Edward Hand, born in Clyduff, King’s County, Ireland, Dec. 31, 1744,
came to this country in 1774 with the Eighteenth Royal Irish Regulars
as surgeon’s mate. Upon reaching America, he resigned his position,
settled in Pennsylvania, and began the practice of medicine. The
following year, however, found him taking part in the great strife,
as lieutenant-colonel in Thompson’s Regiment. March 1, 1776, he was
promoted to be a colonel, and took part with his regiment in the
battles of Long Island and Trenton. April 1, 1777, he was advanced
to the rank of brigadier-general; in October, 1778, he succeeded
General Stark at Albany, and in 1780 commanded one brigade of the light
infantry. At the end of the year he was appointed adjutant-general,
and held that post until the close of the war, gaining the approbation
of Washington. In 1784–85, he was a member of Congress, and in 1790
a signer of the Pennsylvania Constitution. In 1798, anticipating
a war with France, Washington recommended the appointment of Hand
as adjutant-general. He died at Rockford in Lancaster County,
Pennsylvania, on the 3d of September, 1802. During the Revolution he
was distinguished for his fine horsemanship and his daring spirit; but
he won the affection of his troops by his amiability and gentleness.