Alexander J. Williams-- Part 10: Inscription On His Gravestone

The inscription om Alexander Williams' tombstone reads:

"Sacred to the memory of  Captain Alexander John Williams, of the Twenty-first Regiment United States Artillery, son of General Jonathan and Marianne Williams, of the city of Philadelphia, who was killed in the night attack by the British on Fort Erie, August 14-15, 1814.

"In the midst of the conflict, a lighted port-fire in front of the enemy enabled them to direct their fire with great precision upon his company.

"He sprang forward, cut it off with his sword, and fell mortally wounded by a musket-ball.  He sacrificed himself to save his men.

"Born October 10, 1790.  Died August 15, 1814.   Fratri Dilecto."

--Brock-Perry