(NOTE: Mahlon L. Hunt probably never had his portrait taken prior to the Civil War. However, during the 10 month period that the 86th Illinois was in the Nashville, Tennessee area in 1862-63, we know from one of his letters that, Mahlon, like most of the Union soldiers in the Nashville area, took the time to sit for a portrait to send home to the loved ones that he left behind. These portraits were most often printed in the form of what was called a CDV, a paper picture glued to a heavier card stock about the size of a modern day baseball card, and the soldiers didn't just have one or two copies made. Most of the time, they had a dozen or more made, so they could swap pictures with their tentmates, messmates and for their friends, in the 86th and back home. We know that Mahlon send at some of his pictures home to his parents.
Before 1863 came to a close, Mahlon died from wounds he received during the Battle of Chickamauga, so the pictures that were taken in Nashville are probably the only pictures that were ever made of Mahlon. Hopefully they still exist within the family, but copies may also exist in the hands of descendants of some of his tentmates and massmates. If anyone that sees this Memorial has a copy of one of those pictures of Mahlor, I would love to see a copy added to his Memorial for all with an interest to see. Can anyone seeing this help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private MAHLON HUNT, Co. B, 86th Illinois
Mahlon Hunt was born about 1837 or 1838, possibly about April 18, 1837. His tombstone appears to read that he was 26 years, 6 months and 6 days of age at the time he died. However, if this date is correct, Mahlon would have been 25 years old at the time he enlisted on August 15, 1862 and it is recorded that he was 24. This could be the error though.
Mahlon was the son of Richard Hunt and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt. Richard and Ruth were both born in New Jersey, Richard c. May 9, 1804, the son of Enoch Hunt and Catherine Hazlett, while Ruth was born c. November 17, 1812 in Trenton, New Jersey.
Richard came west to Illinois in 1828, where Richard and Ruth were married on January 1, 1833. Eight children are known to have been born to them. They include;
1. Lyman C. Hunt, born April 20, 1835 in Putnam County, Illinois and died on March 11, 1903 in ___________, Illinois; Lyman was married to Mary E. ____________; Mary was born on July 9, 1847 and died on Dec. 15, 1874. Their mortal remains were laid in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois; The following biographical information came from The Biographical Record of Bureau, Marshall and Putnam Counties, Illinois,that was published in 1896. "Lyman C. HUNT, an agriculturist of energy and ability, who is residing on section 15, Whitefield township, Marshall county, was born in Putnam county, April 20, 1835, about four miles above Magnolia, at the head of Sunday creek, and is the son of Richard and Ruth (HORROM) HUNT, both natives of New Jersey. As early as 1832 Ruth came to Illinois with her brother, Lyman HORROM. Her mother having died, her father, Dr. Timothy HORROM, came to Illinois soon afterward, and engaged in practice near Morris, but his last days were passed at the home of his son Daniel........
It was in 1828, that Richard HUNT, the father of our subject came to Illinois, located a claim on Ox Bow prairie, Ox Box Putnam County, 10 miles S of Hennepin, 5 miles long, 2 miles wide and three years later the family removed to the place. Although born in New Jersey, from the age of nine years he had resided near Zanesville, Richland county, Ohio, whence he came to Marshall county. After a two years' residence here, his father, Enoch HUNT, went to Bloomington, where he made his permanent home and there died, but his sons, John, Cornelius and Richard, all made homes near the head of Sunday creek. There the uncles of our subject reared their families and spent their last days. For some time his parents lived on the Ox Bow, and for two years at the head of Sunday creek, after which they returned to the former place. In 1842, however, they settled on the west side of the river in Whitefield township, Marshall county, then but sparsely settled. He entered several tracts of land, which he would subsequently dispose of and in this way made considerable money. The land office was then located at Galena, a distance of one hundred and twenty-five miles, and the journey thither would occupy one day and two nights, and he would generally reach the land office in time for it to open at nine a. m. He had many a race to that city in order to get ahead of some competitor. He dealt in land quite extensively and still had at the time of his death one thousand acres, which were divided among his children. He improved two good farms of about one-half section. He participated in the Black Hawk war, being a member of a scouting party for four months and helped to bury the DAVIS family who were massacred and two of the HALL girls carried away. His death occurred in September, 1881, at the age of seventy-seven years. Originally, he was a democrat, but later supported the republican party, whose principles he stanchly advocated, and did all he could to sustain the government during the civil war. Though not a member of any church, he was quite familiar with the Bible, and gave his support to religious organizations. Mrs. HUNT survived him until the summer of 1894, when she too was called to her final rest. They were buried side by side in Whitefield cemetery, where a nice family monument marks the spot.
Lyman C. HUNT, whose name introduces this review, spent his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of farmer's sons, and remained under the parental roof until thirty-five years of age, the last ten years having charge of affairs. He first settled on land adjoining the old homestead, which he had partly improved while at home, but since 1873 has lived upon his present farm, which consists of five hundred acres of valuable land. He has engaged quite extensively in stock raising, making a specialty of horses, and has had some imported Shire horses upon his place. He has also raised cattle and sheep in considerable numbers. Besides his home farm he has also invested in lands in Kansas and Nebraska.
In 1871 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. HUNT and Miss Mary COAN, daughter of David COAN, of Henry, and to them were born two children, but one died in infancy. The other, Ola Grant, is operating a farm near his father. In 1874 the wife and mother died, and on the 8th of March, 1882, Mr. HUNT was again married, his second union being with Miss Maria VanALLEN, who was born near Wenona, Illinois, in La Salle county, and is the daughter of J. L. and Sarah VanALLEN. Previous to her marriage she had engaged in teaching in Marshall county. Three children grace the second union – Lawrence R. and Elmer Lee, both in school, and Estella, who for the past two years has been in ill health, and receives the watchful and tender care of her mother.
Although not taking an active part in politics, Mr. HUNT always supports the republican ticket and generally attends the county conventions. He and his estimable wife hold a prominent position in the social circles of the community and have the confidence and esteem of all who known them."
2. Mahlon L. Hunt, born c. 1836/37 in Illinois; See his biography below.
3. Timothy S. Hunt, born c. 1838/39 in Illinois; In 1896, Timothy owns and operates a farm which belonged to his father in Marshall County, Illinois.
4. Sylvia M. Hunt, born c. 1841/42 in Illinois; Sylivia was married to Alfred J. Diehl, of Whitefield, Illinois, on April 4, 1867; Alfred served beside Mahlon in Co. B of the 86th Illinois during the Civil War; They even named their first child, Mahlon, in honor of her brother, Mahlon Hunt; See the Find A Grave site of Alfred J. Diehl for more information about Sylvia and Alfred.
5. Lydia Eleanor (or Elnora) "Ella" Hunt, born c. 1842/43 in Illinois; In 1896, Eleanor is on a claim at Hennessey, Oklahoma.
6. Eliza Jane "Jennie" Hunt, born c. 1844/45 in Illinois; ; Jennie, who became the wife of R. H. DELMEDGE, died at their home in Lorimer, Iowa, July 25, 1894, at the age of forty-seven years, leaving a husband and three children to mourn her loss;.
7. Ruth Ann Hunt, born c. 1849 in Illinois; Ruth is the wife of Benjamin ANDREWS, of Ford county, Illinois. Among Ruth and Benjamin's children was a son, Mahlon Andrews, who was named for her older brother, who died of his wounds received during the Civil War.
