History of Rush County Indiana Brant & Fuller
Chicago
1888
Page 778, 779

ROBERT N. HINCHMAN is one of the leading farmers of Union Township. He is a native of Rush County, and the son of James and Nancy Hinchman, early pioneers, whose biographies appear in this volume. He was born February 9, 1843, and spent his boyhood and youth on the farm, receiving a fair education in the district schools. On August 10, 1864, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah J. Kirkpatrick, a native of Union Township, and the daughter of David and Jane (Oldham) Kirkpatrick, the former a native of Kentucky, and the latter of Tennessee. The Kirkpatricks were among the first settlers of Rush County. The family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Hinchman has been blessed with six children, four of whom are living at this writing. They are: Carrie B., Van A., Eva M., and William E. They began life together on the farm where they now reside, which will compare favorably with the best-improved farms in the county. Farming has been his principal occupation in life, although in the fall of 1873, he removed to Rushville, where he resided until 1876, when he returned to the farm. Politically, he has been identified with the Republican Party and has worked hard for its success in the county. In 1876, he was elected County Commissioner, and for eleven consecutive years he has held that responsible position. During his official term the county debt has been wiped out, and numerous bridges and other public improvements have been made. The county is now out of debt, and can be classed among the foremost in the State as to public improvements. Mr. Hinchman retires from the Board of Commissioners with the good will and praise that a faithful public servant should receive from all parties. In connection with his farm labors, he is also engaged in buying grain at GingĺŐs Station, a village on the J., M. & I. K. R., located one-half mile northeast of his farm. Honest and upright in all his dealings, Mr. Hinchman can be classed among the substantial citizens of Rush County.