Though not a member of the convention which formed the constitution of the United States, he was present at Annapolis, and aided by his advice. He also assisted Madison and Hamilton in writing the Federalist. In tlie convention of New York, he contributed to the adoption of the constitution. He was appointed chief justice by Washington, September 26, 1789. In 1794 he was appointed minister plenipotentiary to Great Britain and succeeded in negotiating the treaty which still goes by his name.

88 . HISTORY UF THE

He was governor of the state of New York from 1795 to 1801. The remainder of his life he passed in retirement at Bedford, in this county. He died 17th May, 1829. His remains are deposited in the family burying ground- By his wife, Sarah Vanburgh, daughter of ihe Hon. William Livingston, Governor of New Jersey, he left issue two sons, viz, the late Hon. Peter Augustus Jay, member of the State Assembly in 1813, recorder of New York in 1819, and delegate to the convention which framed the late constitution of the state of New York; and the Hon. William Jay of Bedford, for several years a judge of the late court of common pleas in this county ; besides four daughters.

The family residence is situated near the post road leading to Rye at no great distance from the river. The building is a handsome structure of wood, presenting a lofty portico on the north. The south front commands a beautiful lawn, and charming views of the Sound and Long Island. Some highly interesting family portraits adorn the walls of the hall and dining room ; amongst them are the following : Plon. John Jay, first chief justice of the United States, and governor of the state of New York. Head by Stewart, figure by Trumbull.