John Huston, the seventh child of William and Mary (Winder) Huston, was born in the town of Leroy, Jefferson County, New York, on June 30, 1809. His early life was spent working on a farm, and the only education he received was the meagre one afforded by the rude district school of those days.

He sailed a short time on the lakes; had a great fondness for the water; was an expert swimmer, and saved many persons from drowning, notably his friend, Hugh Clide, who, as they were crossing the Detroit river in 1827, narrowly escaped death by the capsizing of the canoe. Mr. Clide would have drowned but for the skillful swimming of his friend.

On January 4th, 1827, Mr. Huston came to Michigan, but only remained two years, and then returned to New York State where, on September 26, 1830, he was married to Laura Bentley. In the spring of 1833 he returned, with his family, to the wilds of Michigan, traveling by way of the Erie Canal to Buffalo, and then by boat to Detroit.

Shortly after their arrival in Detroit they removed to Canton, Wayne County, being obliged to make part of the journey on foot on account of the almost impassible condition of the roads. The place where they located was a wilderness, and they underwent the hardships and labors that mark the pioneer's life. They were far removed from any town or store, and were often dependent upon Huston's gun for a living.

Mr. Huston united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, but is now prevented by his years from giving active attention to church work. He was a Democrat until the nomination of John C. Fremont for the Presidency, and since then he has been a Republican.

His family consists of eight children, namely: Mary, born February 3, 1832; Robert, born November 7, 1833; Amanda, born February 6, 1836; John J., born May 13, 1838; Sally, born January 2, 1840; Laura, born November 13, 1841; Elizabeth, born February 15, 1844; Eliza, born January 11, 1847.

Mr. Huston has always led a farmer's life, and, by strict economy, has accumulated a competence sufficient to keep him and his faithful helpmate in their old age. Their life and habits have been simple, and they are greatly esteemed by the many who know them for their honest and upright ways.