8. Mary Hunt, born c. 1854/55 in Illinois; In 1896, Mary is with her sister on a claim at Hennessey, Oklahoma.
At the time of the 1850 census, the Hunt family is found in Marshall County, Illinois;
Richard Hunt M 46 New Jersey
Ruth Hunt F 38 New Jersey
Lyman K Hunt M 16 Illinois
Malone L Hunt M 14 Illinois
Timothy S Hunt M 12 Illinois
Silvia M Hunt F 9 Illinois
Lydia L Hunt F 7 Illinois
Eliza J Hunt F 5 Illinois
Ruth Ann Hunt F 1 Illinois
This Hunt family is found in Whitefield Township of Marshall County, Illinois at the time of the 1860 census;
R Hunt M 56 Wisc.
Ruth Hunt F 48 N. J.
Lyman Hunt M 25 N. J.
M Hunt M 23 Ills
T Hunt M 20 Ills
Sylva Hunt F 18 Ills
Eleanor Hunt F 15 Ills
Eliza Hunt F 12 Ills
Ruth Hunt F 10 Ills
Mary Hunt F 5 Ills
Jos Fuller M 17 Prussia
Edwin Howard M 36 Ohio
Mary Howard F 39 Conn.
L Slocum F 17 Ohio
John Howard M 13 Ohio
Chas E Howard M 9 Ohio
Mary Howard F 6 Ills
Frances Howard F 4 Ills
A V Howard F 0 Ills
At the time of the 1870 census, the Hunt family is found in Marshall County, Illinois;
Richard Hunt M 66 New Jersey
Ruth Hunt F 56 New Jersey
Lyman Hunt M 35 Illinois
Ella Hunt F 24 Illinois
Jane Hunt F 22 Illinois
Mary Hunt F 15 Illinois
William Skirls M 23 England
Frank Wright M 17 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, the Hunt family is found in Whitefield Township of Marshall County, Illinois;
Self Richard Hunt M 76 New Jersey
Wife Ruth Hunt F 67 New Jersey
Daughter Elnora Hunt F 34 Illinois
Daughter Mary Hunt F 24 Illinois
Grandson ... Hunt M 8 Illinois
Nephew Allen H. Hunt M 20 Illinois
Richard Hunt died on September 24, 1881, while Ruth died on August 3, 1894. Their mortal remains were laid in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois.
Now to continue with the biography of Mahlon Hunt;
ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES
Illinois Civil War Detail Report
Name HUNT, MAHLON Rank PVT
Company B Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence WHITEFIELD, MARSHALL CO, IL
Age 24 Height 5' 7 Hair DARK
Eyes HAZEL Complexion LIGHT
Marital Status SINGLE Occupation FARMER
Nativity IL
Service Record
Joined When AUG 15, 1862
Joined Where MARSHALL CO, IL
Joined By Whom CPT BREASLEY Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862
Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom
Muster Out
Muster Out Where
Muster Out By Whom
Remarks DIED IN FIELD HOSPITAL AT CHATTANOOGA TENN OCT 24, 1863 OF WOUNDS PVTD AT CHICKAMAUGA GA SEP 20, 1863
Mahlon Hunt is believed to have written home regularly to his parents. One such letter is known to survive. This letter from Mahlon Hunt to his parents Richard and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt is transcribed courtesy of Jim Gray. Jim Gray writes: "This letter was copied from the original written by Mahlon Hunt to his parents Richard and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt. Punctuation is as it appears in the original. The underscores and (?) were words which were not clear and the $¶ are Mahlon's and appear throughout the letter. Perhaps these marks were meant to conserve space on the paper, they seem to be indications of a new paragraph. The letter reads;
"Nashville, Tenn.
Aug. 18th, 1863
Dear Parents,
I take this opportunity of writing you in answer to yours of the 9th Aug., which came to hand on Sun. Aug. the 16th. Was glad to hear that you were all well again and that everything looked prosperous, that you were getting along finely with your work, would soon be through with your grain shucking. $¶Since I last wrote you there has been little or no news of importance, things go on about as usual. Warm weather. $¶Col. Magee com. the reg. The boys are on picket, or were yesterday and day before they stand two days at each turn and stand about once a week. So you see they are on duty near one third of the time this is not very hard. Well you wanted to know something more about this heavy artillery. I have written you several times about it, but perhaps have not given you the full particulars.
There is, outside of the fort and fortifications at the statehouse, eight heavy siege guns situated upon so many elevated and convenient points of advantage to operate in crossfiring and to command certain points and hollows by roads. $¶(Should an attack be made on this place) these guns are manned by from ten to fifteen men at each. We have but ten at present it is said that five more will be sent here soon. Our gun is a 32 pound Purot weighs 5515 lb. Stands near the Chult___ depot on the south side of the city the nicest and most healthy place about here the best water water I have tasted in Tenn. Our gun is in the backyard and we occupy a small house (tolerably well furnished with kitchen furniture looking glass bureau pictures $¶) of or belonging to an old man by the name of McCarne(?) though he is a pretty clever fellow he keeps a grocery and often furnishes us tomatoes potatoes cabbage $¶ which he brings to us free of charge. This is nice soldering we drill twice a day and I wouldn't mind being a regular here as long as the war lasts.
Well another rumor. One of the boys just returned from camp. Says that the brigade is ordered out again, they are to take two days rations, are also to have along two pairs socks one good pair shoes or boots. All and everything else is to be packed and stored here until transportation can be had for them. Lt. Gleves(?) is in com. of us he was just here says that we will likely be relieved from here today to go to the ___.
The boys here are all about sick over the news. I have heard to much such talk, think it a hoaks, I do. I merely spoke of this rumor that you may see how sudden things change and shan't mail this until I learn the truth of this. Since Kingsley has come in from the front will stay two to three days, he is after ___ ___ of ___ he said t hat the army is moving again.
I saw a man a solder hung yesterday he belonged to Co. H. 82nd Ind. Vol. Was hung for murdering a man of his own Co. was intoxicated at the time but on being court-martialed was sentenced to be hanged on the 15th Aug. but was reprieved until yesterday 12 o-clock, he hung just 30 minutes, was a fine looking young man. I don't think it was just to hang him, and let old Pemberton, Morgan, and such devils go un-hung, but I trust their day is coming and not far distant. You heard that I was sick at the hospital, this is a mistake. I never have been in the hospital yet, and hope I never may be as over one third of my time for which I enlisted has been put in, and I hope and trust faithfully to.
Tell me how Burnette is getting along if he has the mare or will be able to pay the notes this fall or not. I have written once but received no answer from him.
Later, Aug 20th nearly froze to death before daylight.
While I was writing day before yesterday as I stated we heard that the boys had orders to be ready to march and that would be relieved from here and go back to the Co.. I told you at that time that I would not mail this until I heard something more about it as I did not believe the rumor. It has proved true. Everything has been in confusion since then, various rumors were talked about until last night about 10 o-clock when we got orders to pack up and go to our reg. Immediately, about 15 mins. after that that order was countermanded, was ordered to stay here until 6 this morning when we would be relieved by a detail from the 3rd O.V. though all is quiet yet, but we are looking for the relief every moment when it comes we will go to the reg. which marched this morning have not heard at what hour It's destination is unknown though it is supposed that we will go in at Columbia. The boys are in no good humor about leaving here, though for my part I care but little were it not for the marching. It is said that Old Rosie is fighting in the vicinity of Chattanooga. I shall put a photograph or two in this letter. I must close in haste write soon.
