Hamilton, John, 1843-1921

John Hamilton was Treasurer of Pennsylvania State College for thirty-seven years, Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture, and Chief, Office of Experiment Stations, U.S. Department of Agriculture.

John Hamilton was born in Juniata County, Pa., on February 19, 1843. In 1861, he joined the First Pennsylvania Reserve Cavalry. John Hamilton began his studies at the Agricultural College of Pennsylvania in 1865. In 1866, he was appointed the Superintendent of the Farm and he suspended his studies to develop the farms. In 1869, he resumed his studies and graduated in 1871 after which he was appointed professor of agriculture and military instructor. He married Elizabeth McFarlane on October 27, 1884. In 1890, he was elected Trustee of Pennsylvania State College (elected by alumni). John Hamilton was affiliated with the Pennsylvania State College in various capacities including professor of agriculture, business manager, and treasurer until his retirement in 1911. In 1895, he was appointed Deputy Secretary of Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and Director of Farmers' Institutes. In 1899, he was appointed Secretary of Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. In 1921, he was awarded an honorary Master of Science degree by Pennsylvania State College. He died on July 5, 1921 in State College, Pennsylvania.