My Genealogy Hound

PETER PATTERSON, general superintendent National Tube-works company, McKeesport, is a native of Jedburgh, Roxburghshire, Scotland. At an early age his mechanical tastes induced him to learn the trade of machinist, and the thorough training of his country, coupled with unusual genius in mechanical and engineering matters, soon placed him at the head of his trade. He came to this country in May, 1866, and found employment with the Union Machine company and later with the firm of Campbell, Hall & Co., Norwich, Conn. He moved to New York in December of the same year, where he accepted a position at the Secor Iron works. In 1869 he went to the extensive machine-shops of James L. Jackson & Brother where he remained until December, 1871. At that time the National Tube-works company, at East Boston, Mass., with a view to securing the best skill to carry on the work or designing and constructing the special machinery for the erection of their projected McKeesport mill, secured the services of Mr. Patterson as constructing engineer. In this capacity, and as assistant engineer, he came to McKeesport in June, 1872, and took charge of erecting the mills which have grown under his supervision to such magnitude. In 1880 the company appointed him general superintendent, which position he has since filled Mr. Patterson is a thoroughly practical man a systematic, cool-headed mill-manager, possessed of rare inventive talent. He has invented several important patents which are in constant and successful operation. He takes a deep interest in local matters, and is a representative citizen. He is a member of the United Presbyterian Church, in politics a stanch republican.