Your aff. And ever mindful son M. J. Hunt"
One month after writing this letter, Mahlon Hunt was severly wound during the Battle of Chickamauga, Georgia and on October 24, 1863, Private Mahlon L. Hunt died from those wounds at the age of 26 y, 6m & 6 days. His body was originally laid in a Union burying ground in Chattanooga, but according to Lyman's biography that was listed above, Mahlon L. Hunt's body was exhumed six months later, by the family and returned to Marshall County, Illinois, where it was laid to rest in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Hunt family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on Mahlon Hunt and the Hunt family. Baxter would also like to see copies of any photographs of Mahlon Hunt, which may have survived the years, added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
Before 1863 came to a close, Mahlon died from wounds he received during the Battle of Chickamauga, so the pictures that were taken in Nashville are probably the only pictures that were ever made of Mahlon. Hopefully they still exist within the family, but copies may also exist in the hands of descendants of some of his tentmates and massmates. If anyone that sees this Memorial has a copy of one of those pictures of Mahlor, I would love to see a copy added to his Memorial for all with an interest to see. Can anyone seeing this help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private MAHLON HUNT, Co. B, 86th Illinois
Mahlon Hunt was born about 1837 or 1838, possibly about April 18, 1837. His tombstone appears to read that he was 26 years, 6 months and 6 days of age at the time he died. However, if this date is correct, Mahlon would have been 25 years old at the time he enlisted on August 15, 1862 and it is recorded that he was 24. This could be the error though.
Mahlon was the son of Richard Hunt and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt. Richard and Ruth were both born in New Jersey, Richard c. May 9, 1804, the son of Enoch Hunt and Catherine Hazlett, while Ruth was born c. November 17, 1812 in Trenton, New Jersey.
Richard came west to Illinois in 1828, where Richard and Ruth were married on January 1, 1833. Eight children are known to have been born to them. They include;
1. Lyman C. Hunt, born April 20, 1835 in Putnam County, Illinois and died on March 11, 1903 in ___________, Illinois; Lyman was married to Mary E. ____________; Mary was born on July 9, 1847 and died on Dec. 15, 1874. Their mortal remains were laid in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois; The following biographical information came from The Biographical Record of Bureau, Marshall and Putnam Counties, Illinois,that was published in 1896. "Lyman C. HUNT, an agriculturist of energy and ability, who is residing on section 15, Whitefield township, Marshall county, was born in Putnam county, April 20, 1835, about four miles above Magnolia, at the head of Sunday creek, and is the son of Richard and Ruth (HORROM) HUNT, both natives of New Jersey. As early as 1832 Ruth came to Illinois with her brother, Lyman HORROM. Her mother having died, her father, Dr. Timothy HORROM, came to Illinois soon afterward, and engaged in practice near Morris, but his last days were passed at the home of his son Daniel........
It was in 1828, that Richard HUNT, the father of our subject came to Illinois, located a claim on Ox Bow prairie, Ox Box Putnam County, 10 miles S of Hennepin, 5 miles long, 2 miles wide and three years later the family removed to the place. Although born in New Jersey, from the age of nine years he had resided near Zanesville, Richland county, Ohio, whence he came to Marshall county. After a two years' residence here, his father, Enoch HUNT, went to Bloomington, where he made his permanent home and there died, but his sons, John, Cornelius and Richard, all made homes near the head of Sunday creek. There the uncles of our subject reared their families and spent their last days. For some time his parents lived on the Ox Bow, and for two years at the head of Sunday creek, after which they returned to the former place. In 1842, however, they settled on the west side of the river in Whitefield township, Marshall county, then but sparsely settled. He entered several tracts of land, which he would subsequently dispose of and in this way made considerable money. The land office was then located at Galena, a distance of one hundred and twenty-five miles, and the journey thither would occupy one day and two nights, and he would generally reach the land office in time for it to open at nine a. m. He had many a race to that city in order to get ahead of some competitor. He dealt in land quite extensively and still had at the time of his death one thousand acres, which were divided among his children. He improved two good farms of about one-half section. He participated in the Black Hawk war, being a member of a scouting party for four months and helped to bury the DAVIS family who were massacred and two of the HALL girls carried away. His death occurred in September, 1881, at the age of seventy-seven years. Originally, he was a democrat, but later supported the republican party, whose principles he stanchly advocated, and did all he could to sustain the government during the civil war. Though not a member of any church, he was quite familiar with the Bible, and gave his support to religious organizations. Mrs. HUNT survived him until the summer of 1894, when she too was called to her final rest. They were buried side by side in Whitefield cemetery, where a nice family monument marks the spot.
Lyman C. HUNT, whose name introduces this review, spent his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of farmer's sons, and remained under the parental roof until thirty-five years of age, the last ten years having charge of affairs. He first settled on land adjoining the old homestead, which he had partly improved while at home, but since 1873 has lived upon his present farm, which consists of five hundred acres of valuable land. He has engaged quite extensively in stock raising, making a specialty of horses, and has had some imported Shire horses upon his place. He has also raised cattle and sheep in considerable numbers. Besides his home farm he has also invested in lands in Kansas and Nebraska.
In 1871 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. HUNT and Miss Mary COAN, daughter of David COAN, of Henry, and to them were born two children, but one died in infancy. The other, Ola Grant, is operating a farm near his father. In 1874 the wife and mother died, and on the 8th of March, 1882, Mr. HUNT was again married, his second union being with Miss Maria VanALLEN, who was born near Wenona, Illinois, in La Salle county, and is the daughter of J. L. and Sarah VanALLEN. Previous to her marriage she had engaged in teaching in Marshall county. Three children grace the second union – Lawrence R. and Elmer Lee, both in school, and Estella, who for the past two years has been in ill health, and receives the watchful and tender care of her mother.
Although not taking an active part in politics, Mr. HUNT always supports the republican ticket and generally attends the county conventions. He and his estimable wife hold a prominent position in the social circles of the community and have the confidence and esteem of all who known them."
2. Mahlon L. Hunt, born c. 1836/37 in Illinois; See his biography below.
3. Timothy S. Hunt, born c. 1838/39 in Illinois; In 1896, Timothy owns and operates a farm which belonged to his father in Marshall County, Illinois.
4. Sylvia M. Hunt, born c. 1841/42 in Illinois; Sylivia was married to Alfred J. Diehl, of Whitefield, Illinois, on April 4, 1867; Alfred served beside Mahlon in Co. B of the 86th Illinois during the Civil War; They even named their first child, Mahlon, in honor of her brother, Mahlon Hunt; See the Find A Grave site of Alfred J. Diehl for more information about Sylvia and Alfred.
5. Lydia Eleanor (or Elnora) "Ella" Hunt, born c. 1842/43 in Illinois; In 1896, Eleanor is on a claim at Hennessey, Oklahoma.
6. Eliza Jane "Jennie" Hunt, born c. 1844/45 in Illinois; ; Jennie, who became the wife of R. H. DELMEDGE, died at their home in Lorimer, Iowa, July 25, 1894, at the age of forty-seven years, leaving a husband and three children to mourn her loss;.
7. Ruth Ann Hunt, born c. 1849 in Illinois; Ruth is the wife of Benjamin ANDREWS, of Ford county, Illinois. Among Ruth and Benjamin's children was a son, Mahlon Andrews, who was named for her older brother, who died of his wounds received during the Civil War.
8. Mary Hunt, born c. 1854/55 in Illinois; In 1896, Mary is with her sister on a claim at Hennessey, Oklahoma.
At the time of the 1850 census, the Hunt family is found in Marshall County, Illinois;
Richard Hunt M 46 New Jersey
Ruth Hunt F 38 New Jersey
Lyman K Hunt M 16 Illinois
Malone L Hunt M 14 Illinois
Timothy S Hunt M 12 Illinois
Silvia M Hunt F 9 Illinois
Lydia L Hunt F 7 Illinois
Eliza J Hunt F 5 Illinois
Ruth Ann Hunt F 1 Illinois
This Hunt family is found in Whitefield Township of Marshall County, Illinois at the time of the 1860 census;
R Hunt M 56 Wisc.
