An Illustrated History of the State of Washington, by Rev. H.K. Hines, D.D., The Lewis Publishing Co., Chicago, IL., 1893, page 382 FRITZ BROWN, one of the well-known and respected citizens of Washougal, was born in Germany, April, 4, 1828, a son of John P. and Margaret Brown. Fritz, the youngest of seven children -- four sons and three daughters -- was apprenticed to learn the painter's trade after completing his education, and for many years followed the various branches of the business, sign work and ornamental paper hanging having been his specialties. In 1847 he came to America, and for the following nineteen years, was engaged as a journeyman in New York. In 1870, via the Panama route, Mr. Brown removed to California, but, after following his trade in San Francisco four years, he located in Portland, Oregon, and in 1880 came to Washougal, Clarke county, Washington. He soon afterward erected the Brown Hotel, better known as the Washougal Park Hotel, which contains a band stand, pavilion, and numerous grottos and arbors for the entertainment of visitors and pleasure-seekers during the summer season. The grounds surrounding the hotel contain beautiful shade and ornamental trees, and this is one of the most inviting retreats in this section of the State. Mr. Brown conducted this well-known resort from the time of inception until recently, when he rented it to Rudolph Surber, the present proprietor. In addition to controlling the above property, Mr. Brown is also engaged in fruit culture, owns the wharf and warehouse at the steamer lauding, is a real-estate dealer and Notary Public, was Constable of township No. 2 for a period of sixteen years, and is well and favorably known throughout the community as a worthy and progressive citizen. Mr. Brown was married in New York, but his wife died December 11, 1891, leaving two children: Frankie and Fritz. In political matters, our subject is an active and progressive Democrat. He takes an active interest in school and all other public work pertaining to the welfare and development of Clarke county. Submitted to the WA. Bios Project in September 2003 by Jeffrey L. Elmer * * * * Notice: These biographies were transcribed for the Washington Biographies Project. Unless otherwise stated, no further information is available on the individual featured in the biographies.