Matthias Pennypacker

Matthias Pennypacker (August 15, 1786 – April 4, 1852) was an American politician from Pennsylvania. He served as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing Chester County from 1827 to 1828 and in 1831.

Early life
Matthias Pennypacker was born on August 15, 1786, at Pennypacker's Mill in Schuylkill Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, to Mary (née Custer) and Matthias Pennypacker. His father was a farmer and a miller and was a preacher at a church in Phoenixville. Pennypacker grew up on the farm and was educated at subscription schools.

Career
Pennypacker worked as a farmer and a miller. He operated a sawmill and was a lumber dealer.

Pennypacker was a Whig. He served as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing Chester County from 1827 to 1828 and in 1831. He was a member of the 1837 constitutional convention. In 1831, Pennypacker was one of the organizers of the Reading Company and was an incorporator of the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad.

Personal life
In 1807, Pennypacker married Sarah Anderson, daughter of Isaac Anderson, of Schuylkill Township. They had four sons and one daughter, James A., Mary A., Isaac A., Washington and Matthias J. His son Matthias also served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. His grandson was Pennsylvania Governor Samuel W. Pennypacker. His great-grandson was Union General Galusha Pennypacker. Pennypacker was a Mennonite.

Pennypacker died on April 4, 1852, at his home on Pickering Creek in Chester County.