The allusion is uncertain.
1787. See SHAYITES.
1789. Unless the measure of the iniquity of the “know ye” gentry should be speedily filled up, [Rhode Island will remain estranged from her sister States].—American Museum, v. 328/2 (April).
1789. (Feb.) “A Know-ye Rhode-Islander” figures in a pasquinade by Benjamin Russell.—J. T. Buckingham, ‘Specimens of Newspaper Literature,’ ii. 55.
