Col. Alexander Abercromby

1784 - 1853

Soldier and politician. Born into a noted military family, the youngest son of Sir Ralph Abercromby (1734 - 1801), he followed his father and brother, Sir John (1773 - 1817), into the army at an early age. Abercromby served in Sicily as Aide-de-Camp to Sir John Moore (1761 - 1809), who was a friend of his father. Rapidly promoted, he commanded his regiment against the French in the Battle of Busaco (Portugal; 1810). He was appointed Assistant Quartermaster-General in 1812 and served in this capacity at Waterloo. The lengthy peace which followed prevented Abercromby displaying more of his military talents and gaining further promotion. He was rewarded as a Companion as the Order of Bath, together with honours for several other European countries.

He succeeded his brother, Sir John, as Whig Member of Parliament for Clackmannan in 1817, but served for only a year.

He died at home in Scotland.

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