Three generations of Penns acted as proprietors of the Province of Pennsylvania and the Lower Counties (Delaware) from the founding of the colony until the American Revolution removed them from power and property.
William Penn was granted the new proprietary colony in 1681 by Charles II of England in payment for debts owed to Penn's father.
When John died without children, his brother Thomas inherited his share and became chief proprietor.
The government of Colonial Pennsylvania (and the Lower Counties) was conducted by a set of administrators in the name of the proprietors.
During the British occupation of Philadelphia from 26 September 1777 until June 1778, Joseph Galloway was "in charge of policing the city, and of imports and exports".