venango county homes 19

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19. Dr. Franklin H. Johnston Home

Built in 1899 for Dr. Franklin H. Johnston, this Queen Anne Stick Style home is located at 645 Plumer Avenue in Miller Park. Dr. Johnston was born December 20, 1841 in Canal Township, the son of Alexander and Delia Hammond Johnston. His great-grandfather, Hugh Johnston, came from Ireland and when arriving in this area in 1797 settled about 1 mile east of the present town of Utica.

Frank Johnston enlisted in the Civil War and was a Corporal in Co. G., 63rd Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers. Upon receiving an honorable discharge he returned to this area and taught school at Cooperstown and also began his study of medicine. After graduating from medical school he practiced with Dr. Robert Crawford in Cooperstown, followed by moves to Cochranton, Utica and Butler County with his own practice. During this time he also studied shorthand and being one of the first experts in this locality, was offered a position by Joseph C. Sibley, president of the Signal Oil Company. In 1885 Dr. Johnston was promoted to the position of Secretary of the Galena Oil Company and at the same time became private secretary to General Charles Miller.

Dr. Johnston was a leader in the community, being a member of the First Baptist Church and a member of the Franklin School Board. He was very involved with the Miller Night School and was a director with the following: General Manifold and Printing Company, Dale and Reed Company and the Franklin Manufacturing Co.

Frank and Mary L.Curtis Johnston raised seven children: Edward B., Charles, Frank Alfred, Cecil Wallace, Mrs. Robert (Grace) Harris, Mrs. Arthur (Hattie) O�Neil and Mrs. Fred R. (Maude) DeWoody.

Dr. Johnson died March 26, 1907 at his office in the Galena Signal Building of apoplexy (stroke) at the age of 66. Mrs. Mary Johnston died in November 1921. They are buried at Oakwood Cemetery, Canal Township.

Submitted by: Penny Minnick
minnick862@verizon.net