George W. Hinman

George W. Hinman was born in Bullitt county, Ky., in April, 1791. When he was 8 years old his father and family removed to Ohio county, Ky. He was married in the year 1815 to Miss Nancy Stewart, of that county. Here 2 children were born to them — Maria and Asahel, the latter the subject of this sketch. In 1819 he moved to Indiana, where 2 more children were born, — Eliza Ann, now deceased, and Phoebe. In 1829 he came to this county, locating on the S. W. J of sec. 14, Griggsville tp. In his house on this land took place the first religious meeting in this part of the county. (Geo. W. Hinman was a man of sterling worth and unblemished honor. He was a man of deep thought, strong religious convictions, undeviating honesty, a fit and honorable representative of his worthy ancestors. Such qualities, together with the experience in pioneer life in Kentucky and Indiana, fitted him to take a prominent part' in the affairs of the county. In 1830 he was elected one of the three County Commissioners. He was appointed with two others, by the Legislature, to expend certain moneys accruing under the internal-improvement act on the roads of the county, and in many other ways serve the public. "Hinman's Chapel" (Methodist) was principally built by him. He and his wife are both buried in the ground attached to the Chapel. He died Dec. 8, 1854.

       Asahel Hinman is the only child of Geo. W. Hinman, now living in Pike county. He was born in Ohio county, Ky., Jan. 19, 1817, and was brought to this county with his parents in 1829. On reaching his majority his father gave him $100, with which he entered 80 acres of land. Dec. 23, 1838, he was married to Sarah McLain, daughter of John and Mary McLain, of Adair county, Ky. In the spring of 1839 he built a hewed-log cabin 18 feet square on his land. It was a story-and-a-half house, and contained two rooms. Here he lived for 28 years. His farm now consists of 600 acres, and is one of the finest improved in the county. He is also the owner of the large flouring-mill at Perry, called "Hinman's Mill," and which is carried on by his sons, George W. and Asahel A., in company with himself. He was one of the original stock holders in organizing the 5th National Bank of Chicago; also the Griggsville National Bank, of which he is a Director. He is also one of the organizers of the Farmers' Insurance Company of Griggsville, and was chosen its President. Mr. and Mrs. H. are now residing in Perry, surrounded by their family, consisting of three children, — George W., Sarah F., and Mary. Asahel, the youngest, is married and living at Perry.  Catharine, the eldest child, married the Rev. Thomas Bonner, and resides in Christian county, Ill. John W. and Nancy J. are deceased.

Source: History of Pike County, Illinois; published 1880, Chapman & Company, Page 483.