Thomas TILLINGHAST, Congress, RI (1742-1821)

TILLINGHAST, Thomas, (cousin of Joseph Leonard Tillinghast), a Representative from Rhode Island; born in East Greenwich, R.I., August 21, 1742; completed preparatory studies; member of the State house of representatives in 1772 and 1773; held several offices under Revolutionary authorities; again a member of the State house of representatives 1778-1780; judge of the court of common pleas in 1779; member of the council of war; associate justice of the State supreme court 1780-1797; elected as a Federalist to the Fifth Congress to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Elisha R. Potter and served from November 13, 1797, to March 3, 1799; elected as a Republican to the Seventh Congress (March 4, 1801-March 3, 1803); died in East Greenwich, R.I., August 26, 1821; interment in Tillinghast Cemetery.

Source: Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, 1771-Present