General Hugh Mercer helped shape American history. His father, Reverend William Mercer, took over the charge of Pitsligo Parish Church in 1720 at the age of 26. He, assisted by his wife Ann Monro, breathed new life into Rosehearty and the parish. In fact the fisherfolk took a great interest in this new minister's evangelical style and the attendance rose dramatically.

In 1726 Ann gave birth to a son, whom they called Hugh. The child was christened in the manse of Pitsligo by his uncle, then minister at Forgue. At the age of 18 this lad graduated from Marischal college as a doctor.

That was in 1744 and the following year young Mercer was drawn by the excitement of the exiled Stuart returning to take back his throne. Fired with an emotional drive at the prospect of a successful Jacobite cause Mercer became an assistant surgeon in the Prince's army.

Ironically, Hugh's grandfather Sir Robert Monro was a commander in the Hanovarian army.

His mother Ann was torn asunder. Her father was in the King's army and now her son had joined the rebel forces. Both parents were angered and bitterly opposed his actions but he went just the same. He never forgot the horrific butchery he witnessed at Culloden and these memories had a staggering effect on the youthful doctor.

In 1747 he left for America where he carried on his profession. He became an Indian fighter and the legends began to grow. When Colonels Hugh Mercer and George Washington met for the first time they bonded a friendship that endured till the end. Promotion came fast for both men. Douglas Freeman, an important military biographer, wrote in his work on Washington, that Brigadier General Hugh Mercer's magnitude was such that have been Washington's superior.

In 1761, on the advice of Washington, Hugh opened an apothecary shop in Fredericksburg - It has been preserved to his memory. American history began to take shape in a backroom within that building, as George Washington, now commander-in-chief of the revolutionary forces, appointed Mercer as one of his four generals in June 1776. The American War of Independence began.

However, he died the same cruel death as his Highland comrades at Culloden when, on the 12th of January 1777, nine days after he stood rallying his troops at the ferocious battle of Princeton, the British bayonet ended his life with a painful thrust under his left arm; but he had already carved a far greater legend that lives on In his adopted country to this very day.

The freedom he fought for is the USA and succeeding generations of his family have kept up his fight for justice. General George Smith Patton was one of them. Known as "old blood and guts", this fearless general was renowned for a quick temper and was outspoken when he saw cause for it. His determination earned him the reputation as America's best commander of armed forces in history.

Hugh Mercer's father and mother are buried at Rosehearty cemetery close by the church William served so well for 47 years. Little did they know their son, whom they thought had brought disgrace, would bring great honour as one of America's greatest generals.