Author: Elliot, James
Biography:
Elliot, James (1775-1839: WBIS)
He was born in Gloucester MA to James Elliot, a sailor, and Martha (Day) Elliot. After his father's death, his mother worked as a seamstress in New Salem. Elliott himself worked as a household servant from the age of seven, and then as a clerk in a general store in Guilford VT, where he became acquainted with Royall Turner (q.v.) and his literary circle. Self-educated but a keen reader, he began to contribute to local newspapers. From 1793 to 1796, he served as a non-commissioned officer in the army: some of the most interesting material in his one published book is the journal material from that period. In his twenties he abandoned literature, studied law, established a legal practice in Brattleboro VT with his brother Samuel (q.v.), and was elected to Congress. He married Lucy Dow about 1804; they had three children. His later career included legal work, newspaper editing, a brief stint in the army during the War of 1812, and minor posts in the state legislature. (ANBO 7 Nov. 2018)