Oliver Prescott was born in Groton, Massachusetts, in 1731. He graduated from Harvard and later received a Master of Arts degree from the same institution. Prescott began his career in public service as a town clerk, and he held various leadership roles in the Massachusetts militia, including brigadier general and major general. He was appointed to the Supreme Executive Council and served as a judge of probate for Middlesex County. Prescott was also a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and contributed to the establishment and support of Groton Academy. His professional expertise and leadership capabilities were marked by a commitment to the safety, stability, and governance of the Commonwealth.

Oliver Prescott's political identity is marked by a steadfast commitment to regional stability and governance, blending traditional roles with progressive educational advocacy. His military service and judicial appointments reflect a calculated approach to protecting local interests, while his support for Continental Congress resolves indicates a broader ideological alignment. Prescott's personal loss during the epidemic adds a poignant layer to his dedication to public health and education, suggesting a deeply personal motivation behind his policy stances.