Quick Facts
Biography
August Brentano (December 23, 1828 - November 2, 1886) was a New York City newspaper dealer who was born in Hohenems, Austria. He immigrated to New York in 1851 and started a business as a newspaper carrier. Before arriving in New York, he opened a large stand at the Revere House in Boston, Massachusetts. Brentano later ran a store at 636 Broadway. His business was significant because of its large circulation, varied distribution sites, and being among the first in the United States to import newspapers from London and other cities in England.
Expansion
From 1868 Brentano and his family worked at 39 Union Square, where their trade built a fine reputation. In 1877 Brentano sold his business interest in New York City to his nephews. They established additional newspaper businesses in Washington, D.C. and Chicago, Illinois, which were managed by August Brentano.
Death
He died in Chicago, Illinois, in 1886, having lived there since 1883. Brentano, who never married, was survived by three nephews, August, Arthur, and
Simon Brentano, all of them residing in New York City. Brentano's funeral a Jewish service, was carried out at the home of Mrs. Simon Brentano, at 12 Livingston Place. August Brentano was buried at Cypress Hills Cemetery in New York City.