From his father's ancestors Mr. McCrea inherits those sturdy Scotch characteristics which distinguish the race, while from his mother, who was of German descent, he likewise inherits high intellectual attainments. Even before completing his studies he had decided upon the law as a profession, and after leaving school began active preparation for admission to the bar. In due time he found himself prepared to enter upon the active practice of the profession, to which he has since devoted his energies with uninterrupted success. Mr. McCrea was admitted to the bar of New Jersey at the February term of the Supreme Court in 1882, and ever since then has been actively and successfully engaged in practice in Jersey City. He is a public spirited, enterprising, and progressive citizen, deeply interested in the affairs of his adopted city and State, and highly esteemed and respected by all who know him.