Signer Series - Abraham Clark

Abraham Clark | Champion of the Common Man | Born February 15, 1726

Born in Elizabethtown (now Elizabeth), New Jersey, Abraham Clark grew up with physical limitations that kept him from heavy farm labor, but not from learning. With little formal schooling, he taught himself surveying and law, developing a talent for mathematics and a deep sense of justice. Clark became known as “the poor man’s counselor,” offering legal advice to those who couldn’t afford it and gaining the trust of his community.  

Clark’s commitment to fairness propelled him into public life. He served as clerk of the New Jersey colonial assembly, high sheriff of Essex County, and a member of New Jersey’s Provincial Congress as tensions with Britain rose. In June 1776, when New Jersey replaced delegates who opposed independence, Clark was appointed to the Continental Congress. There, he voted for freedom and added his name to the Declaration of Independence—a decision that carried real danger for him and his family.  

The war brought personal sacrifice: two of Clark’s sons, serving as officers in the Continental Army, were captured and imprisoned by the British, yet he steadfastly refused offers to switch sides for their release. After independence, Clark remained active in public service, attending the Annapolis Convention to address national governance and later representing New Jersey in the U.S. House of Representatives.  

He died in 1794, having dedicated his life to the principles of liberty, public service, and the belief that government should serve all people, not just the privileged few.