Peter W. Yates

Peter Waldron Yates (August 23, 1747 – 1826) was a lawyer and statesman from Albany, New York.

His father was a blacksmith in Albany, but also owned a farm in Rensselaerswyck (in what is today the town of Bethlehem).

Despite his background as one child in a large working-class family, Peter acquired an education, and read for the law.

In 1767 he was admitted to the bar and married Ann Margarita Helms of New York City.

During the debate over ratification of the United States Constitution, Yates was an active Anti-Federalist.

When removed from politics, his practice and investments thrived, and he became one of the most prosperous men in Albany.

He built a mansion on the south side of town, and only the Philip Schuyler house was more impressive.