216 Johnston Drive
This beautiful house was built in the middle of a farm with a beautiful view of the Connoquenessing Creek in 1872 (before Ellwood City was founded) for John C. Johnston’s family. The Johnston’s were descendants of Andrew Nye, who settled on the tract of land known as “Great Falls”. He was deeded 343 of the 439 acres that comprised “Great Falls” and settled on the tract in approximately 1788-1789. Mr. Nye is widely believed to be the first white settler within boundaries of Lawrence County. Many families in the area today can trace their descent from this man including all of the Nyes, and the greater majority of the Mains, Deemers, Matheny’s and Johnstons.
In 1939, Superintendent of Ellwood City Schools, James Ellis Bell and his wife Mary Braham Bell purchased the home. Mr. Bell served as the Superintendent from 1938 to 1962, longer than anyone has ever held that position in Ellwood City. Mr. and Mrs. Bell’s son Eric is still remembered in the area as having one of, if not the most, memorable championship car in the annual soap box derby.
We are trying to uncover more of the history behind not only this house but also the families that have lived here. If you have any memories about this house or the families that lived here, please leave a comment below or email us your memories at info@ellwoodcitymemories.
tyler lucarellis hous
My grandmother was Nye and come to find out Andrew is my 6th great grandfather . very cool
I recall that Mr. & Mrs. Bell had a pool table in their basement which neighborhood kids were permitted to use, provided they treated the equipment with respect. They were exceptionally gracious people.
I lived a couple houses away and my brothers and I used the table many times. The Bells were great people.