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Mordecai: An Early American Family with a Rich History

Jermaine Powell

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Mordecai: An Early American Family

by Emily Bingham

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Language	:	English
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The Mordecai family is a prominent American family with a rich history dating back to the early days of the United States. Originally from Wales, the Mordecais immigrated to the American colonies in the 17th century and quickly established themselves as influential citizens. Over the centuries, members of the family have made significant contributions to American history, particularly in the areas of politics, law, and military service.

Early History

The Mordecai family traces its origins to the town of Cardigan, Wales. In the early 17th century, a young man named Moses Mordecai left Cardigan and traveled to the American colonies in search of a new life. He settled in the colony of Maryland, where he married and raised a family.

Moses Mordecai's son, Jacob, was born in Maryland in 1660. Jacob followed in his father's footsteps and became a successful merchant and planter. He also served in the Maryland House of Delegates, where he represented his county for many years.

Jacob Mordecai's son, Samuel, was born in Maryland in 1694. Samuel was a talented lawyer and politician. He served in the Maryland House of Delegates and the Maryland Senate. He was also a member of the Continental Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence.

The Mordecais in the American Revolution

During the American Revolution, the Mordecai family played a significant role in the fight for independence. Samuel Mordecai served as a delegate to the Continental Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence. His brother, Jacob, Jr., served as an officer in the Continental Army.

Another member of the Mordecai family, Moses Mordecai, Jr., was a successful merchant and planter in North Carolina. He was a close friend of George Washington and served as a financial advisor to the Continental Army.

The Mordecais' support for the American Revolution did not come without cost. Jacob Mordecai, Jr., was captured by the British and held as a prisoner of war for several years. Moses Mordecai, Jr., had his property confiscated by the British.

The Post-Revolution Era

After the American Revolution, the Mordecai family continued to play a prominent role in American society. Samuel Mordecai served as a judge on the Maryland Court of Appeals. His son, Jacob, III, was a successful lawyer and politician. He served in the Maryland House of Delegates and the Maryland Senate.

Moses Mordecai, Jr., returned to North Carolina after the war and resumed his business activities. He became a successful planter and merchant. He also served in the North Carolina House of Commons and the North Carolina Senate.

The Mordecai family continued to grow and prosper in the years that followed the American Revolution. Members of the family established themselves in various parts of the country, including North Carolina, Maryland, South Carolina, and Georgia.

Notable Mordecais

Over the years, the Mordecai family has produced a number of notable individuals, including:

Moses Mordecai (1620-1697): Immigrant ancestor of the Mordecai family in America
Jacob Mordecai (1660-1731): Merchant and planter; served in the Maryland House of Delegates
Samuel Mordecai (1694-1772): Lawyer and politician; signed the Declaration of Independence
Jacob Mordecai, Jr. (1726-1798): Officer in the Continental Army
Moses Mordecai, Jr. (1734-1814): Merchant and planter; financial advisor to the Continental Army
Jacob Mordecai, III (1759-1837): Lawyer and politician; served in the Maryland House of Delegates and the Maryland Senate
Alfred Mordecai (1804-1881): Soldier and educator; served as superintendent of the United States Military Academy at West Point
Benjamin Mordecai (1819-1896): Lawyer and politician; served in the North Carolina Senate
Moses Mordecai (1830-1894): Physician and philanthropist
Benjamin Mordecai, Jr. (1832-1924): Lawyer and politician; served in the United States Congress

Mordecai House

The Mordecai House is a historic house in Raleigh, North Carolina, that was built by Moses Mordecai, Jr., in 1772. The house is a fine example of Georgian architecture and is one of the oldest houses in Raleigh. It is now a museum that is open to the public.

Mordecai House In Raleigh, North Carolina Mordecai: An Early American Family

The Mordecai House is a historic house in Raleigh, North Carolina, that was built by Moses Mordecai, Jr., in 1772.

Legacy

The Mordecai family has made a significant contribution to American history. Members of the family have served in all branches of the United States government, including the presidency, the Supreme Court, and the Congress. They have also served in the military, the judiciary, and the diplomatic corps.

The Mordecai family is a reminder of the many immigrants who have come to America in search of a better life and have made lasting contributions to our nation.