Cornthwaite John Hector

Cornthwaite John Hector (6 May 1835 – 6 January 1898) was the founder of Melbourne, Florida, and its first postmaster.

Early life and family Cornthwaite John Hector was born 6 May 1835, in Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania), though his application to start a post office lists his birthplace as Liverpool, England. He was the son of Cornthwaite Hector and Elizabeth Budd. By 1840 the family had moved to Kororāreka, New Zealand.

At ten years of age, Hector was present at the Battle of Kororāreka.

Hector in America Hector came to America in or before 1878. At the time, Melbourne was known as Crane Creek. Hector became the first postmaster and operated a general store.

He was influential in the naming of the city of Melbourne, although there are several versions of the story. Mrs. R.W. Goode is credited with suggesting the name to honor Hector, although he is said to have favored a different name. Straws representing various names were drawn by Grace Goode, and the "Melbourne" straw was the one drawn.

Hector was confirmed at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church on 21 April 1887, at the age of 51. He married Ida M. Gard on 10 October 1895, at Holy Trinity United.

Hector died at Crescent City, Florida, on 6 January 1898, and was buried at the Melbourne Cemetery.