Benjamin Rumsey (October 6, 1734 – March 7, 1808) was an American jurist from Joppa, Maryland. He served as a delegate for Maryland in the Continental Congress in 1776 and 1777. He served for over twenty-five years, beginning in 1778 until his retirement in 1806 as the first chief judge of the Maryland Court of Appeals. His record of longevity still stands today.
Early life
Benjamin Rumsey was born on October 6, 1734, to Sabina (née Blaidenburgh) and William Ramsey at Bohemia Manor in Cecil County Province of Maryland. After attending Princeton, he read law and was admitted to the bar. He settled in Joppa about 1768 and lived there the rest of his life.
Career
Rumsey was first elected to Maryland's lower house in 1771 as a member for Cecil County.
Rumsey died at home in Joppa on March 7, 1808