Richard Montgomery

Overview

General Richard Montgomery was a highly respected military leader during the American Revolutionary War. Born on December 2, 1738, in Swords, County Dublin, Ireland, Montgomery embarked on a British military career. After serving in the British Army, he resigned and move to New York state. As the American Rebellion erupted, he joined the Continental Army as a brigadier general, later promoted to major general.

Montgomery’s notable contributions to the Revolutionary War began in 1775 when he played a crucial role in the 1775 American invasion of Canada. He commanded the pivotal Battle of Quebec in 1775. Leading an audacious assault, Montgomery aimed to capture the city and unite Canada with the American colonies. Although the attack ultimately proved unsuccessful and resulted in his untimely death, Montgomery’s bravery and leadership in the face of adversity earned him enduring respect and admiration.

Memoirs and Papers

Richard Montgomery papers, Manuscripts and Archives Division, The New York Public Library.

Richard Montgomery’s  Last Will and Testament

Biographies

Gabriel, Michael P. Major General Richard Montgomery: The Making of an American Hero. Madison, NJ : London: Fairleigh Dickinson University Press ; Associated University Press, 2002.

Shelton, Hal T. General Richard Montgomery and the American Revolution: From Redcoat to Rebel. New York: New York University Press, 1994.

Siry, Steven E. Liberty’s Fallen Generals: Leadership and Sacrifice in the American War of Independence. First edition. Military Profiles. Washington, D.C: Potomac Books, 2012.

Grave markers

Montgomery’s remains were transported from Quebec City to New York City for final burial in the St. Paul’s Church in lower Manhatten, New York City. Legend has it that Montgomery’s wife, Janet witnessed the boat sailing down the Hudson from Quebec City with her husband’s remains on the way to his final resting place.

Pierre L’Enfant designed a wood enclosure which his the backside of the monument inside the church.