Hinton, Richard J. (Richard Josiah), 1830-1901

Richard J. Hinton was born on November 26, 1830, in London, England. Hinton crossed the Atlantic in 1851 and took up residence in New York City. While there he learned the printer's trade and soon became a newspaper reporter for several different newspapers in that city, as well as in Boston. As a reporter he opposed the Fugitive Slave Law, became an anti-slavery advocate, and assisted in the organization of the Republican Party. In June 1856 Hinton set out with other free-state emigrants, reached Kansas Territory in August, and took up residency in Lawrence. Hinton helped recruit volunteers for the First Kansas Colored Infantry Regiment early in 1862 and was appointed its adjutant with the rank of first lieutenant. Promoted to captain of Company B, Second Kansas Colored on October 21, 1863, Hinton mustered out of military service in November 1865, having reached the brevet rank of colonel. He finished the war serving as acting inspector general of the Freedman's Bureau as well as being sent South from Washington for a time on secret service work ordered by President Abraham Lincoln. Following the war, Hinton contributed articles to many different magazines and wrote several books. He also held several politically appointed positions within the federal government. While on business in London, England, Hinton died suddenly on December 20, 1901, leaving behind a wife, Isabella H. Hinton, and two sons, George F. and Ralph Hinton.

From the description of Richard Josiah Hinton papers, 1853-1902. (Kansas State Historical Society). WorldCat record id: 701559522