John F. Scott, attorney at law, Mattoon; was born in Geauga Co., Ohio, A. D. 1844; his early life was spent upon the farm, and his experiences those common to a farmer’s soil; at the age of 16, he became a student in the Eclectic Institute (now Hiram College), at that time presided over by Gen. J. A. Garfield; here he remained one year; returning home, he engaged in farming one year, and subsequently engaged in teaching; in 1866, he entered the Commercial College in Poughkeepsie, N.. Y., remaining eight months; he next engaged in the sale of territory for patent rights; in 1868, he again engaged in farming; in March, 1869, he came West to located in Mattoon, and was engaged in life, fire and accident insurance till 1874; he then came into the office of H. S. Clark, and resumed his legal studies; in April, 1875, he entered the graduating class of the Ohio State and Union Law College, of Cleveland, from which he graduated in July, following; on his return, the legal firm of Clark & Scott was formed, and he has since devoted himself to his profession. He was married in 1868, to Sophia E. Clark, a native of Ohio; has two children – Earl C. and Montague W. In 1872, he was chosen Mayor of the city, and, by re-election, held the office three times in succession; in 1876, 1877 and 1878, he was chosen Supervisor of Mattoon Tp., and ex-officio Treasurer; he is at present Chairman of the Board.
