THOMAS BROWN, proprietor of a clothing store in Bridgton, Me., was born July 14,
1834, in Berry Brow, near Huddersfield, Yorkshire, England, being one of a family of ten children (four boys and
six girls), born to George and Martha Brown. Mr. Brown may be justly regarded as a selfmade man, having begun life
with no capital save his willing heart, courageous spirit, and strong hands. By persevering industry and thrift
he has gradually climbed the ladder of success, and has an assured position among the prosperous business men of
Cumberland County.
At an early age Mr. Brown began working in a woollen-mill, remaining in the country of his birth until 1863, when
he sailed on the steamer "Bohemian" for America. He first found employment in a wollen-mill at Dexter,
this State, remaining there ten months, and going thence to Lisbon, and subsequently to Sabattusville, where he
secured the position of overseer of the mill. Five years later Mr. Brown removed to Portland, in which city he
lived a year and a half, coming thence to Bridgton in 1871. The following two years he worked in the Forest Mills,
after which he made a trip to his native land, staying four months with his relatives and friends. On his return
to this State Mr. Brown became overseer in the Lisbon Falls mills, resigning that position at the end of five years
to accept a similar office in the Forest Mills of Bridgton. In 1879 he started in business on his own account,
opening the clothing store which he has since conducted with signal success, having built up a large and lucrative
trade.
On December 24, 1869, the union of Mr. Brown with Miss Harriet, daughter of David Hopkins, was solemnized. Mrs.
Brown is a native of Vermont, in which State she was reared and educated. She is a conscientious member of the
Baptist church. Socially, Mr. Brown belongs to the Knights of Pythias. In religion he is a Universalist, and in
politics a Democrat.
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