Background
Manning, James was born on October 22, 1735 in Piscataway, New Jersey, United States. Son of James and Grace (Fitz-Randolph) Manning.
Manning, James was born on October 22, 1735 in Piscataway, New Jersey, United States. Son of James and Grace (Fitz-Randolph) Manning.
Graduated from College of New Jersey (now Princeton), 1762. Honorary Doctor of Divinity, University of Pennsylvania, 1785.
Ordained to ministry Baptist Church, 1763. In charge of founding Baptist directed institution in Rhode Island, 1763, a founder Rhode Island College (now Brown U.), 1763, granted charter by Rhode Island Assembly, 1765, 1st president, professor languages, 1765-1791. Pastor 1st Baptist Church, Providence, Rhode Island, 1771.
Represented Rhode Island in Congress of Confederation, 1786.
Member Providence School Committee. Drew up report recommending establishment of free public schools, 1791.
Member Providence School Committee.
Married Margaret Stites, March 23, 1763.