Cornthwaite John Hector facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cornthwaite John Hector
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| Born | May 6, 1835 |
| Died | January 6, 1898 (aged 62) Crescent City, Florida, U.S.
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| Resting place | Melbourne Cemetery, Melbourne, Florida, U.S. |
| Occupation | grocer, postmaster |
| Spouse(s) | Ida Gard (m. October 10, 1895) |
| Children | George Nelson Hector |
Cornthwaite John Hector (born May 6, 1835 – died 1898) was an important person in Florida's history. He is known as the founder of the city of Melbourne, Florida. He also served as its very first postmaster.
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Who Was Cornthwaite John Hector?
Cornthwaite John Hector was born on May 6, 1835. His birthplace was Van Diemen's Land, which is now called Tasmania, Australia. His parents were Cornthwaite and Elizabeth Hector. They had moved to Australia from England.
Early Life and Adventures
When Cornthwaite was a young boy, his family moved to Kororāreka, New Zealand. At just ten years old, he was present during the Battle of Kororāreka. He was recognized for his bravery during the battle. Reports said he showed "gallant conduct" by bringing ammunition to soldiers while under heavy fire.
Hector and his brother, George Nelson Hector, later worked for Bishop George Augustus Selwyn. The Bishop was the first Bishop of New Zealand. They helped him travel around the islands of the Pacific Ocean on his ships.
Moving to America
Many English people left New Zealand during the Maori Wars. The Hector family, except for George Nelson, moved to Australia. Cornthwaite John Hector later came to America around 1878.
At that time, the area where Melbourne, Florida, now stands was called Crane Creek. Hector opened a general store there. He also became the first postmaster for the community.
Naming the City of Melbourne
Cornthwaite Hector played a big part in naming the city of Melbourne. There are a few different stories about how it happened. One popular story says that Mrs. R.W. Goode suggested the name. She wanted to honor Hector.
Even though he was honored, Hector supposedly preferred a different name for the town. To decide, they drew straws. Grace Goode drew the straw that said "Melbourne," and that's how the city got its name.
Later Life and Legacy
Cornthwaite Hector was confirmed at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in 1887. He was 51 years old at the time. He married Ida M. Gard on October 10, 1895.
Hector passed away in Crescent City, Florida, on January 6, 1898. He was buried in the Melbourne Cemetery. Today, he is remembered as the founder of Melbourne, Florida.
