Francis Gurney
Francis Gurney was first introduced on this whirling planet in Bucks County, Pennsylvania in 1738. His military genius became early developed. He entered the service of mother Britain at the age of 18 and braved the perils and hardships of the French war from its commencement to its close. His reputation for bold enterprise and noble daring he carved high in the temple of epic fame. At the capture of Cape Breton he acted a conspicuous part. At the taking of Guadaloupe his bravery was a subject of general remark. At the close of these arduous services he commenced a successful career in the mercantile business in the city of Philadelphia.There he was when the revolutionary storm loomed up. He looked upon the conduct of mother England as basely ungrateful. He snuffed the breeze of Liberty and struck for Freedom. His noblest energies were roused to action. His large military experience and keen perception enabled him to point out those who were best calculated to make efficient officers. Mifflin, Cadwalader and others were first recommended by him. His zeal and activity in the cause of suffering humanity were above all praise. Believing he could render more service out of the Army than in it. He declined a commission until May 25,1775, when he took command of an infantry company of volunteers. The next year he entered the regular service with the commission of lieutenant. He was a Colonel in the 11th regiment of the Pennsylvania Line. He was in the battle of Iron Hill, Brandywine and Germantown where he fully sustained his reputation for daring bravery. The wire working system of promotions that was early introduced and injuriously pursued did not comport with his fine sense of military usage which caused him to resign. This did not abate his zeal in the cause as he continued to advance the best interests of the patriots until he saw his country free from bondage. After the Revolution he resumed his business at Philadelphia and filled many municipal and legislative stations, and commanded a regiment in the Army of 1794 which put down the whiskey insurgents, and became Brigadier-General of Militia. He died near Philadelphia on May 25, 1815.