Abstract:
One of New Bern's most significant entrepreneurs during the 18th century, Leech arrived in North Carolina in 1750 from Philadelphia. He quickly established a large farming operation and a ferry, known as Leech's Ferry. He was a member of the North Carolina General Assembly from 1761-65 and served with the Provincial Congresses and Revolutionary War movement. He was part of teh delegation that welcomed President George Washington into New Bern in 1791.