Matthew Thornton: From Surgeon to Statesman

Matthew Thornton's story begins in Ireland where he was born. At the tender age of four, young Matthew and his family embarked on a new adventure, crossing the ocean to settle in the American colonies. His early education was in common or classical schools.

Matthew Thornton's journey to America was not without hardship. Upon arriving, his family first settled in Maine. When their home was attacked and burned by Native Americans, they escaped by canoe and relocated to Massachusetts. he eventually pursued a career in medicine, becoming a respected doctor.

In 1760, at the age of 46, Thornton married Hannah Jack. Together, they would have five children and build a life rooted in family and community. 

One of Matthew Thornton's most significant contributions came in 1776 when he signed the Declaration of Independence at the age of 62. While he wasn't present for the initial vote, he took his seat on November 4th and added his name to the historic document.

Thornton was no stranger to serving his country. During King George's War, he served as a surgeon with his New Hampshire unit at the Battle of Louisburg in Nova Scotia. Later, he represented New Hampshire as a delegate to the Continental Congress from 1776 to 1778, and he held the position of President of the first Patriotic Provincial Congress in New Hampshire in 1775.

He was deeply committed to his state and country. As President of the New Hampshire Provincial Congress, he worked tirelessly for ten days straight, not even taking the time to change his clothes, to ensure the state's independence from British rule.

Thornton's dedication didn't stop there. In 1776, he became the Speaker of the New Hampshire General Assembly and served as a justice of the New Hampshire Supreme Court from 1776 to 1782 - quite an accomplishment for a medical doctor which shows how vast his skills were.

He was also an author, penning a work intriguingly titled "Paradise Lost, or, the Origin of the Evil called Sin, examined, or how it ever did, or ever can come to pass, that a creature should or could do anything unfit or improper for that creature to do." He was also known for his wit and character. He had a sharp mind and a quick sense of humor, and his dark eyes were said to reflect his intelligence.

Thornton hailed from a Scotch-Irish background and lived in a predominantly Presbyterian area, maintaining connections with both Presbyterian and later Congregationalist churches. Despite his deep religious beliefs, Thornton did not belong to any specific church. However, he was a devout Christian and a regular attendee of public worship, and his faith was noted by many biographers.

At his funeral, Rev. Dr. Burnap praised Thornton, saying, "He was venerable for his age, and skilled in his profession, and for the several very important and honorable offices he had sustained; noted for the knowledge he had acquired, and his quick penetration into matters of abstruse speculation."

Thornton was known for his generosity and kindness, always offering shelter to those in need and care to the sick without expecting anything in return. His dedication extended to his military service as well. During the Battle of Louisburg, only six men from his unit died from sickness, a testament to his skills as a doctor.

In conclusion, Matthew Thornton's life was one of service, dedication, and faith. He played a crucial role in the founding of the United States and left a legacy of compassion, intellect, and unwavering commitment to his community and country.

We hope this has been inspiring and insightful for you. If you would like to learn more about Dr. Matthew Thornton and the founding of our nation, check out these books and resources. Some links may be affiliate links, which means if you choose to purchase something via that link, we may receive a commission at no cost to you. This is a great way to help support our efforts and work here :)

Lives of the Signers: https://amzn.to/3W1uBjG

Able and Mighty Men: https://amzn.to/4fFaeQk

The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States: https://amzn.to/4gZx1XU

For You They Signed: https://amzn.to/3DAc4EP

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