Ruth Hunt F 48 N. J.
Lyman Hunt M 25 N. J.
M Hunt M 23 Ills
T Hunt M 20 Ills
Sylva Hunt F 18 Ills
Eleanor Hunt F 15 Ills
Eliza Hunt F 12 Ills
Ruth Hunt F 10 Ills
Mary Hunt F 5 Ills
Jos Fuller M 17 Prussia
Edwin Howard M 36 Ohio
Mary Howard F 39 Conn.
L Slocum F 17 Ohio
John Howard M 13 Ohio
Chas E Howard M 9 Ohio
Mary Howard F 6 Ills
Frances Howard F 4 Ills
A V Howard F 0 Ills
At the time of the 1870 census, the Hunt family is found in Marshall County, Illinois;
Richard Hunt M 66 New Jersey
Ruth Hunt F 56 New Jersey
Lyman Hunt M 35 Illinois
Ella Hunt F 24 Illinois
Jane Hunt F 22 Illinois
Mary Hunt F 15 Illinois
William Skirls M 23 England
Frank Wright M 17 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, the Hunt family is found in Whitefield Township of Marshall County, Illinois;
Self Richard Hunt M 76 New Jersey
Wife Ruth Hunt F 67 New Jersey
Daughter Elnora Hunt F 34 Illinois
Daughter Mary Hunt F 24 Illinois
Grandson ... Hunt M 8 Illinois
Nephew Allen H. Hunt M 20 Illinois
Richard Hunt died on September 24, 1881, while Ruth died on August 3, 1894. Their mortal remains were laid in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois.
Now to continue with the biography of Mahlon Hunt;
ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES
Illinois Civil War Detail Report
Name HUNT, MAHLON Rank PVT
Company B Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence WHITEFIELD, MARSHALL CO, IL
Age 24 Height 5' 7 Hair DARK
Eyes HAZEL Complexion LIGHT
Marital Status SINGLE Occupation FARMER
Nativity IL
Service Record
Joined When AUG 15, 1862
Joined Where MARSHALL CO, IL
Joined By Whom CPT BREASLEY Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862
Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom
Muster Out
Muster Out Where
Muster Out By Whom
Remarks DIED IN FIELD HOSPITAL AT CHATTANOOGA TENN OCT 24, 1863 OF WOUNDS PVTD AT CHICKAMAUGA GA SEP 20, 1863
Mahlon Hunt is believed to have written home regularly to his parents. One such letter is known to survive. This letter from Mahlon Hunt to his parents Richard and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt is transcribed courtesy of Jim Gray. Jim Gray writes: "This letter was copied from the original written by Mahlon Hunt to his parents Richard and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt. Punctuation is as it appears in the original. The underscores and (?) were words which were not clear and the $¶ are Mahlon's and appear throughout the letter. Perhaps these marks were meant to conserve space on the paper, they seem to be indications of a new paragraph. The letter reads;
"Nashville, Tenn.
Aug. 18th, 1863
Dear Parents,
I take this opportunity of writing you in answer to yours of the 9th Aug., which came to hand on Sun. Aug. the 16th. Was glad to hear that you were all well again and that everything looked prosperous, that you were getting along finely with your work, would soon be through with your grain shucking. $¶Since I last wrote you there has been little or no news of importance, things go on about as usual. Warm weather. $¶Col. Magee com. the reg. The boys are on picket, or were yesterday and day before they stand two days at each turn and stand about once a week. So you see they are on duty near one third of the time this is not very hard. Well you wanted to know something more about this heavy artillery. I have written you several times about it, but perhaps have not given you the full particulars.
There is, outside of the fort and fortifications at the statehouse, eight heavy siege guns situated upon so many elevated and convenient points of advantage to operate in crossfiring and to command certain points and hollows by roads. $¶(Should an attack be made on this place) these guns are manned by from ten to fifteen men at each. We have but ten at present it is said that five more will be sent here soon. Our gun is a 32 pound Purot weighs 5515 lb. Stands near the Chult___ depot on the south side of the city the nicest and most healthy place about here the best water water I have tasted in Tenn. Our gun is in the backyard and we occupy a small house (tolerably well furnished with kitchen furniture looking glass bureau pictures $¶) of or belonging to an old man by the name of McCarne(?) though he is a pretty clever fellow he keeps a grocery and often furnishes us tomatoes potatoes cabbage $¶ which he brings to us free of charge. This is nice soldering we drill twice a day and I wouldn't mind being a regular here as long as the war lasts.
Well another rumor. One of the boys just returned from camp. Says that the brigade is ordered out again, they are to take two days rations, are also to have along two pairs socks one good pair shoes or boots. All and everything else is to be packed and stored here until transportation can be had for them. Lt. Gleves(?) is in com. of us he was just here says that we will likely be relieved from here today to go to the ___.
The boys here are all about sick over the news. I have heard to much such talk, think it a hoaks, I do. I merely spoke of this rumor that you may see how sudden things change and shan't mail this until I learn the truth of this. Since Kingsley has come in from the front will stay two to three days, he is after ___ ___ of ___ he said t hat the army is moving again.
I saw a man a solder hung yesterday he belonged to Co. H. 82nd Ind. Vol. Was hung for murdering a man of his own Co. was intoxicated at the time but on being court-martialed was sentenced to be hanged on the 15th Aug. but was reprieved until yesterday 12 o-clock, he hung just 30 minutes, was a fine looking young man. I don't think it was just to hang him, and let old Pemberton, Morgan, and such devils go un-hung, but I trust their day is coming and not far distant. You heard that I was sick at the hospital, this is a mistake. I never have been in the hospital yet, and hope I never may be as over one third of my time for which I enlisted has been put in, and I hope and trust faithfully to.
Tell me how Burnette is getting along if he has the mare or will be able to pay the notes this fall or not. I have written once but received no answer from him.
Later, Aug 20th nearly froze to death before daylight.
While I was writing day before yesterday as I stated we heard that the boys had orders to be ready to march and that would be relieved from here and go back to the Co.. I told you at that time that I would not mail this until I heard something more about it as I did not believe the rumor. It has proved true. Everything has been in confusion since then, various rumors were talked about until last night about 10 o-clock when we got orders to pack up and go to our reg. Immediately, about 15 mins. after that that order was countermanded, was ordered to stay here until 6 this morning when we would be relieved by a detail from the 3rd O.V. though all is quiet yet, but we are looking for the relief every moment when it comes we will go to the reg. which marched this morning have not heard at what hour It's destination is unknown though it is supposed that we will go in at Columbia. The boys are in no good humor about leaving here, though for my part I care but little were it not for the marching. It is said that Old Rosie is fighting in the vicinity of Chattanooga. I shall put a photograph or two in this letter. I must close in haste write soon.
Your aff. And ever mindful son M. J. Hunt"
One month after writing this letter, Mahlon Hunt was severly wound during the Battle of Chickamauga, Georgia and on October 24, 1863, Private Mahlon L. Hunt died from those wounds at the age of 26 y, 6m & 6 days. His body was originally laid in a Union burying ground in Chattanooga, but according to Lyman's biography that was listed above, Mahlon L. Hunt's body was exhumed six months later, by the family and returned to Marshall County, Illinois, where it was laid to rest in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Hunt family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on Mahlon Hunt and the Hunt family. Baxter would also like to see copies of any photographs of Mahlon Hunt, which may have survived the years, added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
(NOTE: Mahlon L. Hunt probably never had his portrait taken prior to the Civil War. However, during the 10 month period that the 86th Illinois was in the Nashville, Tennessee area in 1862-63, we know from one of his letters that, Mahlon, like most of the Union soldiers in the Nashville area, took the time to sit for a portrait to send home to the loved ones that he left behind. These portraits were most often printed in the form of what was called a CDV, a paper picture glued to a heavier card stock about the size of a modern day baseball card, and the soldiers didn't just have one or two copies made. Most of the time, they had a dozen or more made, so they could swap pictures with their tentmates, messmates and for their friends, in the 86th and back home. We know that Mahlon send at some of his pictures home to his parents.
