Benjamin H. McKinsey is one of the younger business element of Champaign, a vigorous and progressive citizen and a man who makes good his promises and professions at whatever cost or sacrifice to himself.
He was born in Urbana, August 21, 1888, son of Jacob and Mary E. (Young) McKinsey. His father was born at Antioch, Indiana, while his mother is a native of Leverett, Champaign County. Jacob McKinsey came to Champaign County about 1886, locating at Urbana, and for a number of years was an agent for Cole Brothers, lightning rod manufacturers. He continued a resident of Urbana until his death in 1896.
The only child of his parents, Benjamin H. McKinsey had the advantages of the common schools and early sought a means of earning his own living. In 1906, at the age of eighteen, he went with the Champaign Gas Company and worked as a gas fitter about two years. Another two years he was employed in Urbana as a boiler maker helper. Mr. McKinsey then entered the establishment of Mr. A. Peters, and for the past eight years has been in his employ.
On December 23, 1909, he married Miss Stacia Hall, a native of Champaign. They have one child, Lawrence. Mr. McKinsey is a Democrat and has served as alderman from the First Ward. He has always been interested in politics and has served three years as democratic committeeman. Fraternally he is identified with the Masonic lodge.