H. E. Hitchings (Biography)

[genealogynut]

Taken from History of the State of Kansas, by WIlliam G. Cutler

H. E. HITCHINGS, farmer and fruit grower, P.O. Moline, was born in Jackson County, Mich., in 1842, was raised there until 1856, when he emigrated to Montgomery County, Ill., remained there until 1871, when he settled in Kansas, locating in Elk County (then Howard) and took a claim on Section 20, Township 31, Range 10.  Was one of the pioneers of Wild Cat Township, was forty-five miles from a railroad point, and it was several years before there was any market nearer.  Has improved his place by breaking fifty acres and planting forest and fruit trees, has one of the finest maple groves in the township; makes a specialty of raising fruit for market, his place being well adapted for the purpose, and only two miles from market.  Mr. Hitchings raises the most fruit in this part of the county, and is of the best quality, commanding the highest prices in the market, besides this is quite extensively engaged in stock-raising, being one of the most enterprising men of the county.  In 1872, was united in marriage to Miss Phidelia Ashmore, daughter of Judge Ashmore, of Elk County.  The have six children, viz: Maud A. Ellen E.., Joseph M., Richard N., John P., and Annie L.  Is a member of Moline Literary Society.