Joseph Fry
Biography
Revolutionary War Officer
Doorkeeper at the State House
John McGinley is buried at Old Pine Street Churchyard and a marker is in place signifying his participation in the Revolutionary War.
Convention held by the Abolition Societies of the United States
Revolutionary War Service
In 1777 and 1778, Joseph Fry did tours as a Captain Lt. in John Eyre’s artillery battalion under Captain Samuel Massey (First Company). Then in 1779, he was a conductor in the same company, which was then led by Captain John McGinley, Joseph’s brother-in-law.
In 1785, a Joseph Fry was a bombudier in the 5th company (James Pearson) artillery battalion of Philadelphia Militia commanded by Lt. Col. Joseph Marsh (of South Ward).
See the detailed log of Joseph Fry’s Revolutionary War service. (Password Required)
Advocacy
Joseph Fry was one of the signers of the Memorial of the First Company of Philadelphia Militai Artillery, 1779 (John McGinley’s Company). Read the Memorial.
Work At The State House
When William Hurrie became ill, Joseph Fry, his son-in-law (married to Martha), filled in for him. After William died, Joseph petitioned to replace William for the same pay that William was receiving. Joseph was accepted into the position and performed doorkeeper duties at least part-time until he resigned 18 years later.
During this time he was keeper of the State House, doorkeeper to the Pennsylvania Assembly, doorkeeper to the Constitutional Convention, and doorkeeper the for Convention held by the Abolition Societies of the United States.
See the detailed log of Joseph Fry’s work at the State House. (Password required)
Living Quarters Controversy
At one point, there was a move to charge Joseph Fry to live in the State House. This was dismissed as his predecessors had not paid to live there.
See Act of Exoneration for more details.
Later, it requested that Joseph Fry and his family, along with various other offices, be moved out of the west wing of the State House to make room for both chambers of the U. S. Congress and needed committee rooms. Living quarters were found for them; however, it was later determined that by moving into vacated office space, the Fry family could stay in the State House.
See more about the relocation to accommodate Congress.