James Moncrief

Who was James Moncrief?

James Moncrief was a trained engineer and military officer of Scottish Highlander descent in the British Royal Engineers. Moncrief graduated from the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich, England in 1762 at the age of 21 and would become a career military man who would rise to the rank of colonel. He saw extensive service in the American colonies in the late 18th century and upon Britain's takeover of Spanish Florida in 1763, he drafted a current map of St. Augustine the capital of East Florida, and its defenses while serving under military governor James Grant.

During the American Revolution Moncrief served in various campaigns throughout the colonies. In 1776 he served as guide to the 4th Regiment of Foot during a river crossing on the march to Philadelphia.

From the journal of Captain John Montresor, concerning action at Fort Mifflin:

Captain James Moncrief Engineer and 50 Hessians, recovered the gun unspiked and all the detachment except 2 subalterns, 5 grenadiers and 2 artillery men. During this day the Rebels fired 3,000 Cannon Shot at this battery from the instant day broke. The Troops being few and harassed no work this night. This morning cold and white frost.