Charles Thomson (1729–1824) was an Irish-born American patriot, politician, and educator, best known for serving as the Secretary of the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1789. His tenure made him a key figure in documenting the proceedings of the Congress during the American Revolution.
Born in Maghera, County Londonderry, Ireland, Thomson immigrated to the American colonies as a child. He became involved in colonial resistance, aligning with the Sons of Liberty and advocating for independence. As secretary, he played a crucial role in recording congressional decisions and was one of only two people whose names appeared on the first printing of the Declaration of Independence.
Thomson also contributed to the design of the Great Seal of the United States, adding the Latin mottoes Annuit Cœptis and Novus Ordo Seclorum. After retiring from public life, he devoted himself to translating the Bible’s Old Testament from Greek, a significant scholarly achievement.
He passed away on August 16, 1824, in Pennsylvania. His legacy remains tied to his meticulous record-keeping and contributions to early American governance.
