[1] He founded Hardin College and was one of the eight founders of Beta Theta Pi fraternity.

[1][3] During his time at Miami University, he helped to found Beta Theta Pi fraternity.

[4] During the Civil War, he returned to the family farm in Audrain County, Missouri in 1862.

[1] Hardin also reduced Missouri's debt from the Civil War and state funding for railroad expansion by ending wasteful practices and refinancing bonds.

In 1873, Hardin gave land worth $60,000 to the college and afterward served as the president of its board.

[4] In 1892, he died from conditions relating to old age in Ringo House in Mexico, Missouri.