Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor
Page 1333
HUNTINGTON, GEORGE LATHROP (deceased), for many years identified with the business life of Springfield, serving for two years as Mayor of the city, was born in Norwich, Conn., in May, 1812, and died in Springfield, Ill., May 26, 1874. He was a son of Jonathan and Anna (Lathrop) Huntington, both natives of Norwich, Conn. The ancestors of Mr. Huntington were prominent in New England in colonial times, having served in the colonial wars and also in the War of the Revolution.
Mr. Huntington received his education in Boston, Mass., and having a natural taste for music, received excellent training along this line and in the classics. He came west as a young man and embarked in the dry-goods business in St. Louis, Mo., later moving to Springfield, Ill., where for many years he conducted a similar business. He became interested in various other business enterprises, for a time being connected with the Great Western Railroad. He was also successful as a lumber merchant, displaying both business judgment and superior energy in caring for his financial interests, as a consequence accumulating considerable property, including city real estate and several farms in Sangamon County. Mr. Huntington took an active part in political affairs, being affiliated with the Democratic party, and the people of Springfield showed their appreciation, for two terms (1861-63) electing him to the office of Mayor, which he filled with ability and satisfaction. He always had at heart the progress and welfare of the city and assisted in laying out beautiful Oak Ridge Cemetery, which contains the tomb of Abraham Lincoln.
Mr. Huntington took great interest in various benevolent societies, and being a man of kindly disposition and generous instinct, contribut3ed largely to private charities as well. He was a loving husband and father, a true and kind friend, and became a social leader. He was very fond of music and fond of other arts as well. He became Musical Director of the Philharmonic Society, and his home was the scene of many pleasant gatherings which were well remembered by those present. He as much beloved in social circles and was highly esteemed and respected as a citizen. His loss was felt keenly in many circles and he is still remembered by those who had the pleasure of his friendship as a man of more than usual talent and worth. He was a member of the Episcopal Church.
Mr. Huntington was married in St. Louis, Mo., to Hannah Flagg Forbes, daughter of Franklin and Clarissa (Nichols) Forbes, both natives of Boston, Mass. Nine children blessed their union, namely: Mary, died in infancy; Charles, a commander in the United States Navy; Alice, Emily, George, Clara; Ellen, widow of Thomas C. Henkle; Arthur and Leonora. Mrs. Huntington was noted for her personal beauty and intellectual attainments. She was a social favorite in all the great functions during the time of Abraham Lincoln. She died in 1893.