John S. Van Winkle

John S. Van Winkle (March 8, 1829 – October 28, 1888) was an American attorney and politician who served as Secretary of State of Kentucky from 1866 to 1867. He served as a member of the Kentucky General Assembly in 1861.

Early life and education
John S. Van Winkle was born on March 8, 1829, in Wayne County, Kentucky, to Micajah Van Winkle and Mary Phillips. He received his early education in Monticello, Kentucky. At age eighteen, he found work as a salesman in a store. He attended law school at the University of Louisville. Van Winkle married Mary Buster on January 21, 1858, the couple had no children. After Mary's death, he married Louise Dillon, they had 7 children.

Career
In 1854, Van Winkle was admitted to the Kentucky bar, and began practice as a lawyer in Wayne County. In 1861, he was elected a member of the Kentucky General Assembly. In 1863, he moved to Danville, Kentucky.

On May 24, 1866, Van Winkle was appointed Secretary of State of Kentucky by Governor Thomas E. Bramlette, to fill the unexpired term of his brother Ephraim L. Van Winkle. After he left office, he resumed his work as a lawyer in Danville.

Death
Van Winkle died on October 28, 1888, at the age of 59, in Boyle County, Kentucky. He was interred at Bellevue Cemetery in Danville, Kentucky.