He was born in Bakerstown, Pennsylvania on August 12, 1876 to Reverend William G. and Jennie Wright Stewart.

[1] He graduated from Washington & Jefferson College in 1899 and attended Harvard Law School.

[5] His wife, Margaretta Donnan Stewart, took over control of the Observer-Reporter.

[2] The John L. Stewart Clock Tower on the northwest corner of the McIlvane Hall at Washington & Jefferson College is named in his honor.

[6] Before McIlvane Hall was demolished in 2008, the clock chimed to note the hour.