Background
Covert was born on February 11, 1839 in Norwich, New York, United States; the son of Jacob and Phebean (Cutler) Covert.
Covert was born on February 11, 1839 in Norwich, New York, United States; the son of Jacob and Phebean (Cutler) Covert.
Covert learned the printing trade in the job office of Timothy Snead and Edwin Cowles. His education was supplemented by a residence of seven years in Europe where he traveled and learned several languages.
Covert began his career as a reporter for Cleveland Leader in 1868, where he advanced through the positions of editorial writer, associate editor, managing editor and editor. In 1897, John was appointed United States consul at Marsailles and had held it for twelve years.
Covert served two terms in the Ohio House of Representatives.
Covert was a founding president of Press Club of Cleveland in 1887 and the Rowfant Club in 1892. He was a member of Early Settlers' Association.
Covert, as a member of the Early Settlers' Association, had sponsored the original resolution leading to the observance of the Cleveland Centennial in 1896.
John Covert married Amelia A. Dutcher in 1871.