George Taylor, Ironmaster and signer of the Declaration of Independence

• Early Life and Career: George Taylor was born in Ireland in 1716. He came to America in his twenties as an indentured servant to Mr. Savage, who owned an iron business. That is where he learned to be an ironmaster.
• Ironmaster: Mr. Taylor took over the iron business when Mr. Savage died and established the Durham Furnace in Pennsylvania. The furnace produced iron products and was a significant operation in the mid-18th century.
• Political Involvement: George Taylor became involved in politics and was elected to the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly in 1764. He was an outspoken advocate for American independence from British rule.
• Declaration of Independence: Taylor was a delegate to the Continental Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence, representing Pennsylvania.
• His signature is somewhat distinctive because he was one of the few signers who did not have a formal education, so he signed with a large, bold signature.
• Death and Burial: George Taylor died on February 23, 1781, in Easton, Pennsylvania. He was buried at the Easton Cemetery, also known as the Easton Circle Cemetery or the Easton Old Cemetery. This cemetery is located in Easton, Pennsylvania. Taylor’s grave, like many other historical graves, is marked with a headstone to commemorate his contributions to the founding of the United States.

George Taylor’s life is a testament to the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and his contributions to American independence are remembered through his signature on this historic document.