Sir Ralph Abercromby

Bro. Abercromby was born in 1734 in Menstrie Castle, Clackmannanshire, Scotland. He was educated at Rugby School, a coeducational school in Rugby, England. He went on to the University of Edinburgh before being sent to Leipzig University in Germany. At Leipzig University he studied civil law with the idea of pursuing a career as an advocate. When he returned from Germany Abercromby expressed a strong desire for Military service. In 1756 a commission was secured for him in the 3rd Dragoon Guards. He served with his regiment in the Seven Years' War.

Abercromby rose through the intermediate grades to the rank of lieutenantcolonel of the regiment (1773) and brevet colonel in 1780, and in 1781, he became colonel of the newly raised King's Irish infantry. When that regiment was disbanded in 1783, he retired on half pay. He also entered Parliament as MP forClackmannanshire(1774–1780).

After a distinguished military career, rising to the rank of Lt General, Abercromby was sent to recover Egypt from the

French in 1801. At the Battle of

Alexandria, Abercromby was injured being shot through the thigh. Bro. Abercromby dismounted from his horse and

‘took part in the melee’ supporting his troops in the hand to hand combat. Seven days later on March 28th, 1801 he passed away from his wounds on board the HMS Foudroyant which was moored in the harbour.

Bro. Abercromby was initiated into Canongate Kilwinning Lodge No 2, Edinburgh in 1753 while his grandson, Colonel the Hon. George Abercromby, (afterwards 3rd Lord Abercromby), would be appointed Provincial Grand Master of Stirlingshire.

Trafalgar Royal Arch Jewel

This stunning RA jewel which depicts Lord Nelson’s flagship, HMS Victory, was presented to Comp. Edward Madgwick Roe Royal Navy in 1885—86. The chapter was consecrated in 1875 and linked to Royal Navy College Lodge No.1593 at the Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London. Bro. Roe stayed at the RN College Hospital until his retirement. He died in 1925, aged 88.

My thanks to the Jewels of the Craft Club who can be contacted at Contact Us – Jewels of the Craft (jotc.co.uk) should you be interested in this fascinating hobby.