Samuel Powel has the distinction of being the last mayor of Philadelphia under British rule and the first after American Independence. Often referred to as Philadelphia’s “Patriot Mayor,” he is depicted as an early ardent supporter of the American cause. Join us as author David Maxey journeys back to the early years of the Revolution to take a closer look at Powel and his allegiance. Was Powel always a patriot or did he only gradually adopt the cause of liberty? To help answer that question, our speaker will draw on material from the collections of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Guests are invited to arrive at 5 p.m. to tour the Powel House. The lecture will be followed by a reception and book signing of A Portrait of Elizabeth Willing Powel (1743-1830).

Author’s Bio: David Maxey is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School. He joined the Philadelphia law firm of Drinker Biddle & Reath right after law school and remained with the firm in various roles for the next forty years through his retirement in 2000. He is an emeritus member of the boards of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania and the Library Company of Philadelphia. Among his publications are works on Henry Hill, the first owner of the Physick House, and Elizabeth Willing Powel and the portrait Matthew Pratt painted of her. Maxey previously served as a guide at the Powel House. His most recent book is titled Treason on Trial in Revolutionary Pennsylvania: The Case of John Roberts, Miller.