My Genealogy Hound

JOHN H. OLIVER, Mansfield, was born in Washington, Pa., in 1820. William L. Oliver, his father, was born in Washington, and was a son of David, who came there from New Jersey at an early date. David was a shoemaker by trade, and later in life a farmer. William L. was a hatter, which trade he successfully carried on in Washington, Pa., having a branch business in Pittsburgh. He married Mrs. Eliza B. Huston, who is now living, aged eighty-six years. William L. died in 1833, aged thirty-five years. Born to these parents were three children, two of whom are living, John H. (the eldest) and Elizabeth (Mrs. Hart). John H. was educated at the common schools, and at fifteen years of age went to Pittsburgh, where he learned the tinsmith’s trade, serving an apprenticeship of four years. He followed that business through life, and was for thirteen years extensively engaged for himself in Pittsburgh. Mr. Oliver married, in 1850, Matilda Lenfestey, daughter of John Lenfestey, originally of France. Two children were born to their union: John L. (deceased) and Mary E., at home. Since 1872 Mr. Oliver has been a resident of Mansfield. He has to a great extent retired from business, but has a store, where he finds pleasure in spending his time. He owns a country-seat, and is content to take the world as it comes. He has served on the school board and in the town council, and is a member of the M. E. Church.