Before 1863 came to a close, Mahlon died from wounds he received during the Battle of Chickamauga, so the pictures that were taken in Nashville are probably the only pictures that were ever made of Mahlon. Hopefully they still exist within the family, but copies may also exist in the hands of descendants of some of his tentmates and massmates. If anyone that sees this Memorial has a copy of one of those pictures of Mahlor, I would love to see a copy added to his Memorial for all with an interest to see. Can anyone seeing this help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private MAHLON HUNT, Co. B, 86th Illinois
Mahlon Hunt was born about 1837 or 1838, possibly about April 18, 1837. His tombstone appears to read that he was 26 years, 6 months and 6 days of age at the time he died. However, if this date is correct, Mahlon would have been 25 years old at the time he enlisted on August 15, 1862 and it is recorded that he was 24. This could be the error though.
Mahlon was the son of Richard Hunt and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt. Richard and Ruth were both born in New Jersey, Richard c. May 9, 1804, the son of Enoch Hunt and Catherine Hazlett, while Ruth was born c. November 17, 1812 in Trenton, New Jersey.
Richard came west to Illinois in 1828, where Richard and Ruth were married on January 1, 1833. Eight children are known to have been born to them. They include;
1. Lyman C. Hunt, born April 20, 1835 in Putnam County, Illinois and died on March 11, 1903 in ___________, Illinois; Lyman was married to Mary E. ____________; Mary was born on July 9, 1847 and died on Dec. 15, 1874. Their mortal remains were laid in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois; The following biographical information came from The Biographical Record of Bureau, Marshall and Putnam Counties, Illinois,that was published in 1896. "Lyman C. HUNT, an agriculturist of energy and ability, who is residing on section 15, Whitefield township, Marshall county, was born in Putnam county, April 20, 1835, about four miles above Magnolia, at the head of Sunday creek, and is the son of Richard and Ruth (HORROM) HUNT, both natives of New Jersey. As early as 1832 Ruth came to Illinois with her brother, Lyman HORROM. Her mother having died, her father, Dr. Timothy HORROM, came to Illinois soon afterward, and engaged in practice near Morris, but his last days were passed at the home of his son Daniel........
It was in 1828, that Richard HUNT, the father of our subject came to Illinois, located a claim on Ox Bow prairie, Ox Box Putnam County, 10 miles S of Hennepin, 5 miles long, 2 miles wide and three years later the family removed to the place. Although born in New Jersey, from the age of nine years he had resided near Zanesville, Richland county, Ohio, whence he came to Marshall county. After a two years' residence here, his father, Enoch HUNT, went to Bloomington, where he made his permanent home and there died, but his sons, John, Cornelius and Richard, all made homes near the head of Sunday creek. There the uncles of our subject reared their families and spent their last days. For some time his parents lived on the Ox Bow, and for two years at the head of Sunday creek, after which they returned to the former place. In 1842, however, they settled on the west side of the river in Whitefield township, Marshall county, then but sparsely settled. He entered several tracts of land, which he would subsequently dispose of and in this way made considerable money. The land office was then located at Galena, a distance of one hundred and twenty-five miles, and the journey thither would occupy one day and two nights, and he would generally reach the land office in time for it to open at nine a. m. He had many a race to that city in order to get ahead of some competitor. He dealt in land quite extensively and still had at the time of his death one thousand acres, which were divided among his children. He improved two good farms of about one-half section. He participated in the Black Hawk war, being a member of a scouting party for four months and helped to bury the DAVIS family who were massacred and two of the HALL girls carried away. His death occurred in September, 1881, at the age of seventy-seven years. Originally, he was a democrat, but later supported the republican party, whose principles he stanchly advocated, and did all he could to sustain the government during the civil war. Though not a member of any church, he was quite familiar with the Bible, and gave his support to religious organizations. Mrs. HUNT survived him until the summer of 1894, when she too was called to her final rest. They were buried side by side in Whitefield cemetery, where a nice family monument marks the spot.
Lyman C. HUNT, whose name introduces this review, spent his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of farmer's sons, and remained under the parental roof until thirty-five years of age, the last ten years having charge of affairs. He first settled on land adjoining the old homestead, which he had partly improved while at home, but since 1873 has lived upon his present farm, which consists of five hundred acres of valuable land. He has engaged quite extensively in stock raising, making a specialty of horses, and has had some imported Shire horses upon his place. He has also raised cattle and sheep in considerable numbers. Besides his home farm he has also invested in lands in Kansas and Nebraska.
In 1871 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. HUNT and Miss Mary COAN, daughter of David COAN, of Henry, and to them were born two children, but one died in infancy. The other, Ola Grant, is operating a farm near his father. In 1874 the wife and mother died, and on the 8th of March, 1882, Mr. HUNT was again married, his second union being with Miss Maria VanALLEN, who was born near Wenona, Illinois, in La Salle county, and is the daughter of J. L. and Sarah VanALLEN. Previous to her marriage she had engaged in teaching in Marshall county. Three children grace the second union – Lawrence R. and Elmer Lee, both in school, and Estella, who for the past two years has been in ill health, and receives the watchful and tender care of her mother.
Although not taking an active part in politics, Mr. HUNT always supports the republican ticket and generally attends the county conventions. He and his estimable wife hold a prominent position in the social circles of the community and have the confidence and esteem of all who known them."
2. Mahlon L. Hunt, born c. 1836/37 in Illinois; See his biography below.
3. Timothy S. Hunt, born c. 1838/39 in Illinois; In 1896, Timothy owns and operates a farm which belonged to his father in Marshall County, Illinois.
4. Sylvia M. Hunt, born c. 1841/42 in Illinois; Sylivia was married to Alfred J. Diehl, of Whitefield, Illinois, on April 4, 1867; Alfred served beside Mahlon in Co. B of the 86th Illinois during the Civil War; They even named their first child, Mahlon, in honor of her brother, Mahlon Hunt; See the Find A Grave site of Alfred J. Diehl for more information about Sylvia and Alfred.
5. Lydia Eleanor (or Elnora) "Ella" Hunt, born c. 1842/43 in Illinois; In 1896, Eleanor is on a claim at Hennessey, Oklahoma.
6. Eliza Jane "Jennie" Hunt, born c. 1844/45 in Illinois; ; Jennie, who became the wife of R. H. DELMEDGE, died at their home in Lorimer, Iowa, July 25, 1894, at the age of forty-seven years, leaving a husband and three children to mourn her loss;.
7. Ruth Ann Hunt, born c. 1849 in Illinois; Ruth is the wife of Benjamin ANDREWS, of Ford county, Illinois. Among Ruth and Benjamin's children was a son, Mahlon Andrews, who was named for her older brother, who died of his wounds received during the Civil War.
