Practically all of the Hunts in America are of English descent, and a family of this name coming from Ireland is rarely to be met with. Those about to be mentioned, however, are the exception. and are numbered among the great mass of their countrymen who, while preserving their identity to a greater or less extent, have become one of the important component parts of the American people.
Among the sturdy Irishmen who were compelled by famine and oppression to emigrate to the United States prior to 1850, was William Hunt, a native of Queens county. Instead of remaining for any great length of time in a large centre of people he wisely sought a home in the agricultural districts and settling in Geneseo, Livingston county, New York, he found ample opportunity for the exercise of his industry and thrift. He married Johanna Conroy, also a native of Ireland. Children John F., a resident of Rochester, New York; Thomas R., who also is residing in that city; Charles J.; Mary, married Patrick Landers; Johanna, (lied November 4, 1898; and William J.. whose sketch follows. All received the advantages of a good education and careful moral training.
William J., a son of William and Johanna Hunt. was born in Geneseo, New York, August 4, 1869. He pursued his preliminary studies at district school No. 3, in his native town, and attended for three years the. Geneseo Normal School. At the age of twenty-one he engaged in farming during the summer season, devoting his winters to teaching school, and he was thus employed for about five years. In 1894 the was appointed supervisor of the Craig Colony for Epileptics at Sonyea, New York, after passing the competitive civil service examination, and the continued to serve in that capacity with marked ability until 1901, when he resigned. From the latter year to the present time he has been actively engaged in the life insurance business in Geneva, New York, representing some of the most prominent companies and securing a large number of policy holders in that locality. As a business man and public official Mr. Hunt has won an enviable reputation for his honesty and efficiency and is highly esteemed by his fellow citizens. He is secretary of the general board of education, was appointed a member of the purchasing committee under the administration of Mayor Rose and reappointed by Mayor O’Malley, and has earnestly endeavored to protect and forward the interests of the municipality. As the Democratic candidate for the assembly he made a gallant fight in a district which is strongly Republican, and he succeeded in cutting down the majority of Eugene Burnett, his opponent, to very small figures. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus, and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He attends St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church.
June 16, 1897, Mr. Hunt married at Mount Morris, New York, Miss Katherine B. Hannon, of Moscow, this state. daughter of Patrick and Mary Hannon. Mr. and Mrs. Hunt have one son. Joseph, born November 7, 1898.