Michael Hillegas

1729–1804 (age 75)

Treasurer/Merchant

Biography

Michael Hillegas (1729–1804) served as the first Treasurer of the United States, pressing merchant experience into service for the Continental Congress and striving to keep the budding republic solvent despite persistent shortages.

He maintained ties to Christ Church, Philadelphia, where he worshipped and joined fellow citizens in supporting a city that had become the heart of early national life.