ROBERT SCOTT. The Scott family were early pioneers of Washington county, and are of Scotch descent. Joseph Scott, the oldest representative, was born about 1761, in Scotland, coming to America during the latter part of the eighteenth century. He first located in York county, Penn., where he was married to Martha Paden, who was born in 1763. Prior to 1788, when Washington county was very sparsely settled, he came hither, and made a home in the eastern part of Hanover township, near Raccoon creek, securing control of an immense tract of wild land. A cabin was erected which furnished them with protection, and although deprived of many of the luxuries of life, they were soon able to build a comfortable home. The story of the struggles, hardships and privations of early pioneers has often been told, and the lives of this earnest and self-reliant couple were similar to those of their comrades, who undertook the arduous task of making the wilderness "to blossom as the rose." Industry finally was rewarded; they became wealthy and highly respected citizens, passing the remainder of their lives surrounded by children and friends. They died at a ripe old age, in full connection with the "Old School Presbyterian" Church, in which they had been reared from infancy. Politically, the grandfather was a Democrat. To this worthy couple were born two sons and three daughters, all of whom lived to an adult age. Robert, son of Joseph and Martha (Paden) Scott, was born in Robinson township, Washington Co., Penn., and in early life followed the carpenter's trade, being naturally inclined to mechanical work. He was twice married, his first choice being Fanny, daughter of Edward Jackson. She bore him children as follows: Alexander, a wagon maker by trade, who first lived in Florence, thence moving to Armstrong county, Penn.; Joseph, a carpenter of Burgettstown, Penn.; Josiah, a blacksmith of Burgettstown; Andrew F., a blacksmith, moved to Galesburg, Ill., thence to Nashville, Tenn.; Elizabeth, Mrs. Finley Wilson, of Armstrong county, Penn.; and Margaret, wife of James Work. Of this family Andrew F. is the only one living. For his second wife Robert Scott was married to Mary Kerr, of Allegheny county, Penn., who bore him the following children: Samuel, a pattern maker of Wheeling, W. Va.; Fannie, widow of George Jackson, living in Florence, Penn.; Catherine, unmarried, is living with her brother Robert; and Robert, whose sketch follows. After his first marriage Mr. Scott located near Candor, in Robinson township, where he resided for some time, then settled near Paris, in Hanover township, and in 1856 came to Florence. The latter part of his life was principally devoted to work in the carpentry line, as his skill was well known. In repairing violins and similar instruments, he was remarkably successful, also making a specialty of ornaments, which required exquisite care. He voted with the Democratic party, and in religion was a valued member of the Presbyterian Church. His death occurred November 1, 1863, and he was followed by his widow August 30, 1880. They were laid to rest in Candor cemetery. Robert Scott, son of Robert and Mary (Kerr) Scott, was born November 7, 1839, in Paris, Hanover township. His education was received at the country schools, and when he was sixteen years of age his parents moved to Florence. He then followed farm work at various places, and in 1869 opened a general store, having since continued in that business. On February 16, 1871, he was married to Margaret McCullough, a daughter of John McCullough, of Florence, who was one of the representative men of his time, and was justice of the peace for thirty years. The children of Robert and Margaret Scott are John M. (an enterprising young man, who is associated with his father in business), Mary D., Emma E., and Charley B., all of whom are living at home. In 1884 Mr. Scott mourned the loss of his wife, who was buried in the Presbyterian cemetery. In politics he has been a lifelong Democrat, and though taking interest in the success of his party, has declined proffered nominations to township offices. He is a member and trustee of the Presbyterian Church. By fair dealing, close attention to business and the practice of strict economy, his business has prospered until it has long been recognized as one of the leading establishments of Florence.

Text taken from page 357 of: Beers, J. H. and Co., Commemorative Biographical Record of Washington County, Pennsylvania (Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co., 1893). Transcribed February 1997 by Marsha Richins of Columbia, MO as part of the Beers Project. Published February 1997 on the Washington County, PA USGenWeb pages at http://www.chartiers.com/.

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