Kinkead was born in the now defunct town of Smithfield in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, on October 10, 1826, to Catherine (Bushey) and James S.

[1] He also became the first United States official to hold office in Alaska when he was appointed postmaster by President Andrew Johnson.

[5] In addition to his postal duties, Kinkead operated a trading post and served as Sitka, Alaska's unofficial mayor.

[1] His efforts during this period included founding Washoe City, building smelters in Pleasant Valley and Austin, and becoming an early promoter for the Virginia and Truckee Railroad.

[6]While in office he supported mining efforts, creation of toll roads, and the interests of the Virginia and Truckee Railroad.

Senator John P. Jones, President Chester Arthur appointed Kinkead as governor of the new formed District of Alaska on July 4, 1884.

In the report he asked for establishment of a legal code and creation of a tax collection agency for the district, a boat to allow the governor to travel within Alaska, expanded financial aid, and initiation of new mail services.

He also had to deal with a rift between himself and influential Presbyterian missionary Sheldon Jackson, who differed with the governor on the trustworthiness of the district's mining interests.