8. Mary Hunt, born c. 1854/55 in Illinois; In 1896, Mary is with her sister on a claim at Hennessey, Oklahoma.
At the time of the 1850 census, the Hunt family is found in Marshall County, Illinois;
Richard Hunt M 46 New Jersey
Ruth Hunt F 38 New Jersey
Lyman K Hunt M 16 Illinois
Malone L Hunt M 14 Illinois
Timothy S Hunt M 12 Illinois
Silvia M Hunt F 9 Illinois
Lydia L Hunt F 7 Illinois
Eliza J Hunt F 5 Illinois
Ruth Ann Hunt F 1 Illinois
This Hunt family is found in Whitefield Township of Marshall County, Illinois at the time of the 1860 census;
R Hunt M 56 Wisc.
Ruth Hunt F 48 N. J.
Lyman Hunt M 25 N. J.
M Hunt M 23 Ills
T Hunt M 20 Ills
Sylva Hunt F 18 Ills
Eleanor Hunt F 15 Ills
Eliza Hunt F 12 Ills
Ruth Hunt F 10 Ills
Mary Hunt F 5 Ills
Jos Fuller M 17 Prussia
Edwin Howard M 36 Ohio
Mary Howard F 39 Conn.
L Slocum F 17 Ohio
John Howard M 13 Ohio
Chas E Howard M 9 Ohio
Mary Howard F 6 Ills
Frances Howard F 4 Ills
A V Howard F 0 Ills
At the time of the 1870 census, the Hunt family is found in Marshall County, Illinois;
Richard Hunt M 66 New Jersey
Ruth Hunt F 56 New Jersey
Lyman Hunt M 35 Illinois
Ella Hunt F 24 Illinois
Jane Hunt F 22 Illinois
Mary Hunt F 15 Illinois
William Skirls M 23 England
Frank Wright M 17 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, the Hunt family is found in Whitefield Township of Marshall County, Illinois;
Self Richard Hunt M 76 New Jersey
Wife Ruth Hunt F 67 New Jersey
Daughter Elnora Hunt F 34 Illinois
Daughter Mary Hunt F 24 Illinois
Grandson ... Hunt M 8 Illinois
Nephew Allen H. Hunt M 20 Illinois
Richard Hunt died on September 24, 1881, while Ruth died on August 3, 1894. Their mortal remains were laid in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois.
Now to continue with the biography of Mahlon Hunt;
ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES
Illinois Civil War Detail Report
Name HUNT, MAHLON Rank PVT
Company B Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence WHITEFIELD, MARSHALL CO, IL
Age 24 Height 5' 7 Hair DARK
Eyes HAZEL Complexion LIGHT
Marital Status SINGLE Occupation FARMER
Nativity IL
Service Record
Joined When AUG 15, 1862
Joined Where MARSHALL CO, IL
Joined By Whom CPT BREASLEY Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862
Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom
Muster Out
Muster Out Where
Muster Out By Whom
Remarks DIED IN FIELD HOSPITAL AT CHATTANOOGA TENN OCT 24, 1863 OF WOUNDS PVTD AT CHICKAMAUGA GA SEP 20, 1863
Mahlon Hunt is believed to have written home regularly to his parents. One such letter is known to survive. This letter from Mahlon Hunt to his parents Richard and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt is transcribed courtesy of Jim Gray. Jim Gray writes: "This letter was copied from the original written by Mahlon Hunt to his parents Richard and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt. Punctuation is as it appears in the original. The underscores and (?) were words which were not clear and the $¶ are Mahlon's and appear throughout the letter. Perhaps these marks were meant to conserve space on the paper, they seem to be indications of a new paragraph. The letter reads;
"Nashville, Tenn.
Aug. 18th, 1863
Dear Parents,
I take this opportunity of writing you in answer to yours of the 9th Aug., which came to hand on Sun. Aug. the 16th. Was glad to hear that you were all well again and that everything looked prosperous, that you were getting along finely with your work, would soon be through with your grain shucking. $¶Since I last wrote you there has been little or no news of importance, things go on about as usual. Warm weather. $¶Col. Magee com. the reg. The boys are on picket, or were yesterday and day before they stand two days at each turn and stand about once a week. So you see they are on duty near one third of the time this is not very hard. Well you wanted to know something more about this heavy artillery. I have written you several times about it, but perhaps have not given you the full particulars.
There is, outside of the fort and fortifications at the statehouse, eight heavy siege guns situated upon so many elevated and convenient points of advantage to operate in crossfiring and to command certain points and hollows by roads. $¶(Should an attack be made on this place) these guns are manned by from ten to fifteen men at each. We have but ten at present it is said that five more will be sent here soon. Our gun is a 32 pound Purot weighs 5515 lb. Stands near the Chult___ depot on the south side of the city the nicest and most healthy place about here the best water water I have tasted in Tenn. Our gun is in the backyard and we occupy a small house (tolerably well furnished with kitchen furniture looking glass bureau pictures $¶) of or belonging to an old man by the name of McCarne(?) though he is a pretty clever fellow he keeps a grocery and often furnishes us tomatoes potatoes cabbage $¶ which he brings to us free of charge. This is nice soldering we drill twice a day and I wouldn't mind being a regular here as long as the war lasts.
Well another rumor. One of the boys just returned from camp. Says that the brigade is ordered out again, they are to take two days rations, are also to have along two pairs socks one good pair shoes or boots. All and everything else is to be packed and stored here until transportation can be had for them. Lt. Gleves(?) is in com. of us he was just here says that we will likely be relieved from here today to go to the ___.
The boys here are all about sick over the news. I have heard to much such talk, think it a hoaks, I do. I merely spoke of this rumor that you may see how sudden things change and shan't mail this until I learn the truth of this. Since Kingsley has come in from the front will stay two to three days, he is after ___ ___ of ___ he said t hat the army is moving again.
I saw a man a solder hung yesterday he belonged to Co. H. 82nd Ind. Vol. Was hung for murdering a man of his own Co. was intoxicated at the time but on being court-martialed was sentenced to be hanged on the 15th Aug. but was reprieved until yesterday 12 o-clock, he hung just 30 minutes, was a fine looking young man. I don't think it was just to hang him, and let old Pemberton, Morgan, and such devils go un-hung, but I trust their day is coming and not far distant. You heard that I was sick at the hospital, this is a mistake. I never have been in the hospital yet, and hope I never may be as over one third of my time for which I enlisted has been put in, and I hope and trust faithfully to.
Tell me how Burnette is getting along if he has the mare or will be able to pay the notes this fall or not. I have written once but received no answer from him.
Later, Aug 20th nearly froze to death before daylight.
While I was writing day before yesterday as I stated we heard that the boys had orders to be ready to march and that would be relieved from here and go back to the Co.. I told you at that time that I would not mail this until I heard something more about it as I did not believe the rumor. It has proved true. Everything has been in confusion since then, various rumors were talked about until last night about 10 o-clock when we got orders to pack up and go to our reg. Immediately, about 15 mins. after that that order was countermanded, was ordered to stay here until 6 this morning when we would be relieved by a detail from the 3rd O.V. though all is quiet yet, but we are looking for the relief every moment when it comes we will go to the reg. which marched this morning have not heard at what hour It's destination is unknown though it is supposed that we will go in at Columbia. The boys are in no good humor about leaving here, though for my part I care but little were it not for the marching. It is said that Old Rosie is fighting in the vicinity of Chattanooga. I shall put a photograph or two in this letter. I must close in haste write soon.
