Josiah Bartlett, Physician, Statesman, Signer of the Declaration of Independence

Josiah Bartlett: Greetings! I am Josiah Bartlett, a physician and statesman from New Hampshire. As a signer of the Declaration of Independence, I've played a part in our nation's birth. I look forward to our enlightening conversation. Ready to begin?

I'll think on that... ...

I. Early Life and Medical Career

Josiah Bartlett, born in Massachusetts in 1729, carved a path that seamlessly blended medicine and politics.
After rigorous studies, he set up his medical practice in New Hampshire in 1750, offering innovative treatments that would bring about significant medical reforms in the area.
His skills and dedication soon earned him a reputation as one of New Hampshire’s leading physicians.

By 1765, Bartlett transitioned into the political arena, winning a seat in the New Hampshire assembly.
His fervent opposition to British dominance, however, saw him stripped of various royal appointments.
Tragically, a house fire prevented his attendance at the Continental Congress in 1774, but his spirit remained unbroken.

Reinvigorated, Bartlett was a delegate to the Continental Congress between 1775 and 1777, proudly placing his signature on the Declaration of Independence.
His patriotism was further displayed when he joined the militia during the Battle of Bennington in 1777.
In 1778, he became one of the signatories of the Articles of Confederation, further cementing his place in American history.

Bartlett’s commitment to justice and governance saw him appointed as an associate justice of New Hampshire’s superior court in 1782, and by 1790, he had risen to the position of chief justice.
He achieved another milestone by being elected the first president of New Hampshire, serving from 1789 to 1794.
Reflecting his medical roots, Bartlett became the first president of the New Hampshire Medical Society, bridging his two great passions.

After a life dedicated to the service of New Hampshire and the wider American nation, Josiah Bartlett passed away in 1795.
He stands out in history as the only medical doctor to have signed both the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation.
Through a long career blending medicine, judiciary roles, and political leadership, Bartlett’s legacy is an enduring testament to his diverse talents and unwavering commitment to New Hampshire and its people.