Richard Varick
Colonel, New York Militia

Richard Varick was born on 25 March 1753 in Hackensack, NJ.

American Revolutionary War

At the outset of the American Revolution, Varick was studying law at King's College (the former name of Columbia University) in New York City. He suspended his studies and became a Captain in the New York Militia. On 28 June 1775, he was appointed Captain of the 1st New York Regiment. He served under General Philip Schuyler in various posts until after the Battle of Saratoga when he was appointed inspector-general of West Point.

At West Point, he became an aide to General Benedict Arnold. Although he was no longer serving in this capacity when Arnold defected to the British, Varick, along with David Franks was arrested. They were subsequently cleared by a court of inquiry. After the West Point incident, Varick served under General George Washington as Private Secretary until the end of the war.

After the War

Varick was Recorder of New York from 1784-89, and New York State Attorney General from 1788-89. He was Mayor of New York City from 1789 to 1801. Along with Samuel Jones, Varick revised and standardized the statutes of New York (1788). He was a member of the New York State Assembly from New York County from 1786-88, and he was Speaker during the sessions of 1787-88. Meanwhile he served as a Colonel in the New York State Militia.

Later Life

Varick also served as a bank officer. He was a founder and later president (succeeding John Jay) of the American Bible Society, as well as a member of the Society of the Cincinnati and president of the New York chapter until his death. He was a member of, and a generous contributor to, many charitable organizations in New York City.

Having no children, he was survived by his wife, Maria. He left his estate to his wife and relatives.

Honors

The Town of Varick, NY, and Varick Street (where he once owned property) in Manhattan in the City of New York bear his name.

Death and Burial

Colonel Richard Varick died on 30 July 1831 in New Jersey City, NJ. He is buried at the First Dutch Reformed Churchyard in Hackensack, NJ.