Background
He was the sixth son of Alexander MacDonell of Greenfield and Janet Macdonell of Aberchalder (a sister of John Macdonell of Aberchalder).
He was the sixth son of Alexander MacDonell of Greenfield and Janet Macdonell of Aberchalder (a sister of John Macdonell of Aberchalder).
Alexander worked as a fur trader and became a partner of the North West Company prior to become a political figure in Upper Canada. He served in the 8th Parliament of Upper Canada in the riding of Glengarry and in the 12th Parliament in the riding of Prescott. Another Alexander Macdonell also served in the riding of Glengarry during several parliaments, including the 6th Parliament.
He succeeded Alexander MacDonell of Greenfield"s brother, John MacDonell.
In 1822 Alexander became the Sheriff of the Ottawa District, a position he held until his death in 1835.