HASTINGS, Hugh J., journalist, born in County Fermanagh, Ireland, 20 August, 1820; died in Monmouth Beach, New Jersey, 12 September, 1883. He came to the United States in 1831, and settled with his family in Albany, New York After having been for some time engaged as a clerk, he began his career as reporter for the Albany "Atlas" in 1840. Three years afterward he established the Albany "Weekly Switch," and in 1844 the "Knickerbocker," which proved a success. Mr. Hastings took an active part in state and national politics, devoting himself to the interests of the Whig party and its successor, the Republican party. He was appointed by President Taylor collector of the port of Albany, but resigned the office under Fillmore. He assumed the editorship of the New York "Commercial Advertiser" in 1868, and in 1875 became its proprietor, he was a warm supporter of General Grant, criticised Mr. Hayes's administration, and on President Arthur's accession rendered him all the aid in his power, His death was mainly the result of his being thrown from his carriage while driving along Broadway, Long Branch.