This Sunday, 1/17th the staff of the Apothecary Shop on Caroline Street will be celebrating the birthday and life of Dr/General Hugh Mercer.
Dr Mercer was born in Rosehearty, Scotland, graduated from college in Aberdeen, saw service as an assistant surgeon at the Battle of Colloden before leaving Scotland for America. Once here he lived as a doctor in rural Cumberland County, PA, served as an infantry officer for 6 years in the French & Indian War before moving to our fair town in 1761. While here he operated a successful medical and apothecary business for 15 years. He also met and married his wife and had 5 children.
As the country edged toward revolution, Dr Mercer again offered his military services to Virginia and his adopted country. Raised to a Brigadier general he commanded troops at both Trenton and Princeton. It was at Princeton in 1777 that he was struck down while leading his forces into battle against the British. He lingered for 12 days before dying of his wounds. He is buried in PA.
The Apothecary Shop will be celebrating his life from noon to 4 pm on Sunday. Cake and punch will be served. I hear that the doctor will be "in." (And a bagpiper, of course!)
Dr Mercer was born in Rosehearty, Scotland, graduated from college in Aberdeen, saw service as an assistant surgeon at the Battle of Colloden before leaving Scotland for America. Once here he lived as a doctor in rural Cumberland County, PA, served as an infantry officer for 6 years in the French & Indian War before moving to our fair town in 1761. While here he operated a successful medical and apothecary business for 15 years. He also met and married his wife and had 5 children.
As the country edged toward revolution, Dr Mercer again offered his military services to Virginia and his adopted country. Raised to a Brigadier general he commanded troops at both Trenton and Princeton. It was at Princeton in 1777 that he was struck down while leading his forces into battle against the British. He lingered for 12 days before dying of his wounds. He is buried in PA.
The Apothecary Shop will be celebrating his life from noon to 4 pm on Sunday. Cake and punch will be served. I hear that the doctor will be "in." (And a bagpiper, of course!)
Come and join the festivities!
Trip Wiggins, Fredericskburg Scottish Society
