In her early childhood, the compiler of this volume was taught to revere the character of her ancestor, the subject of the following memoir. She has continued to feel a lively interest in everything touching his private and public life; and she cherishes what she deems to be a just pride of descent from one so worthy and honorable. Impressed with a feeling that a short sketch of his life and services would be acceptable to his descendants, and useful to such of them as are interested in American history, she has, for several years, given time and care to the collection of facts and records relating to his personal history, and his connection with public affairs, during the War of the Revolution. The labor incident to her task, in the way of necessary correspondence and the tedious examination of books and records, the collation of facts and dates, and preparation for the press, has been greater than one not familiar with such an undertaking, would suppose could be required; but it has been a labor of love, and has been willingly bestowed. Her reward will be full, if her relatives will but share with her the pleasure and profit of the study; and it is hoped that the facts and materials here collected and classified, will be found serviceable to some later writer, who will use them in the production of a work that will do ample justice to the memory of the distinguished patriot, whose name gives title to the present volume. To the memoir is added a genealogy, in which is set out as full a line of his descendants as could be obtained; and it is presented with a wish that it will be interesting and satisfactory. It certainly will convey to some of the family information not before possessed by them, and they will learn of their relationship with persons of whom they have not before heard: while some will here discover a consanguinity between themselves and others, whom they have known only as friends. It gives the writer pleasure to acknowledge the courtesy and assistance of Mr. John W. Jordan, personally and as an officer of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania; of Mr. Frederick D. Stone, Librarian of that Society; and of Dr. William H. Eagle, State Librarian. These gentlemen have responded cheerfully to every call that has been made upon their time and attention; and they have liberally placed at her disposal the data obtained by them in the course of their investigations into the history and character of Mr. Hillegas and his associates. EMMA ST. CLAIR WHITNEY. POTTSVILLE, PA., 1 January, 1891. |