James Millikin

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James Millikin ( 1827 - 1909 ) is the founder of Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois. He was born in Ten Mile, Pennsylvania.

He began his business career in driving herds of livestock to the mid-west for sale, at the same time buying up land for re-sale. He became known as a livestock breeder and seller. Millikin moved to Decatur in 1856 and made his new home there, getting married the next year.

Later, Millikin became a local banker and helped found Millikin University. When the college opened in 1903, the inaugural address was made by President Theodore Roosevelt.

He died in Decatur.