1860 census records listed Edward S. Hirst as a 30 year old miller who was born in England. His wife at the time was Cordelia, age 28, born in New York. Daughters, Elletta C., age 7, born in Michigan and Ellen, age 5, also born in Michigan. Son, John, H., age 3, born in Michigan. Elsie Homler, age 17, born in Michigan, was also listed as a part of the household.
Edward bought the Clarkston mill property from Jeremiah & Nelson W. Clark in 1859. His partners were Erastus Stiff & his wife, Theodocia. They operated the saw mill, grist mill & a plaster mill. The property also included a salt & lime house & hay scales. The Hirst/Hurst residence was 76 N. Main.
