William Martin was born in Philadelphia on September 2, 1765 to English emigrants John and Mary Martin. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Medical School in 1786, and established a practice in Georgetown, VA. Three years later he returned to Chester, PA where he continued his medical career. In April 1789 Martin was chosen on behalf of the citizens of Delaware County, PA to give a welcoming address to George Washington on his way to New York for his presidential inaugural. At some point Martin began to study law, and was admitted to the practice in 1794. In 1797 he was appointed Justice of the Peace for Chester, Ridley, Middletown and Lower Providence in Delaware County. Martin died on September 28, 1798 after contracting Yellow Fever from the crew of a British ship under his care.
From the description of Papers 1757-1795 1785-1795. (University of Pennsylvania). WorldCat record id: 668111738
