John Cleves Symmes
Politician
Early American politician and pioneer. He represented New Jersey in the Continental Congress and explored the United States' vast Northwest Territory.
After serving in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, he became a member of the New Jersey Legislative Council.
In a controversial move that became known as the Symmes Purchase (or Miami Purchase), he bought a large amount of land in Ohio.
He grew up in New York as the son of Mary Cleves and Timothy Symmes. His marriage to Anna Tuthill produced three daughters.
His son-in-law was ninth United States President William Henry Harrison. His great grandson Benjamin Harrison also became President of the United States.