WILLIAM M. McELHANY, of the firm of McElhany & Scott, cabinet-makers, Burgettstown, is an example of the possible success which lies before all those now at the bottom of the ladder, who possess intelligence, coupled with willing hearts and hands. He is today one of the most prosperous business men of Burgettstown, although he began life with financial aid. William McElhany was born July 15, 1849, in Allegheny county, Penn., and moved to West Virginia with his parents when but nine and a half years of age. The father died when the son was a lad of twelve years, and the little fellow began life for himself. He first learned the carpenter's trade, which vocation he followed several years with marked success, but afterward learned the trade of a cabinet-maker, eventually opening a furniture store in Burgettstown, Smith township. Some time afterward he became associated with Mr. Scott, and they have since carried on the business with much profit. On November 21, 188 , he was united in marriage with Rachel, daughter of William Russell, a pioneer resident of this county. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. McElhany are Jennie M. and Tilla M. (twins), William M. (deceased) and Maggie G. In politics William McElhany was originally a Democrat, and served his township and the borough of Burgettstown in various official capacities; since 1890 he has espoused the cause of the Prohibition party. He has been a member of the Presbyterian Church at Burgettstown for many years, and is now filling the position of elder.

Text taken from page 1403 of: Beers, J. H. and Co., Commemorative Biographical Record of Washington County, Pennsylvania (Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co., 1893). Transcribed January 1997 by Neil and Marilyn Morton of Oswego, IL as part of the Beers Project. Published January 1997 on the Washington County, PA USGenWeb pages at http://www.chartiers.com/.

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