06/15/2026
And in May of 1777 they moved him to Litchfield!
An American Moment, 250 years ago, June 14, 1776. Vote Of Censure on Governor Wm. Franklin, by the Provincial Congress, of New Jersey:
Resolved, That in the opinion of this congress, the proclamation of William Franklin, esq. late governor of New Jersey, bearing date the thirtieth day of May last, in the name of the king of Great Britain, appointing a meeting of the general assembly, to be held on the twentieth of this instant, June, ought not to be obeyed.
Resolved. That, in the opinion of this congress, the said William Franklin, esq. by such his declaration, has acted in direct contempt and violation of the resolve of the continental congress of the 15th day of May last.
Resolved, That, in the opinion of this congress, all payments of money on account of salary or otherwise, to the said William Franklin, esq. as governor, ought from henceforth, to cease; and that the treasurer or treasurers of this province, shall account for the monies in their hands to this congress, or to the future legislation of this colony.
By order of the congress.
A week later the New Jersey Convention informed Congress, ‘‘declaring him a virulent enemy to this country, and a person that may prove dangerous, and that the said William Franklin be confined in such place and manner as the Continental Congress shall direct;”
Congress then:
Resolved, That William Franklin be sent under guard to Governor Trumbull, who is desired to take his parole; and, if Mr. Franklin refuses to give his parole, that Governor Trumbull be desired to treat him agreeable to the resolutions of Congress respecting prisoners.
Principles and Acts of the Revolution in America, H. Niles, 1822, p.191.
Journals of Congress, June 24, 1776
© 2026 Clifford Olsen/1776 American Moments
