Soon after his birth the family moved to Milton, Delaware, where he was educated at local schools. He subsequently received more advanced instruction at the Philadelphia Grammar School. After completing his academic courses he returned to his native county and engaged in business with his father.
After his birth, the family relocated to Milton, Delaware, for his education. He later pursued further instruction at the Philadelphia Grammar School. Upon completing his academic studies, he returned to his home county and began working in business with his father.