Joseph D. Oliver

Joseph Doty (J.D.) Oliver (August 2, 1850 – August 6, 1933) was an American businessman and President of the Oliver Farm Equipment Company in South Bend, Indiana.

Early life Joseph Doty Oliver was born to Susan Catherine (née Doty) and James Oliver on August 2, 1850. His father was an inventor. Oliver attended public schools in South Bend. He took courses at DePauw University and the University of Notre Dame.

Career His first job was in his father's plant, then called Oliver, Bissel and Company, for 75 cents a day. He was elected Treasurer at the age of 16, Director at 20, and became President in 1908 after his father's death. His public works include funding (along with his father) the Oliver Opera House in 1884, Oliver Hotel in 1899, and City Hall, as well serving as the Indiana Director of War Savings during World War I.

Oliver served as a director of the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad, the First National Bank of Chicago and the Chase National Bank of New York. He served as trustee of Purdue University for 18 years. Oliver was a member of the Presbyterian church.

Oliver died on August 6, 1933, in South Bend, Indiana.