Benjamin Chew, American lawyer and judge (b. 1721)

Benjamin Chew: A Pillar of American Colonial and Early Republic Law

Benjamin Chew (November 19, 1722 – January 20, 1810) stands as a monumental figure in American legal history, a fifth-generation American whose life spanned pivotal eras from the colonial period through the establishment of the United States. Born into a prominent Quaker family, his foundational Quaker values, emphasizing integrity and justice, subtly yet profoundly influenced his distinguished legal career. Chew was not merely a lawyer; he was a preeminent legal scholar and an exceptionally successful practitioner in Philadelphia, the burgeoning hub of colonial American law and commerce. His remarkable trajectory saw him ascend to the very top of the legal profession, serving as the head of the Pennsylvania Judiciary System, a rare distinction held under both the British colonial administration and the newly formed Commonwealth of Pennsylvania after the Revolution. Notably, he held the esteemed position of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Province of Pennsylvania, the highest judicial office in the colony, presiding over its most significant legal matters prior to independence.

Chew's professional reputation was built upon a bedrock of exceptional legal acumen. He was widely acclaimed for his extraordinary precision and brevity in constructing legal arguments, a quality that set him apart in a demanding legal landscape. This was complemented by his excellent memory, a keen sense of judgment, and an encyclopedic knowledge of statutory law, including British common law and colonial statutes. These attributes enabled him to navigate complex legal challenges with unparalleled clarity and effectiveness. Fundamentally, Chew's professional and personal allegiance was unwaveringly dedicated to the supremacy of law and the evolving constitutional principles that would eventually form the bedrock of the new nation.

Early Legal Training and Enduring Professional Relationships

Benjamin Chew's legal education was both rigorous and prestigious. He received his early training from the renowned Andrew Hamilton (c. 1676–1741), often lauded as one of the most brilliant lawyers of his time and famously known for his successful defense of John Peter Zenger in a landmark 1735 libel case that significantly advanced the concept of freedom of the press in America. This mentorship not only equipped Chew with superior legal skills but also connected him to an influential network, as he inherited many of Hamilton's high-profile clients.

Chief among these were the descendants of William Penn (1644–1718), the visionary Quaker founder and original proprietor of Pennsylvania. Chew's client roster included key figures such as Thomas Penn (1702–1775) and his brother Richard Penn Sr. (1706–1771), who were substantial landowners and held proprietary rights to vast territories. He also represented their sons, Governor John Penn (1729–1795), Richard Penn Jr. (1734–1811), and John Penn (1760–1834). This enduring relationship with the Penn family, the proprietors of Pennsylvania, formed the very foundation of Chew's private legal practice. He meticulously managed their intricate land claims, proprietary interests, and various legal affairs, representing them with unwavering dedication for an extraordinary period of six decades, highlighting the immense trust and confidence they placed in his legal expertise.

Influence on the Founding Era and Legacy

Beyond his formal legal practice, Benjamin Chew maintained a profound and lifelong personal friendship with George Washington, a relationship that underscored Chew's high standing within the societal and political circles of the era. This close bond was so significant that Washington was reportedly said to have treated Chew's children "as if they were his own," a testament to the depth and warmth of their connection.

Strategically positioned, Chew lived and practiced law in Philadelphia, a mere four blocks from the Pennsylvania State House—a building that would later gain immortal fame as Independence Hall. This proximity placed him at the very epicenter of the momentous events leading up to and during the American Revolution and the early years of the republic. Given his unparalleled knowledge of substantive law, particularly in areas like property law, constitutional precedents, and common law principles, Chew provided invaluable pro bono counsel to America's Founding Fathers. During the critical period of the creation of the United States Constitution and the subsequent Bill of Rights, his expertise served as a crucial resource, helping to shape the legal framework of the new nation and ensuring that its foundational documents were robust and legally sound. His commitment to the rule of law and constitutional order was a quiet but powerful force in these formative years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Benjamin Chew

Who was Benjamin Chew?
Benjamin Chew (1722–1810) was a prominent American legal scholar and lawyer from Philadelphia, known for his roles as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Province of Pennsylvania and head of the Pennsylvania Judiciary System under both colonial and Commonwealth rule. He was also a close associate of America's Founding Fathers.
What was Benjamin Chew's significance to American law?
Chew was highly respected for his precision in legal arguments, his knowledge of statutory law, and his unwavering allegiance to the supremacy of law. His expertise was vital during the formation of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights, where he provided pro bono legal insights to the Founding Fathers.
Who were Benjamin Chew's most notable clients?
After training with Andrew Hamilton, Benjamin Chew inherited a significant client base, most notably the descendants of William Penn, the proprietors of Pennsylvania. He represented the Penn family for six decades, managing their extensive legal affairs and property interests.
What was Benjamin Chew's relationship with George Washington?
Benjamin Chew shared a lifelong personal friendship with George Washington. Washington reportedly treated Chew's children "as if they were his own," illustrating the profound depth of their bond.