My Genealogy Hound

HENRY J. BROWN, dealer in boots and shoes, West Milton; was born in Lancaster Co., Penn. Jan. 29, 1829, and is a son of John Brown, a native of the same place, who lived, died and is buried in the place of his nativity. He was the father of ten children, of whom seven are living. Henry’s boyhood days were spent in the village, and, at the age of 16, he began serving a regular apprenticeship, which occupied two years of his time. In 1849, he came to Ohio, and located in Gettysburg, in Darke Co., in which place he prosecuted his trade for a while, and was also engaged with his brother William in painting. He came to West Milton in the spring of 1850, and here has since done business; he carries a full stock of boots and shoes, for ladies, gentlemen and children’s wear. He deals in the best of goods, and his long residence and popular habits command for him a full share of the public patronage. For sixteen years he has held the office of Corporation Treasurer, and has also been a member of the School Board. Thus we see that his townsmen have confidence in his executive ability. March 2, 1852, he was married to Melissa Everett, by whom he had three children, viz., Emma C., Elmira and Charles W. Mrs. Brown departed this life May 15, 1863, aged about 39 years. May 20, 1865, Mr. Brown was again married, to Mary J. Wilson, of Montgomery Co., by whom he has had one child, viz., Harry E.