Robert Aitken, Sr. (1735-1802)

Robert Aitken was the son of James Aitken and Anne Hall. He moved to Philadelphia from Scotland in 1769 and became a bookseller, publisher, and printer who did business with Tom Paine & Benjamin Franklin.

Birth

1/22/1735 in Dalkeith, Midlothian, Scotland (near Edinburgh).

Arrival

1769

Occupation

Upon arrival in Philadelphia, Robert immediately set up shop as a bookseller. In 1775, Aitken started publication of The Pennsylvania Magazine, continuing through 1776. In January 1776, he began printing the journals of Congress, and when, in December of that year, the Continental Congress retreated to Baltimore, they sent an “express” to him requesting that he bring his press and utensils at public expense to Baltimore where he might locate and continue his engagement with Congress. But Aitken decided to remain in Philadelphia.

Daily Planner

Robert Aitken published one of America’s first daily planners which he called the Complete Annual Account Book and Calendar for the Pocket or Desk. See this website for an image.

The Aitken Bible

Robert was the first to publish an English language Bible in the newly formed United States. Learn more…

Marriage

11 Jul 1763 to Janet Skeoch (09 Jan 1732-)

Children

Robert Aitken (1767-1823)
Jane Aitken (1764-1832)
Margaret Aitken
Mary Ann Aitken

Residence

Death

13 Jul 1802 in Philadelphia, PA.

External Links

There are a number of helpful websites that provide info on Robert Aitken. Here are a few:
Jane Aitken Papers at the American Philosophical Society
Jane Aitken: Businesswoman Who Printed First Bible In America