Your aff. And ever mindful son M. J. Hunt"
One month after writing this letter, Mahlon Hunt was severly wound during the Battle of Chickamauga, Georgia and on October 24, 1863, Private Mahlon L. Hunt died from those wounds at the age of 26 y, 6m & 6 days. His body was originally laid in a Union burying ground in Chattanooga, but according to Lyman's biography that was listed above, Mahlon L. Hunt's body was exhumed six months later, by the family and returned to Marshall County, Illinois, where it was laid to rest in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Hunt family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on Mahlon Hunt and the Hunt family. Baxter would also like to see copies of any photographs of Mahlon Hunt, which may have survived the years, added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
Before 1863 came to a close, Mahlon died from wounds he received during the Battle of Chickamauga, so the pictures that were taken in Nashville are probably the only pictures that were ever made of Mahlon. Hopefully they still exist within the family, but copies may also exist in the hands of descendants of some of his tentmates and massmates. If anyone that sees this Memorial has a copy of one of those pictures of Mahlor, I would love to see a copy added to his Memorial for all with an interest to see. Can anyone seeing this help me? Thanks, Baxter)
Private MAHLON HUNT, Co. B, 86th Illinois
Mahlon Hunt was born about 1837 or 1838, possibly about April 18, 1837. His tombstone appears to read that he was 26 years, 6 months and 6 days of age at the time he died. However, if this date is correct, Mahlon would have been 25 years old at the time he enlisted on August 15, 1862 and it is recorded that he was 24. This could be the error though.
Mahlon was the son of Richard Hunt and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt. Richard and Ruth were both born in New Jersey, Richard c. May 9, 1804, the son of Enoch Hunt and Catherine Hazlett, while Ruth was born c. November 17, 1812 in Trenton, New Jersey.
Richard came west to Illinois in 1828, where Richard and Ruth were married on January 1, 1833. Eight children are known to have been born to them. They include;
1. Lyman C. Hunt, born April 20, 1835 in Putnam County, Illinois and died on March 11, 1903 in ___________, Illinois; Lyman was married to Mary E. ____________; Mary was born on July 9, 1847 and died on Dec. 15, 1874. Their mortal remains were laid in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois; The following biographical information came from The Biographical Record of Bureau, Marshall and Putnam Counties, Illinois,that was published in 1896. "Lyman C. HUNT, an agriculturist of energy and ability, who is residing on section 15, Whitefield township, Marshall county, was born in Putnam county, April 20, 1835, about four miles above Magnolia, at the head of Sunday creek, and is the son of Richard and Ruth (HORROM) HUNT, both natives of New Jersey. As early as 1832 Ruth came to Illinois with her brother, Lyman HORROM. Her mother having died, her father, Dr. Timothy HORROM, came to Illinois soon afterward, and engaged in practice near Morris, but his last days were passed at the home of his son Daniel........
It was in 1828, that Richard HUNT, the father of our subject came to Illinois, located a claim on Ox Bow prairie, Ox Box Putnam County, 10 miles S of Hennepin, 5 miles long, 2 miles wide and three years later the family removed to the place. Although born in New Jersey, from the age of nine years he had resided near Zanesville, Richland county, Ohio, whence he came to Marshall county. After a two years' residence here, his father, Enoch HUNT, went to Bloomington, where he made his permanent home and there died, but his sons, John, Cornelius and Richard, all made homes near the head of Sunday creek. There the uncles of our subject reared their families and spent their last days. For some time his parents lived on the Ox Bow, and for two years at the head of Sunday creek, after which they returned to the former place. In 1842, however, they settled on the west side of the river in Whitefield township, Marshall county, then but sparsely settled. He entered several tracts of land, which he would subsequently dispose of and in this way made considerable money. The land office was then located at Galena, a distance of one hundred and twenty-five miles, and the journey thither would occupy one day and two nights, and he would generally reach the land office in time for it to open at nine a. m. He had many a race to that city in order to get ahead of some competitor. He dealt in land quite extensively and still had at the time of his death one thousand acres, which were divided among his children. He improved two good farms of about one-half section. He participated in the Black Hawk war, being a member of a scouting party for four months and helped to bury the DAVIS family who were massacred and two of the HALL girls carried away. His death occurred in September, 1881, at the age of seventy-seven years. Originally, he was a democrat, but later supported the republican party, whose principles he stanchly advocated, and did all he could to sustain the government during the civil war. Though not a member of any church, he was quite familiar with the Bible, and gave his support to religious organizations. Mrs. HUNT survived him until the summer of 1894, when she too was called to her final rest. They were buried side by side in Whitefield cemetery, where a nice family monument marks the spot.
Lyman C. HUNT, whose name introduces this review, spent his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of farmer's sons, and remained under the parental roof until thirty-five years of age, the last ten years having charge of affairs. He first settled on land adjoining the old homestead, which he had partly improved while at home, but since 1873 has lived upon his present farm, which consists of five hundred acres of valuable land. He has engaged quite extensively in stock raising, making a specialty of horses, and has had some imported Shire horses upon his place. He has also raised cattle and sheep in considerable numbers. Besides his home farm he has also invested in lands in Kansas and Nebraska.
In 1871 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. HUNT and Miss Mary COAN, daughter of David COAN, of Henry, and to them were born two children, but one died in infancy. The other, Ola Grant, is operating a farm near his father. In 1874 the wife and mother died, and on the 8th of March, 1882, Mr. HUNT was again married, his second union being with Miss Maria VanALLEN, who was born near Wenona, Illinois, in La Salle county, and is the daughter of J. L. and Sarah VanALLEN. Previous to her marriage she had engaged in teaching in Marshall county. Three children grace the second union – Lawrence R. and Elmer Lee, both in school, and Estella, who for the past two years has been in ill health, and receives the watchful and tender care of her mother.
Although not taking an active part in politics, Mr. HUNT always supports the republican ticket and generally attends the county conventions. He and his estimable wife hold a prominent position in the social circles of the community and have the confidence and esteem of all who known them."
2. Mahlon L. Hunt, born c. 1836/37 in Illinois; See his biography below.
3. Timothy S. Hunt, born c. 1838/39 in Illinois; In 1896, Timothy owns and operates a farm which belonged to his father in Marshall County, Illinois.
4. Sylvia M. Hunt, born c. 1841/42 in Illinois; Sylivia was married to Alfred J. Diehl, of Whitefield, Illinois, on April 4, 1867; Alfred served beside Mahlon in Co. B of the 86th Illinois during the Civil War; They even named their first child, Mahlon, in honor of her brother, Mahlon Hunt; See the Find A Grave site of Alfred J. Diehl for more information about Sylvia and Alfred.
5. Lydia Eleanor (or Elnora) "Ella" Hunt, born c. 1842/43 in Illinois; In 1896, Eleanor is on a claim at Hennessey, Oklahoma.
6. Eliza Jane "Jennie" Hunt, born c. 1844/45 in Illinois; ; Jennie, who became the wife of R. H. DELMEDGE, died at their home in Lorimer, Iowa, July 25, 1894, at the age of forty-seven years, leaving a husband and three children to mourn her loss;.
7. Ruth Ann Hunt, born c. 1849 in Illinois; Ruth is the wife of Benjamin ANDREWS, of Ford county, Illinois. Among Ruth and Benjamin's children was a son, Mahlon Andrews, who was named for her older brother, who died of his wounds received during the Civil War.
8. Mary Hunt, born c. 1854/55 in Illinois; In 1896, Mary is with her sister on a claim at Hennessey, Oklahoma.
At the time of the 1850 census, the Hunt family is found in Marshall County, Illinois;
Richard Hunt M 46 New Jersey
Ruth Hunt F 38 New Jersey
Lyman K Hunt M 16 Illinois
Malone L Hunt M 14 Illinois
Timothy S Hunt M 12 Illinois
Silvia M Hunt F 9 Illinois
Lydia L Hunt F 7 Illinois
Eliza J Hunt F 5 Illinois
Ruth Ann Hunt F 1 Illinois
This Hunt family is found in Whitefield Township of Marshall County, Illinois at the time of the 1860 census;
R Hunt M 56 Wisc.
