James Brayley, born 3 March 1825 in England, was married to Druscilla Tickett of the USA. They had at least two children: Edgar, who was lost on the "Minnie" in 1886, and Nettie, born ca. 1865 in the United States. They came to White Head Island off Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick, around the year 1880.
James Brayley began business at Gull Cove on White Head Island as a merchant and shopkeeper selling fishing supplies and general goods. James was appointed a justice of the peace in 1881. The local newspaper reported: "The new squire looks robust but of solemn countenance--seemingly feeling the heavy duty of the magistrate office." He was remembered as a colourful local character. A customer once asked Mr. Brayley if he had gallon jugs. He replied, "I've got gallon jugs of all sizes." A female customer looking for hosiery asked, "How high are they?" Mr. Brayley replied, "Lady, they go clear to your ass." After the store at Gull Cove burnt down, he moved to North Head, where he died in 1917.
Published
Formerly held as MG3 Business Journals box 1 / files 2 and 3
Title based on contents.
This fonds consists of two record books kept by James Brayley. There are journals from the Fisherman's Supply Store on White Head Island, 1889-1894, which record the customers' names, items purchased, and the cost of each item.
Donated by Foster Greenlaw.
This fonds was donated to the Archives by Foster Greenlaw, who purchased it at an auction in Amherst, Nova Scotia, around 1987.
See MG65 McLaughlin Bros. Store fonds for more record books with customers, items, and prices listed for 1909-1911 from Seal Cove, Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick.