Alexander McNair

Alexander McNair was born in Lancaster in the Province of Pennsylvania and grew up in Mifflin County.

His grandfather, David McNair Sr., immigrated to Pennsylvania from Donaghmore, County Donegal, Ireland around 1733 and had Scottish ancestors from Loch Lomond.

1736), fought with General George Washington in the Trenton and Princeton campaigns in the winter of 1776–77, and died in February 1777 as a result of wounds received in battle and exposure when Alexander was less than two years old.

Later in September, he enlisted as a private in the First Regiment of Mounted Militia commanded by Colonel Alexander McNair.

McNair was elected governor in 1820, receiving 72% of the vote and defeating the famous explorer William Clark.