August Brentano

August Brentano was born on December 23, 1828, in Hohenems, Austria. He immigrated to the United States in 1851.

Brentano 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

As of 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.

Brentano's (bookstore)

In 1853, "Brentano's" independent bookstore started as a newsstand in front of the New York Hotel. In 1883, the first branch opened in Washington, D.C. In 1884, a second branch was opened in Chicago.