Born in Greencastle, Indiana, Hunter moved with his parents to Paris, Illinois, in 1832. He attended the common schools and Edgar Academy. He worked as a civil engineer from 1852 to 1856.
Hunter was born in Greencastle, Indiana, before moving with his parents to Paris, Illinois, in 1832. He pursued his education at local schools and the prestigious Edgar Academy. Later, he dedicated himself to a career as a civil engineer from 1852 to 1856.