James M. Brown

James M. Brown is a retired farmer living in the town of Wallkill, where he was born in 1831. He was a son of John Brown, Jr., and Rachel (Coleman) Brown, both of whom were natives of the same town, and who here spent their entire lives. The father was quite prominent in his day, ranking among the best farmers of his town, and served his fellow-citizens as Supervisor for a number of years. He died many years ago, loved and respected by all. His good wife preceded him to the better world several years.

The subject of this sketch attended the district schools as opportunity was afforded him in early life, and was reared on the farm, spending many years of his life in agricultural pursuits. For about twenty-five years, however, he was engaged as a drover, in which he was fairly successful. In January, 1895, he retired from active business, and is now spending his days quietly upon his beautiful farm, which consists of fifty acres of finely improved land, on which are model, substantial farm buildings. While carrying on farming to a limited extent, his attention has been principally given to the milk business.

In 1872 Mr. Brown was united in marriage with Miss Mary J. Mackison, a native of Orange County, and a daughter of William and Margaret (Wilson) Mackison, who were likewise natives of Orange County. Mrs. Brown is a member of the Presbyterian Church at Scotchtown, and takes great interest in all religious and charitable work. In politics Mr. Brown is a stalwart Republican, with which party he has been connected since its organization, but has never had any desire for official position. His business interests have been such in the past that he has had little time to devote to anything else. However, he tries to keep posted on current events, especially in the political history of his state and nation.