Towns

NY, USA

New York State Constitution Adopted at Kingston

April 20, 1777

DateApril 20, 1777
Precisionday

The New York State Constitutional Convention adopted the first New York State Constitution on April 20, 1777. Drafted primarily by John Jay and Robert Livingston, the document established a governor, bicameral legislature, and court system — a working governing blueprint for a state already at war, tested almost immediately by the conflict that produced it.

People Involved

Robert R. Livingston(New York Statesman)

Member of the committee that drafted the New York State Constitution at Kingston in 1777. Later administered the oath of office to George Washington at the first presidential inauguration and negotiated the Louisiana Purchase.