My Genealogy Hound

SAMUEL G. BRAINERD was formerly a worthy representative of the intelligence, integrity and moral worth of the people of Pettis County. He was born in Rome, N. Y., November 27, 1835, and was the eldest son and second child born to Jeremiah B. and Laura (Gates) Brainerd, also natives of the Empire State, and of English ancestry.

The paternal grandfather, Samuel G. Brainerd, was a contractor on the Erie Canal during its construction, and rode on the first boat that plied those waters. His namesake, our subject, received his education in the public schools of his native city, and during vacations spent his time on his father’s farm near that city. In 1870 he came to Missouri, engaging in the boot and shoe business in St. Louis, and becoming one of the most valued traveling salesmen of the renowned firm of Claflin & Allen. He then left the road and became general manager of their factory, now known as the Peters’ Shoe Company, remaining in their employ until the time of his decease, which occurred December 6, 1892. In the mean time he had purchased a fine tract of land in Pettis County, on which his widow is residing at the present time.

S. G. Brainerd was joined in marriage, February 3, 1864, to Miss Azubah, daughter of Ives and Juline (Humestine) Gates, also natives of New York State. They trace their ancestry back to prominent people in England, and were also well connected in the Empire State. Mrs. Brainerd was born in Rome, N. Y., and was there educated. By her marriage with our subject there was born one son, Charles W., who is now one of the leading salesmen in the store in which his honored father was engaged, but which is now known as the Peters’ Shoe Company. This young gentleman, who has a rich and well cultivated voice, has an enviable reputation as a noted vocalist, having studied under some of the best teachers. His musical education was completed in the Waldon Conservatory of Music of St. Louis, in which city he is well known socially.

Mrs. Brainerd has under her control one hundred and seventy acres, well cultivated and bearing a good line of substantial and necessary buildings of modern construction. She is a very business-like and progressive lady, and under her supervision there has been planted an apple orchard of fifty-five acres. By observation and practical experience in farming she has become well informed on all subjects relating to her business and is meeting with remarkable success in this vocation. She is very highly esteemed by all who are so fortunate as to make her acquaintance, and is a devoted member of the Congregational Church, attending the church at Green Ridge.

In social affairs our subject was a Mason of high standing, being a member of Occidental Chapter No. 185, of St. Louis. Mrs. Brainerd is a charter member of Occidental Chapter No. 185 of the Eastern Star, of St. Louis.