Mr. Jacob Masemer and his fine colt
Source:
Tim Clem
Information about this photo:
This photograph was originally owned by Larry Clem and was loaned by him in November, 1995 to the Warren Sentinel where it appeared in the “Out of the attic” section.
The location where this photo was taken cannot be confirmed for certain but the bridge in the background suggests that it was in the center of Browntown, on the east side of Gooney Run.
The date, is most likely between 1890 and 1910.
Jacob Masemer was born in Hanover, York County, Pennsylvania in July 1852 and moved to Browntown in 1871 as a single man. He died at his home in Browntown in October, 1925, at the age of 73. His occupation is listed on his death certificate simply as “contractor”, but during his life he was also one of Browntown’s most well-known farmers, builders, and merchants. He was married three times and had eight children.
Although Jacob Masemer’s name is unfamiliar to most of the current inhabitants of Browntown, he could accurately be described as the person who built Browntown. His legacy can be seen in the many historic buildings in the village of Browntown, including the 1907 school building (now the BCCA), the Union and Baptist churches, the O.J. Rudacille store and the beautiful “Creekside” house at the corner of Smith Run and Gooney Manor Loop.