Alameda County Biographies

JAMES A. BREWER

Transcribed by Kathy Sedler

This file is part of the California Genealogy & History Archives http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~cagha/index.htm

 

	Was born in Oneida County, New York, November 29, 1834, where he received his schooling, 
and resided until the spring of 1852, being up to that time engaged in farming.  In the season 
just mentioned he turned towards the west, and, proceeding to Wisconsin, was there employed in 
the construction of the railroad between Janesville and Monroe.  At the end of eighteen months 
Mr. Brewer removed to Kansas, and there maintained a domicile until starting for California.  
In March, 1856, he essayed the arduous journey across the plains with horse-teams, and, coming 
direct to Alameda County, located at Washington Corners in July, 1856.  Here he engaged in 
farming, an occupation he has since followed at that place.  During his residence in Kansas Mr. 
Brewer held the office of County Surveyor of Atchison County, which position he held until 
leaving for the Pacific Coast.  Married, 11th of October, 1866, Mrs. Maria Ann (widow of J. R. 
McDavid, who was a well-known farmer of Washington Township, died June 21, 1861, and left four 
children, Volunia A., Julia L., Troy C., and John R.), and has two children, viz.:  James M. 
and Henry C.

History of Alameda County, California�, Oakland, M.W. Wood Publ., 1883, p. 854