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Senatorial Profile

Senator William Maclay

William Maclay served as a senator for Pennsylvania (1789-1791).

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  • Born.
  • Entered office.
  • Left office.

William Maclay served as a Senator from Pennsylvania in the United States Congress from 1789 to 1791. A member of the Anti-Administration Party, William Maclay contributed to the legislative process during 1 term in office.

William Maclay’s service in Congress occurred during a significant period in American history. As a member of the Senate, William Maclay participated in the democratic process and represented the interests of constituents.

William Maclay (July 20, 1737 – April 16, 1804) was a politician from Pennsylvania during the eighteenth century. Maclay, along with Robert Morris, was a member of Pennsylvania’s first two-member delegation to the United States Senate. He assisted John Harris Jr. with the planning the layout of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in 1785, where Maclay Street is named for him. Following his tenure in the Senate, he served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives on two occasions, as a county judge, and as a presidential elector. He is known for his journal providing historical information on the 1st United States Congress.