Stevens family.

John Stevens was born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, in 1715. He amassed his wealth as a shipbuilder and merchant, mainly trading with the West Indies. Later in life, Stevens expanded his business activities into land and mines in Hunterdon, Union, and Somerset Counties. As a board member of the Proprietors of East New Jersey, Stevens was involved in the boundary dispute between New York and New Jersey in the eighteenth century. Stevens also was vice president of the council of New Jersey from 1770 to 1782. In 1784, he was chosen as a member of the Continental Congress representing New Jersey. His political career culminated with presiding over the New Jersey ratification convention for the U.S. Constitution on December 18, 1787.

From the description of Stevens family papers, 1663-1959. (New Jersey Historical Society Library). WorldCat record id: 54032219