CAPT. J. A. HURT, hotel proprietor, Athens; son of James K. and Melinda (Preston) Hurt, and was born near Springfield, Ill., Dec. 22, 1829; his parents came from Warren Co., Ky., settling at his birthplace in 1828; they came to Athens, Menard Co., in 1832. His father died in June 1851; his mother still survives, in good health, at the age of 71. Captain is the oldest of the family of twelve, eight of whom are now living. During the late war he enlisted with the 28th I.V.I. serving in this regiment about one year, as First Lieutenant, and afterward went out with the 106th. Since the war, he has followed agricultural pursuits, together with hotel business. He was licensed an M.E. Preacher by the M.E. Church, in 1866, and has since been a faithful Christian worker. He was elected Justice of the Peace in 1866, and again 1877, which office he now holds. He is an industrious benevolent, and a much respected citizen.