In 1835, James Hite, an immigrant from Kentucky who moved to Coles County in 1831, created a village named after himself.

During its peak, there were many homes and several markets, but about 10–15 years later, the town was forgotten and many people left.

James Hite planted a Presbyterian church, which the preacher was Rev.

John Steele, and was in use until James Hite moved.

Many of the members, mainly from the St. Omer area, left to attend a new church in Ashmore.