Career
He was mayor of Hamilton, Ontario in 1849. Born in England, little is known of the life of Distin. From 1849 until 1853 he was chairman of the Board of Trustees for Common Schools and in that capacity he presided at the opening of Central School 2 May 1853.
A supporter of Sir Allan MacNab he is believed to have lived on King Street West, until his death in 1858.