Nicholas B. Brown

As printed in 1901

HON. NICHOLAS B. BROWN.

Nicholas B. Brown, deceased, was one of the honored pioneers and representative citizens of Cedar Rapids, where he made his home for forty years. He was born in Sussex county, New Jersey, July 10, 1814, and was a self-educated as well as a self-made man, having none of the school privileges and other advantages usually afforded the boys of the present day. His father was a miller and as a young man our subject followed the millwright's trade, which he acquired in Pennsylvania.

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Mr. Brown was united in marriage. May 8, 1852, with Miss Susan Emery, who was born at Demons Ferry, Pike county, Pennsylvania, August 19, 1824, a daughter of Nathan and Cornelia (Broadhead) Emery. Her ancestors came from England at an early day and settled in Pennsylvania, where her parents always made their home. The father died there at the age of ninety, the mother at the age of eighty years. Of their eleven children, four are still living, namely: Oliver and Mrs. Brown, both residents of Cedar Rapids; and Mrs. H. E. Higley and Miss M. E. Emery, both of Florida.

When Mr. Brown brought his bride to Cedar Rapids it was but a small village, and she has watched with interest its growth and advancement. Five children were born to them, but three died in early childhood. Those living are Nathan E., who is married and resides in Cedar Rapids, and Harry T., who lives with his mother.

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Mrs. Brown received a good academic education and prior to her marriage successfully engaged in teaching school in Pennsylvania for a number of years. As a stranger she accompanied her husband to their new home in Cedar Rapids, but at once adapted herself to the place, and became interested in the welfare of the community. Since his death she has erected a very large modern brick residence on the site of their old home, and has ably managed her business affairs. He left considerable property, all of which lies within the city limits. Although quite advanced in years Mrs. Brown is still well preserved. She, too, is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, to wliich she is a liberal contributor, and formerly took an active part in church and charitable work. She is beloved by a large circle of friends and acquaintances, and is held in high regard by all who know her.

As printed in Biographical records of Linn County, Iowa .. (1901). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.