Richard Varick was an American lawyer, military officer, and politician who has been referred to as "The Forgotten Founding Father." A major figure in the development of post-Independence New York City and State, Varick became the 45th Mayor of New York City in 1789 and served eleven consecutive one-year terms until 1801.
Previous to his terms as mayor, Varick served as the 14th Recorder of New York City from 1784 to 1789. An office that no longer exists, it equates to 'Chief Legal Officer'. Along with Samuel Jones, Varick codified New York State's first statutes after Revolution in the Laws of New York. This body of work laid legal groundwork for Varick to institute the Law of New York, the New York City Administrative Code, and the Rules of New York City during his terms as mayor. Additionally, under his leadership, the progenitors of the New York City Department of Health, the New York Stock Exchange, and many others would be created establishing the foundation of modern New York City.
During the Revolutionary War, he served as George Washington's aide-de-camp and private secretary.