Pioneer American Publisher.  Bradford established the American colony’s first press, in Philadelphia, after his emigration from England in 1683. He defended press freedom and was tried for sedition in 1692. He was not convicted and moved to New York where he became a Trinity Vestryman in 1703. He created the first edition of the Book of Common Prayer to be printed in America in 1710.  (bio by: BKGenie)  Family links:  Spouse:  Elizabeth Sowle Bradford (____ – 1731)*  Children:  Andrew Bradford (1686 – 1742)*  Ann Bradford Mercier (1719 – 1793)* *Calculated relationship Inscription:“Here lies the Body of Mr. WILLIAM BRADFORD Printer, who departed this life May 23, 1752, aged 92 Years.  He was born in Leicestershire, in Old England in 1660.and came over to America in 1682, before the City of Philadelphia was laid out.  He was Printer to this Government .upwards of 50 Years, and being quite worn out with Old age and labour, he left this mortal State in the lively Hope of a blessed Immortality.   Reader, reflect how soon you’ll quit the Stage.  You’ll find but few who atain to such an Age.  Life is full of Pain.  Lo here’s a Place of Rest.  Prepare to meet your GOD, then you are blest.Here also lies the Body of Elizabeth Wife to the said William Bradford, who departed this Life July 8, 1731 aged 68 Years.RESTORED WITH THE ORIGINAL INSCRIPTION BY THE VESTRY OF TRINITY CHURCH MAY 1863