinson

Founding Father and jurist

Born: Died: American

Francis Hopkinson (October 2, 1737 – May 9, 1791) was an American Founding Father, lawyer, jurist, author, and composer. He designed Continental paper money and two early versions of flags, one for the United States and one for the United States Navy. He was a signer of the Declaration of Independence in July 1776 as a delegate from New Jersey.

Hopkinson served in various roles in the early United States government including as a member of the Second Continental Congress and as a member of the Navy Board. He became the first federal judge of the Eastern District Court of Pennsylvania on September 30, 1789.

Notable For

American Founding Father and jurist

Francis Hopkinson's Historical Timeline

  1. US Continental Congress adopts the Stars & Stripes flag, designed by Francis Hopkinson, replacing the Grand Union flag

    The Betsy Ross flag is a 1792 design for the flag of the United States that first appeared in a painting of George Washington at Trenton by John Trumbull.

  2. Francis Hopkinson dies

    Francis Hopkinson, American founding father and jurist, known for american founding father and jurist, died on 1791-05-09.

Associated Historical Events

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Francis Hopkinson born?
Francis Hopkinson was born on 1737-05-09 (American).
What is Francis Hopkinson known for?
American Founding Father and jurist
What historical events involved Francis Hopkinson?
Francis Hopkinson was involved in 2 recorded historical events, including US Continental Congress adopts the Stars & Stripes flag, designed by Francis Hopkinson, replacing the Grand Union flag, Francis Hopkinson dies.
When did Francis Hopkinson die?
Francis Hopkinson died on 1791-01-01.

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