Timothy Pickering 1745 – 1829

Biography

Timothy Pickering was born on July 17, 1745, in Salem, Massachusetts, where he would spend much of his life devoted to public service. Over his long career spanning decades, he established himself as a significant figure in American political life during the nation’s formative years. His work as a statesman reflected the values and challenges of his era, contributing meaningfully to the early development of the United States.

Throughout his life, Pickering remained deeply connected to his Salem roots, embodying the civic responsibility that characterized many of his generation. He passed away on January 29, 1829, at the age of eighty-three, having witnessed and participated in the transformation of thirteen colonies into a sovereign nation. His final resting place at Broad Street Cemetery in Salem stands as a testament to his enduring legacy in his native community.

The arc of Timothy Pickering’s life—from his birth in mid-eighteenth-century Salem to his death in the early decades of American independence—represents a life shaped by service and commitment to his country during pivotal moments in its history. Though details of his personal life remain modest in record, his contributions to American statecraft ensured his place in the nation’s story.