John Avery Jr. (September 2, 1739 â June 7, 1806) was an American politician who served as the first Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Avery was a direct descendant of Dr. William Avery from Barkham, Berkshire, England, who emigrated to Dedham, Massachusetts, in 1650.
Avery was born to John and Mary (Deming) Avery on September 2, 1739.
Avery married Mary (Polly) Cushing in April 1769; they had ten children.
Avery was a member of the Sons of Liberty.
Avery had served as Deputy Secretary of the Province of Massachusetts Bay under Samuel Adams. Avery defeated Adams at the polls to be the first Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Avery died on June 7, 1806.