Samuel Davies (clergyman)
Samuel Davies | |
|---|---|
| 4th President of Princeton University | |
| In office 1759–1761 | |
| Preceded by | Jacob Green (acting) |
| Succeeded by | Samuel Finley |
| Personal details | |
| Born | November 3, 1723 New Castle County, Delaware Colony |
| Died | February 4, 1761 (aged 37) Princeton, Province of New Jersey |
| Spouse(s) | Sarah Kilpatrick (1746–1747); Jane Holt (1748–1761) |
| Children | 6, including William |
| Profession | Evangelist, University President, Poet, Hymnist |
Samuel Davies (November 3, 1723 – February 4, 1761) was an evangelist and Presbyterian minister. Davies ministered in Hanover County from 1748 to 1759, followed by a term as the fourth President of Princeton University, then known as the College of New Jersey, from 1759 to 1761. Davies was one of the first non-Anglican preachers in Virginia, and one of earliest missionaries to slaves in the Thirteen Colonies. He was a strong advocate for religious freedom, and helped to institute significant religious reforms in the colony. Davies was also a prolific writer, authoring several hymns and publishing a book of poetry. He advocated for providing religious education to slaves.