William Carter of Wapping in the County of Middlesex, England, was among the first purchasers of land in Philadelphia under the propriety of William Penn. He owned land of considerable wealth, in the neighborhood of Second and Chestnut Streets, and was much engaged in land transactions. In the Recorder's office his deeds occur very frequently, especially before 1700. The first one, in 1685, conveys land to Thomas Howell. He was an alderman appointed by Wm. Penn Oct. 25, 1701, and thereby became one of the Associate Justices (Judges) of the City Court.
His will mentions his wife Mary, but does not mention any children. He mentions in his will his kinswoman Mary Smith, wife of William Smith ; his wife's dau. Mary Morris. Will dated Nov. 6, 1738.
+ William Carter, Esq., departed this life Philadelphia 12mo 19th, 1738, in the 88th year of his age."
