BIO: Oliver B. ELLIOTT, Beaver County, PA Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Judy Banja & Joe Patterson Copyright 2005. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/beaver.html http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/beaver/bios/bbios.htm Index for this bio book. _________________________________________________________________ BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES. This Volume Contains Biographical Sketches of Leading Citizens of Beaver County, Pennsylvania. Buffalo, N.Y., Chicago, Ill.: Biographical Publishing Company, 1899, pp. 241-242. _________________________________________________________________ BEAVER COUNTY 241 OLIVER B. ELLIOTT. Among the most important public institutions of Beaver county is the Home for the Poor and Infirm, a fact which is largely due to its successful management by the gentleman named above. It is situated on a tract of one hundred and thirty acres in Moon township, on the banks of the Ohio River, and commands a beautiful view. The place was formerly known as the Stone farm, and a part of the old farm house is now used as the superintendent's residence. A large brick building was erected for the use of the inmates which is a model of convenience in its arrangement, being heated and lighted with gas, equipped with numerous fire escapes and extinguishers, and a 250-barrel tank to insure safety from fire; its sanitary equipments are of the finest. There are thirty-two large, airy sleeping rooms for the accommodation of from eighty to one hundred and ten inmates, and the lower floor is given to separate parlors for the males and females; these are fitted up in comfortable style, and good literature is supplied. The pest house is placed in an isolated position on the farm, but, fortunately, owing to the absolute cleanliness of every portion of the place, this is but little used. The cellars and every out-of-the-way corner are scrupulously clean, - and all of these conditions received due praise from the state superintendent. The building is surrounded by beautiful grounds, and a greater part of the farm is under cultivation, the product being used upon the table, leaving nothing but flour and meat to be bought for daily use. The inmates are well cared for and are provided with an abundance of good, wholesome food, and treated on holidays to special dinners. In addition to this, entertainments are frequently given for their benefit, and they are allowed plenty of freedom. The inmates are very useful in the kitchen,, laundry and bakery, and elsewhere; one man is placed in charge of the chicken coops, - 500 fowls being kept. About 1,400 dozen eggs per annum are gathered, of which 1,000 eggs are kept for setting and the remainder are used for home consumption. The young inmates are instructed in useful ways, and are taught to lead a life of independence and self-reliance. As soon as possible they are placed in good homes, and in many instances have become useful and honored citizens. Mr. Elliott is eminently fitted for the position he holds, and it is to be hoped that, for the advantage of the inmates and the benefit of the county, he will be retained for many years to come. He has made a study of human nature, and seems to comprehend every desire and want of his charges; these he endeavors to satisfy, if reasonable, and within his power. Kind and considerate, he has their respect, without exception. Oliver B. Elliott was born in Moon township, Beaver county, June 20, 1857, and attended the district schools until he reached the age of sixteen years, after which he assisted his father on the farm until he was married. He later purchased a portion of his grandfather's old estate, - in all eighty-four acres. It was partially improved land, but Mr. Elliott improved both land and build- 242 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES ings still further, - setting out excellent orchards and vineyards. He raised six tons of grapes annually, besides large quantities of berries, cherries, apples, plums, etc. He also engaged in general farming. His place was well stocked with good horses, registered Jerseys and Holsteins, and sheep. He continued at this until he was appointed superintendent of the County Home, in 1897, since which time the place has been rented. Mr. Elliott was united in marriage with Ellen Dunn, a daughter of Walter and Ellen Dunn, of Scotch birth, and they have three children: Bertha A., born in January, 1883, a student of Beaver High School of the graduating class of 1901; Frank W., born in August, 1885; and one who died in infancy. Politically, Mr. Elliott is a Republican, and served as assessor and collector for a long time. He was also constable until 1897, and has filled all the township offices except that of justice of the peace. Religiously, he is a member and elder of the Presbyterian church. Socially, he is a member of the K. of P.; Jr. O. U. A. M.; Woodmen of the World; and Rochester Lodge, B. P. O. E. Mr. Elliott's portrait accompanies this sketch.