Thomas Wistar was born to a prominent Quaker family in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on March 17, 1764; his brother Caspar Wistar (1761-1818) was a noted physician. Thomas Wistar worked as a merchant in Philadelphia, and partnered with several local businessmen in the late 18th century. He dealt in goods such as fabrics and cotton and owned land in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. From 1787-1793, Wistar was professionally associated with Richard Adams. When Adams & Wistar dissolved in January 1793, Adams transferred the firm's debts and assets to Wistar. Thomas Wistar and his wife, Mary Waln (1765-1844), had several children; their son Thomas became an Indian commissioner.
From the guide to the Thomas Wistar collection, Wistar, Thomas collection, 1783-1801, (William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan)
