The retiring Richland County Infirmary Superintendent

The subject of this sketch, Mr. Joseph M. Hunter, whose well known features adorn the article, yesterday closed his official connection as superintendent of the Richland County Infirmary after seven years of faithful, efficient and economical administration of its internal affairs, and returns to his farm in Bloominggrove Township and to private life. 

Mr. Hunter was born April 29th., 1844 in Bloominggrove township, and was married to Miss Alice Miller, of Shenandoah, on March 12th., 1874.  Five children were born to them and on March 15th., 1883, Mr. and Mrs. Hunter took charge, as superintendent and matron respectively, of the Infirmary.  On May 17th., 1888, Mrs. Hunter died.

During Mr. Hunter's administration of the Infirmary that institution reached a high degree of perfection in management and its reputation soon became known over the state.  His ability in his official capacity was acknowledged by all and is testified to by the fact that for two terms he was elected President of the Ohio State Infirmary Superintendents Association.  When Mr. H. took charge of the poor farm, it was not a very valuable piece of property, but by excellent management and splendid judgment in making improvements, such as tilling, ditching, etc., the new barn (45x90 feet) recently erected, is inadequate to garner the crops.  The new laundry, building just completed is also a valuable addition to the institution.  Mr. Hunter put into practical operation and use the valuable springs on the farm, by which the other building is now supplied with natural water works, the force of which is sufficient to carry water to the upper floors and throw water to the highest point in case of fire.  All these, and many more improvements, cost money and increased the outlay of the poor fund during his tenure of office to the amount of $3,716.16.  This amount of course has been charged to the per capita expense in supporting the poor in the reports of same, but should not, as every dollar is and should be considered capital on hand.

When Mr. Hunter took charge of the Infirmary there were 105 inmates;  received since that time 324;  born 10;  discharged 310;  died 65, total at Infirmary April 1st., 1890, 73;  average per year 89. 

While everybody wishes for his successor at the Infirmary the full measure of success, Mr. Hunter retires with the best wishes and encomiums of the public whom he served well and faithfully.  Time will tell what there is in store for him.  Such an universally popular man as Joe. Hunter will not be allowed to remain long in retirement.

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