Ruth Hunt F 48 N. J.
Lyman Hunt M 25 N. J.
M Hunt M 23 Ills
T Hunt M 20 Ills
Sylva Hunt F 18 Ills
Eleanor Hunt F 15 Ills
Eliza Hunt F 12 Ills
Ruth Hunt F 10 Ills
Mary Hunt F 5 Ills
Jos Fuller M 17 Prussia
Edwin Howard M 36 Ohio
Mary Howard F 39 Conn.
L Slocum F 17 Ohio
John Howard M 13 Ohio
Chas E Howard M 9 Ohio
Mary Howard F 6 Ills
Frances Howard F 4 Ills
A V Howard F 0 Ills
At the time of the 1870 census, the Hunt family is found in Marshall County, Illinois;
Richard Hunt M 66 New Jersey
Ruth Hunt F 56 New Jersey
Lyman Hunt M 35 Illinois
Ella Hunt F 24 Illinois
Jane Hunt F 22 Illinois
Mary Hunt F 15 Illinois
William Skirls M 23 England
Frank Wright M 17 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, the Hunt family is found in Whitefield Township of Marshall County, Illinois;
Self Richard Hunt M 76 New Jersey
Wife Ruth Hunt F 67 New Jersey
Daughter Elnora Hunt F 34 Illinois
Daughter Mary Hunt F 24 Illinois
Grandson ... Hunt M 8 Illinois
Nephew Allen H. Hunt M 20 Illinois
Richard Hunt died on September 24, 1881, while Ruth died on August 3, 1894. Their mortal remains were laid in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois.
Now to continue with the biography of Mahlon Hunt;
ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES
Illinois Civil War Detail Report
Name HUNT, MAHLON Rank PVT
Company B Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence WHITEFIELD, MARSHALL CO, IL
Age 24 Height 5' 7 Hair DARK
Eyes HAZEL Complexion LIGHT
Marital Status SINGLE Occupation FARMER
Nativity IL
Service Record
Joined When AUG 15, 1862
Joined Where MARSHALL CO, IL
Joined By Whom CPT BREASLEY Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862
Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom
Muster Out
Muster Out Where
Muster Out By Whom
Remarks DIED IN FIELD HOSPITAL AT CHATTANOOGA TENN OCT 24, 1863 OF WOUNDS PVTD AT CHICKAMAUGA GA SEP 20, 1863
Mahlon Hunt is believed to have written home regularly to his parents. One such letter is known to survive. This letter from Mahlon Hunt to his parents Richard and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt is transcribed courtesy of Jim Gray. Jim Gray writes: "This letter was copied from the original written by Mahlon Hunt to his parents Richard and Ruth (Horrom) Hunt. Punctuation is as it appears in the original. The underscores and (?) were words which were not clear and the $¶ are Mahlon's and appear throughout the letter. Perhaps these marks were meant to conserve space on the paper, they seem to be indications of a new paragraph. The letter reads;
"Nashville, Tenn.
Aug. 18th, 1863
Dear Parents,
I take this opportunity of writing you in answer to yours of the 9th Aug., which came to hand on Sun. Aug. the 16th. Was glad to hear that you were all well again and that everything looked prosperous, that you were getting along finely with your work, would soon be through with your grain shucking. $¶Since I last wrote you there has been little or no news of importance, things go on about as usual. Warm weather. $¶Col. Magee com. the reg. The boys are on picket, or were yesterday and day before they stand two days at each turn and stand about once a week. So you see they are on duty near one third of the time this is not very hard. Well you wanted to know something more about this heavy artillery. I have written you several times about it, but perhaps have not given you the full particulars.
There is, outside of the fort and fortifications at the statehouse, eight heavy siege guns situated upon so many elevated and convenient points of advantage to operate in crossfiring and to command certain points and hollows by roads. $¶(Should an attack be made on this place) these guns are manned by from ten to fifteen men at each. We have but ten at present it is said that five more will be sent here soon. Our gun is a 32 pound Purot weighs 5515 lb. Stands near the Chult___ depot on the south side of the city the nicest and most healthy place about here the best water water I have tasted in Tenn. Our gun is in the backyard and we occupy a small house (tolerably well furnished with kitchen furniture looking glass bureau pictures $¶) of or belonging to an old man by the name of McCarne(?) though he is a pretty clever fellow he keeps a grocery and often furnishes us tomatoes potatoes cabbage $¶ which he brings to us free of charge. This is nice soldering we drill twice a day and I wouldn't mind being a regular here as long as the war lasts.
Well another rumor. One of the boys just returned from camp. Says that the brigade is ordered out again, they are to take two days rations, are also to have along two pairs socks one good pair shoes or boots. All and everything else is to be packed and stored here until transportation can be had for them. Lt. Gleves(?) is in com. of us he was just here says that we will likely be relieved from here today to go to the ___.
The boys here are all about sick over the news. I have heard to much such talk, think it a hoaks, I do. I merely spoke of this rumor that you may see how sudden things change and shan't mail this until I learn the truth of this. Since Kingsley has come in from the front will stay two to three days, he is after ___ ___ of ___ he said t hat the army is moving again.
I saw a man a solder hung yesterday he belonged to Co. H. 82nd Ind. Vol. Was hung for murdering a man of his own Co. was intoxicated at the time but on being court-martialed was sentenced to be hanged on the 15th Aug. but was reprieved until yesterday 12 o-clock, he hung just 30 minutes, was a fine looking young man. I don't think it was just to hang him, and let old Pemberton, Morgan, and such devils go un-hung, but I trust their day is coming and not far distant. You heard that I was sick at the hospital, this is a mistake. I never have been in the hospital yet, and hope I never may be as over one third of my time for which I enlisted has been put in, and I hope and trust faithfully to.
Tell me how Burnette is getting along if he has the mare or will be able to pay the notes this fall or not. I have written once but received no answer from him.
Later, Aug 20th nearly froze to death before daylight.
While I was writing day before yesterday as I stated we heard that the boys had orders to be ready to march and that would be relieved from here and go back to the Co.. I told you at that time that I would not mail this until I heard something more about it as I did not believe the rumor. It has proved true. Everything has been in confusion since then, various rumors were talked about until last night about 10 o-clock when we got orders to pack up and go to our reg. Immediately, about 15 mins. after that that order was countermanded, was ordered to stay here until 6 this morning when we would be relieved by a detail from the 3rd O.V. though all is quiet yet, but we are looking for the relief every moment when it comes we will go to the reg. which marched this morning have not heard at what hour It's destination is unknown though it is supposed that we will go in at Columbia. The boys are in no good humor about leaving here, though for my part I care but little were it not for the marching. It is said that Old Rosie is fighting in the vicinity of Chattanooga. I shall put a photograph or two in this letter. I must close in haste write soon.
Your aff. And ever mindful son M. J. Hunt"
One month after writing this letter, Mahlon Hunt was severly wound during the Battle of Chickamauga, Georgia and on October 24, 1863, Private Mahlon L. Hunt died from those wounds at the age of 26 y, 6m & 6 days. His body was originally laid in a Union burying ground in Chattanooga, but according to Lyman's biography that was listed above, Mahlon L. Hunt's body was exhumed six months later, by the family and returned to Marshall County, Illinois, where it was laid to rest in the Whitefield Cemetery near Henry, Marshall County, Illinois.
by Baxter B. Fite III
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Hunt family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on Mahlon Hunt and the Hunt family. Baxter would also like to see copies of any photographs of Mahlon Hunt, which may have survived the years, added to his Find A Grave site for all to see.)
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